SECOND CYCLE STUDIES (MASTER STUDIES)

Second cycle studies (Master’s studies) constitute the second level of higher education in accordance with the Bologna Process and the applicable Law on Higher Education. They enable students to deepen the knowledge acquired during the first cycle and to develop advanced competencies for professional advancement, employment in more complex positions, and/or the continuation of academic development, including enrollment in third cycle studies.

Upon completion of second cycle studies, the academic title of Master, with an indication of the profession in the relevant field of education, is awarded.

Second cycle studies are conducted following completion of first cycle studies, last one or two years, and are valued at a minimum of 60 ECTS credits or a minimum of 120 ECTS credits, in such a manner that, in total with the first cycle of studies, they amount to at least 300 ECTS credits. An exception is made for integrated studies, which are conducted as a single study program encompassing both the first and second cycles of studies and are valued at a minimum of 300 ECTS credits, as well as integrated studies in Medicine and Dentistry, which are valued at a minimum of 360 ECTS credits.

Information regarding enrollment in second cycle studies is published through the Call for Enrollment issued by the University for each academic year on its official website. An overview of second cycle study programs is available on the University’s website, as well as on the websites of individual faculties/academies.

A Master’s thesis represents an independent work of the student demonstrating the ability to apply acquired knowledge, use relevant literature and methodology, and critically analyze a problem within the profession/field of science. The preparation of the final Master’s thesis is mandatory in the second cycle of studies.

The rules governing studies in the second cycle, the preparation of the final (Master’s) thesis, and other relevant matters are regulated by the Rulebook on Studies in the Second Cycle at the University of East Sarajevo (October 12, 2023), the Rulebook on Supplements to the Rulebook on Studies in the Second Cycle at the University of East Sarajevo (June 7, 2024), and the Rulebook on Amendments and Supplements to the Rulebook on Studies in the Second Cycle at the University of East Sarajevo (September 22, 2025).

The Ministry of Scientific and Technological Development and Higher Education of the Republic of Srpska annually publishes Calls for Scholarships for students of all three cycles of studies, including the second cycle. In addition, a particularly significant source of support is the “Dr. Milan Jelić” Fund, which issues a call for the second and third cycles of studies (the conditions, number, and amount of scholarships depend on the call for the specific academic year). For example, for the 2025/26 academic year, the scholarship for the second cycle amounts to BAM 5,000 (allocated by scientific fields).

Furthermore, the competent Ministry also publishes a call for co-financing scientific research projects, which may be used for the preparation of a Master’s thesis. Detailed information on application procedures, required documentation, as well as a list of previously approved national scientific research projects by constituent units, is available on the University’s website.