Program Overview

Introduction to the University Program

The University of Zagreb offers a specialist interdisciplinary study program in "Preparation and Implementation of EU Projects." This program aims to provide competitive and applicable knowledge and skills to educate and empower participants for the quality preparation and effective implementation of development projects and strategies financed by the European Union and other international and national sources.

Program Details

• Program Title: Preparation and Implementation of EU Projects
• Academic Title: University Specialist for EU Projects
• Duration: One year, consisting of two semesters
• ECTS Credits: 60
• Language: The program is conducted in English, but participants are expected to have an active knowledge of English.

Objectives

The primary objective of the study program is to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for the preparation and implementation of EU-funded projects, focusing on regional development, social innovations, and social cohesion. The program aims to enhance the participants' understanding of EU institutions, policies, and funding opportunities, as well as their ability to manage and evaluate projects effectively.

Target Group

The program is designed for employees from the economy, state administration bodies, local and regional self-government units, public companies, civil society organizations, consultants, and unemployed highly educated citizens who want to enhance their competencies and become more competitive in the labor market.

Key Elements of Innovation

• Practical Application: The program focuses on the practical application of acquired knowledge and skills.
• Project Proposal: Participants are required to prepare a quality project proposal as part of their coursework.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: The program adopts an interdisciplinary structure, emphasizing a holistic approach to development that considers economic, social, cultural, environmental, and other factors.
• Interactive Learning: The program features interactive lectures, consultative-instructive teaching, and continuous mentoring.
• Study Trips: Participants will have the opportunity to participate in study trips abroad.

Competencies Acquired

Upon completing the program, participants will acquire competencies in:

• Knowledge of EU institutions and their impact on development policies and financing
• Understanding of new development themes significant for regional, local, urban, and rural development in Croatia and the EU
• Skills in preparing and evaluating project proposals
• Ability to manage projects and apply knowledge in practice
• Understanding of strategic development programming and planning
• Knowledge of creative methods in solving problems of local, urban, and regional development

Lecturers

The program is taught by professors and experts from the University of Zagreb, including the Faculty of Law, Faculty of Economics, Faculty of Civil Engineering, and the Institute for Development and International Relations, as well as guest lecturers from other academic institutions, government bodies, public agencies, and the private sector.

Program Structure

The program consists of two semesters, with a combination of compulsory and elective courses. The first semester includes courses on EU institutions and financing, cohesion policy, strategic programming, and a practical workshop on project proposal preparation. The second semester offers courses on project management, urban development, creative industries, and sustainable development, along with a final project under the guidance of a mentor.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a bachelor's or master's degree from a recognized university and an active knowledge of English. Applicants with a professional diploma may also be considered, subject to additional requirements.

Tuition Fee

The tuition fee for the program is 5,000 euros, payable in installments. A limited number of scholarships may be available for participants from underdeveloped regions of Croatia.

Conclusion

The "Preparation and Implementation of EU Projects" program at the University of Zagreb offers a unique opportunity for individuals to acquire the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary for successful project management and development in the context of EU funding. With its interdisciplinary approach, interactive learning methods, and focus on practical application, this program is designed to meet the needs of a wide range of professionals and contribute to the enhancement of regional development capacities in Croatia and beyond.