Cross-Border Migration, Governance and Security
Migration is one of the defining challenges of our time. It shapes politics, economies, cultures, and the daily lives of millions of people across the globe. In Europe especially, it is a topic that sparks strong opinions and heated debates. Governments search for workable solutions, communities deal with social and cultural change, and the media presents us with stories of both opportunity and crisis. For students interested in how societies and governments respond to this complexity, this minor offers a chance to study migration from multiple angles and to actively contribute to solutions.
Minor content
The minor Cross-border Migration, Governance & Security provides a broad and practice-oriented exploration of migration as a societal, political and legal challenge. You will gain insight into the dilemmas faced by governments, the tensions between national and European agendas, and the ethical and security aspects of cross-border movement. At the same time, you will strengthen essential skills such as research, intercultural communication, negotiation, project management and leadership. The minor is taught entirely in English, making it accessible to students from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds. A C1 level of English is recommended.
Structure of the minor
The minor combines academic learning with professional practice. You will explore migration from different perspectives:
- Society & ethics: How do you develop your own moral compass in this debate?
- Policy & governance: What roles do national and EU institutions play, and how do their measures align—or clash?
- Security: How are borders managed, and how are issues such as trafficking, smuggling or terrorism linked to migration?
- Law: Which legal frameworks apply, and how do they interact with human rights and international law?
The programme runs across two periods. In the first block you study global perspectives on migration, while the second block focuses on the EU dimension. Courses include a knowledge programme, two research projects for real-life clients, skills modules in negotiation and project management, training in ethics and conflict, and a volunteering project. Excursions to relevant institutions may also be part of the programme.
Assessment takes different forms, including knowledge tests, oral examinations and portfolio-based evaluation. This variety ensures that both your academic understanding and professional competences are tested in ways that mirror real-life professional practice
Study features
Exams, assessments and assignments, mix of group and individual work Grading system: mix of: 1 – 10 / pass or fail.
Recommended knowledge:
As the course is entirely in English, a minimum level of English at C1 level is required. Some experience in (practical) research is also an asset. This minor is intended for students who have a particular interest in one of the big themes of today’s world. A background in public administration, law, security studies, political science or international affairs is useful. This minor teaches you to look at the topic of migration from a variety of perspectives and supports a multidisciplinary approach to assist in solving existing or arising challenges in different aspects of society.
