Master Programs at Ilia State University

Ilia State University offers the following Master Degree Programs:

Master Program in Public Administration
International Relations and Regional Studies
Sociology
Social Work
Education Administration
Education Research
Basic/Secondary School Teacher 
School Psychologist, Psychological Consultancy
Theory and Practice of Inclusive Education
Medieval Studies
Archaeology
Christian Theology
Comparative Typological Study of Languages and Pragmatics of Translation
Anglistics
German Philology
Romanic Studies
Applied Foreign Languages and International Negotiations/Economics
Comparative Literary Criticism
Biophysics
Experimental High Energy Physics
Modern Mathematics and their Application
Theoretical Physics
Geosciences
Soviet and Post Soviet Research
Journalism
Anthropology of Politics
Integrative Neurosciences
Molecular Sciences
Ecology
Forest Resources
Natural Resources



Master Program in Public Administration

The Master Program in Public Administration (MPA) is aimed to prepare a new generation of political decision-makers and analysts who will be able to deal with contemporary complex challenges in the public policy field. The program is highly practice-oriented and enables students to learn from real-life case studies, practical exercises and internship opportunities. The program is mainly focused on public, non-profit and non-governmental sectors.

The MPA program at Ilia State University (ISU) has been launched in close cooperation with the School of Public and International Affairs (SIPA) of Columbia University (United States of America). The partnership has been established under a USAID-funded Policy, Advocacy and Civil Society Development in Georgia (G-PAC) project, being implemented by East-West Management Institute. Collaboration of ISU with Columbia University gives students a unique chance to receive a high quality education, engage in diverse activities with SIPA professors and gain a compound practical experience.

The program offers students a wide range of comprehensive resources with independent study space, separate classrooms and computer lab. It also has a free access to the ISU research institutions and the university library, with new sources relevant specifically to the MPA curriculum.

Contact:

Leading professor
Mr. David Aprasidze
Dean, School of Graduate Studies
Ilia State University
E-mail: david_aprasidze@iliauni.edu.ge


International Relations and Regional Studies

Ilia State University Master’s program in International Relations and Regional Studies aims to prepare a new generation of  researchers, who in the context  of international and regional field, will focus on specific problems in Europe and the Caucasus by using contemporary  research methodologies and interdisciplinary approaches. Furthermore, the program will support the promotion of democratic values in the region and will assist young researchers in forming professional networks on regional and international levels.

The program focuses on the history and culture of Europe and the Caucasus, as well as on analyses of current political problems using political and social science discourse.  Students are prepared to be specialists and future researchers in the fields of European and Caucasian regional studies.

The International Relations and Regional Studies program succeeds in producing qualified graduates in both the academic and professional sphere. Graduates of the program are well prepared for careers in governmental and non-governmental sectors and in international organizations.

Students involved in the program will have the opportunity to use the vast resources offered by the ISU School of Graduate Studies and International School for Caucasus studies, including library, electronic bases and research centers.

Contact:
Leading professor
Prof. Ghia Nodia
International School for Caucasus Studies
Ilia State University
Email: ghian@iliauni.edu.ge


Sociology

The goal of the Masters Program in Sociology is to develop research activities in the study of human social institutions and social relationships. It also it aims to produce a new generation of young researchers.  A focus on the social, political, economic and cultural aspects of the society is central to the curriculum.  The following areas of research are at the center of the Program: Caucasian studies, secularization studies and value studies.  

The Masters Program in Sociology produces professionals who are highly competitive on the labor market. After completion of the master’s degree program, graduates will have an opportunity to pursue their career in public and private universities, research institutes, state organizations, international organizations and the private sector.

Students involved in the Master’s degree Program in Sociology will benefit from the University research centers, institutes and laboratories, such as: Interdisciplinary Center for Social Research, Security and Politics Research Center, Liberty Institute, International School for Caucasian Studies and The Sociology Laboratory.

Contact:
Leading professor
Associate Prof.  Levan Tarkhnishvili
Sociology Laboratory
Ilia State University
Email: levan_tarkhnishvili@iliauni.edu.ge  levan@bcg.ge   


Social Work

The aim of the Master’s Degree Program in Social Work is to produce effective professionals, thus providing a better quality expert in the field of social work service. Education in this field gives students the opportunity to integrate  theoretical knowledge with practical experience.

Students in this program prepare to be capable social workers with significant knowledge of social work perspectives and program development and the ability to work with a diverse client base to provide quality assistance. Students will learn these skills by: research, assessment-analysis, intervention, and monitoring.

After completion of the master program, graduates will have opportunity to pursue their career in government and non-government sectors as well as various social programs.

Contact:
Leading professor
Associate Prof.  Shorena Sadzaglishvili
Institute of Knowledge-based Economy
Ilia State University
Email: shorena_sadzaglishvili@iliauni.edu.ge


Education Administration

The Masters Degree Program in Education Administration aims to prepare and equip future academic leaders with modern knowledge, skills and vital values to effectively lead and manage education in a variety of organizations.  The Program is focused on providing students with practical skills and applicable knowledge.  Through readings and discussions, students develop leadership qualities and gain research skills in the field of education. The courses are based on modern content and teaching methodologies. Students share their own experiences and knowledge through diaries by using modern technology.  Courses are prepared through cooperation between Georgian and American professors. Students will also have an opportunity to communicate with American professors through public lectures and meetings.

The Education Administration Masters Degree Program was created in the framework of The USAID Education Management project implemented in cooperation with Georgian Ministry of Education and Science and University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA).

The program results in a Master of Arts degree in Education Administration. 

Contact:
Leading professor
Assistant Prof. Simon Janashia
Ilia State University
Email: simon_janashia@iliauni.edu.ge


Education Research

The Education Research Program aims to prepare research specialists in the field of education. Graduates will have interdisciplinary knowledge, acquire research skills in the field of education and social sciences and be able to plan and conduct a variety of surveys in the field of education.

Graduates of the Program can find employment with various research projects and organizations, and will have sufficient knowledge working at the institutions defining and implementing educational policies.

The program results in a Master of Arts degree in Education Research.

Contact:
Leading professor
Assistant Prof. Simon Janashia
Ilia State University
Email: simon_janashia@iliauni.edu.ge


Basic/Secondary School Teacher
(Concentrations: Georgian Language and Literature, Mathematics, Social Sciences, Natural Science, Foreign Languages, Applied Arts and Music)

The Program aims to prepare basic/secondary school teachers according to teacher certification standards. The students will acquire theory required for a teaching profession and gain practical skills, as well as learn how to use technology in the educational process. The graduate will be a teacher–researcher having theoretical knowledge and practical skills to conduct basic quantitative and qualitative research and be able to integrate theoretical knowledge with teaching practices and to analyze this experience.

The graduates can find employment at basic /secondary schools as a teacher (after successful passing of official teacher certification exams), at teacher training centers, and education resource centers.

The Program leads to one of the following degrees:
M.A.  in Education -Basic/ Secondary School Teacher of Georgian Language and Literature
M.A.  in Education -Basic/ Secondary School Teacher of Mathematics
M.A.  in Education -Basic/ Secondary School Teacher of Social Sciences
M.A.  in Education -Basic/ Secondary School Teacher of Natural Sciences
M.A. in Education -Basic/ Secondary School Teacher of English Language
M.A.  in Education -Basic/ Secondary School Teacher of French Language
M.A.  in Education -Basic/ Secondary School Teacher of German Languages
M.A.  in Education -Basic/ Secondary School Teacher of Applied Arts and Music


School Psychologist, Psychological Consultancy

The Program aims to prepare school psychologists and psychological consultants according to modern standards and local needs. The Program is directed towards personal growth, maintaining psychological health and raising the quality of life. The program is built on holistic principles and a bio-psycho-social–political approach to view each individual in a larger context.

The graduate can go on to pursue his/her studies at doctoral level, work at schools, psychosocial consulting centers and organizations of medical profile, at organizations and businesses with the goal of improving individuals quality of life, have a private practice in consulting patients with psychological problems, consult groups, cooperate with the executive and legislative agencies responsible for citizens healthcare, personal resources development and increasing quality of life.

The program results in a Masters of Arts degree in Psychology/School Psychology, Psychological Consultant.

Contact:
Leading professor
Prof. Ketevan Makashvili
Institute of Applied Psychology
Ilia State University
E-mail: ketevan_makhashvili@iliauni.edu.ge


Theory and Practice of Inclusive Education


The Master’s Degree Program in The Theory and Practice of Inclusive Education aims to support inclusion of students with special needs at basic/secondary public schools by using the knowledge and experience existing in the field of inclusive education. Graduates will gain a profound knowledge in the field of special education, using theory and practice. The program will demonstrate the importance of participation and cooperation of inclusive education specialist to improve the learning environment.

Graduates can find employment as inclusive education specialists at:
•    Inclusive kindergartens
•    Inclusive schools
•    Rehabilitation day centers
•    Specialized and Boarding schools

The program results in a Masters of Arts degree in Education.

Contact:
Leading professor
Prof. Makvala (Nana) Tsartsidze
Ilia State University
Email:  makvala_tsartsidze@iliauni.edu.ge


Medieval Studies

The Master’s Degree Program in Medieval Studies gives students an opportunity to research the period of the medieval age in great depth. The Program is interdisciplinary and aims to prepare highly qualified professionals in medieval studies.  Students will learn Georgian and European medieval ages history, philosophy, theology, literature, language and art history, analyze and research the medieval cultural heritage in general  and in regional context.

Graduates can be employed at educational and scientific-research institutions, museums, media and culture organizations.

The program results in a Masters of Arts degree in Medieval Studies

Contact:
Leading professor
Prof. Giga Zedania
Ilia State University
Email: giga_zedania@iliauni.edu.ge


Archaeology

The program aims to give in-depth, systematic knowledge  in archeology and general knowledge in the neighboring fields (art, religion, ethnography, history). Students will acquire research methods in archeology and create solid base for interpretation and analysis of research results.

Graduates can find employment at state, non- profit and private organizations, museums, cultural heritage protection organizations, etc.

The program results in a Master of Arts degree in Archaeology.

Contact:
Leading professor
Prof. Guram Kipiani
Ilia State University
Email: guram_kipiani@iliauni.edu.ge


Christian Theology

The Master’s Degree Program in Christian Theology aims to research, analyze and present certain theology issues, prepare researchers in the field of theology, study the issues connected with human history/cultural identity and modern life, Christianity and the role of religion in the modern world.

Graduates can pursue studies at PhD level and get involved in further scientific work, work as expert theologists, social workers and researchers. 

The program results in a Master of Arts degree in Theology.

Contact:
Leading professor
Assistant Prof. Kakhaber Kurtanidze
Ilia State University
Email: kakha_kurtanidze@iliauni.edu.ge


Comparative Typological Study of Languages and Pragmatics of Translation

The Master’s Degree Program in Comparative Typological Study of Languages and Pragmatics of Translation aims to teach linguistic theories and modern research methods in language studies. Students will acquire comparative typological research skills. The graduates can also obtain intercultural skills and become professional translators.

Graduates can find employment at scientific–research institutions, literature and translation associations, with media outlets (printed media, broadcast media), at educational institutes, and culture organizations (library, museum, publishing houses, magazine/journal editorial boards)

The program results in a Master of Arts degree in Philology.

Contact:
Leading professor
Prof. Shukia Apridonidze
Ilia State University
Email: shukia.apridonidze@iliauni.edu.ge


Anglistics

The Master’s Degree Program in Anglistics aims to prepare English philologists. Students will gain scientific research skills, and obtain specialized knowledge in English philology. Modern level philologist competencies are formed through achieving the following tasks:
•    Study philology as an interdisciplinary field;
•    Complete courses in linguistics, literature studies, cultural studies, translation theory and practice;
•    Acquire interdisciplinary research methods;
•    Become familiar with the usage of modern information technologies.

Graduates can find employment at higher educational institutions, work as a teacher of English language at basic/secondary public schools (after passing teacher certification exam), as a translator/interpreter in the relevant subject area, get involved at international political, economic, cultural  projects, work at various profile organizations where working language partially or entirely is in English.

The program results in a Master of Arts degree in Philology.

Contact:
Leading professor
Prof. Rezo Marsagishvili
Ilia State University
Email: rezo_marsagishvili@iliauni.edu.ge


German Philology

The Master’s Degree Program in German Philology aims to prepare specialists in German philology skills. Students will be involved in scientific research work. The program integrates adjacent philological disciplines (linguistics, literature and cultural studies), thus interdisciplinary methodological principle in teaching and research process is a priority and defines the program structure.

Graduates can find employment at international (Georgian– German) institutions and organizations, German language periodic publications editorial boards, publishing houses, advertising and tourist agencies, various profile organization press centers, international political, economic and cultural, humanitarian and other projects, German institutions and private foundations managed research projects.

The program results in a Master of Arts degree in Philology.

Contact:
Leading professor
Associate Prof. Levan Tsagareli
Ilia State University
Email: levan_tsagareli@iliauni.edu.ge


Romanic Studies

The Master’s Degree Program in Romanic Studies aims to prepare researchers of language, literature and culture of three countries (France, Italy, Spain) and gives an opportunity to conduct comparative analysis in these fields. Students will deepen their theoretical knowledge in the fields of language, literature, and culture, gain scientific research skills and become familiarized with modern research methodologies, interdisciplinary and inter paradigm approach to the research object. The program will give necessary skills to conduct comparative analysis and prepare students to pursue their studies at PHD level.

Graduates can find employment at humanitarian, scientific, and educational institutions, publishing houses, newspaper and journal editorial boards, arts and culture organizations. After passing teacher certification exams they can work as a teacher of one or more Roman languages at secondary schools. With sufficient language skills, graduates could also work as a translation/interpreter.

The program results in a Master of Arts degree in Philology (Romanic Studies)

Contact:
Leading professor
Prof.  Mzaro Dokhtourichvili
Ilia State University
Email: mzarodok@yahoo.fr


Applied Foreign Languages and International Negotiations/Economics (European-Russian-Oriental)

The Master’s Degree Program in Applied Foreign Languages and International Negotiations/Economics aims to prepare language specialists proficient in several European and/or Oriental languages gain specialized knowledge in the field of social sciences. The program gives students in-depth knowledge of two foreign languages (decided by skill and choice) and offers great depth in their selected field (economics, law or international relations). Students will gain familiarity with the modern trends in linguistics and interdisciplinary research methods.

The program is created in cooperation with TEMPUS project participant European partner institutions (Paul Valér Montpelier University, France, Brussels Free University, Erasmus Institute Brussels, Belgium) and  Ilia State University Faculty of Business and Law.

Graduates can find employment at national and international enterprises, institutions and organizations, at the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development, Ministry of Culture and  private firms.

The program results in a Master of Arts degree in Philology (Applied Foreign Languages).

Contact:
Leading professor
Prof.  Mzaro Dokhtourichvili
Ilia State University
Email: mzarodok@yahoo.fr


Comparative Literary Criticism

The Master’s Degree Program in Comparative Literary Criticism aims at giving students insight in comparative literary criticism and perfect students’ general knowledge of the subject area as well as increase competencies in scientific research work. Comparative literature criticism integrates philological (linguistics, European and Eastern languages, culturology) and adjacent disciplines (history of culture, sociology, art history and  philosophy) thus it incorporates an interdisciplinary method of teaching and learning.

Graduates can find employment at scientific-research institutions, educational and international organizations and institutions, various editorial boards, museums, advertising agencies, various profile press centers, international institutions and private foundation research projects.

The program results in a Master of Arts degree in Philology.

Contact:
Leading professor
Prof. Bela Tsipuria
Ilia State University
Email: bela_tsipuria@iliauni.edu.ge


Biophysics

Ilia State University Master’s Degree Program in Biophysics aims to equip its students with steady academic knowledge and skills. Most importantly, the program is geared towards helping the students develop into researchers able to contribute to the realm of international research in the field of Biophysics. The program puts a high priority on increasing students’ research capacity through a thorough introduction to research methodologies and active involvement in research projects. Skills and knowledge acquired throughout the program will provide the alumni with a strong academic background to further pursue their higher level academic studies and research in both the conventional areas of molecular biophysics and medical biophysics and in the modern areas of nanobiotechnology and environmental biotechnology.

The Master’s Degree Program in Biophysics offers a professional environment conducive to the development of solid academic background and considerable research capacities among students. Leading professors performing within the framework of the Institute of Applied Physics lead their students throughout academic courses as well as offer their guidance in students’ research projects. The university library and its electronic resources ensure the accessibility of the  most up-to-date professional literature in the field. Ongoing international projects GNSF/STCU #543/5002 Biosynthesis and Characterization of Ag and Au Nanoparticles (2009-2011) and STCU #4744 Methods of Nanoparticle Production Using Extremophiles implemented by the Institute of Applied Physics present an opportunity for students to apply their class-based knowledge in real-time experiments. 

Contact:
Leading professors:
Prof: Nunu Metreveli
Insitute of Applied Physics
Ilia State University
Email: nunu_metreveli@iliauni.edu.ge, nunumetreveli@yahoo.com
 

Experimental High Energy Physics

Ilia State University Master’s Degree Program in Experimental High Energy Physics is geared towards effectively addressing student’s aspirations to grow into independent researchers through rigorous academic coursework, provisions of a supportive environment and a focus on professional carrier development.  

The Master’s Program in Experimental High Energy Physics provides a corpus of theory courses that is built on up-to-date theoretical knowledge in the field. In addition, it introduces students to a special pool of research courses that give instruction on cutting-edge research methodology such as computer program-based data analysis and modeling. The program also prioritizes the development of students’ professional communication skills via application of modern technology.  

The program ensures an environment conducive to teaching, learning and research. It provide full access to the university library and its electronic resources. University computer labs, databases and relevant software facilitate student’ work both on and off campus. Particle registration laboratory specifically serves the programs needs to foster students’ research experience and data analysis skills. 

The program shapes its alumni’s potential to pursue their further academic studies and research at the doctoral level. The alumni will also have a strong professional capacity to become involved in the activities of various research institutions, centers and laboratories that focus on high energy physics and nuclear research. Additionally, the acquired competencies in computer technology application for research will equip students with a capacity to pursue their professional career. 
 
Contact:
Leading Professor
Iuri Midodashvili
Iuri Tevzadze
Institute of High Energy Physics
Ilia State University
Email: pavle_midodashvili@iliauni.edu.ge


Modern Mathematics and their Application

The Master’s Degree Program in Paradigms of Modern Mathematics and their Application creates program thoroughly focused on student’s academic studies as well as in research. In the area of academic studies, the program aims to introduce students to fundamental mathematical concepts and analytical methods. To this end, the program offers a selection of courses that steadily develop students’ knowledge of classical mathematics.  In the area of research, the program offers students the opportunity to enroll in special courses that are geared towards the application of mathematical analytical methods in research. Additionally, the program creates opportunities for students to become engaged in independent study classes, creating the necessary setting for the development of individual research projects.       

The faculty engaged in the program as well as the university services and facilities create an environment conducive to quality education process and research. The faculty members offer their assistance and guidance for students’ successful navigation throughout the program. The university libraries and full access to ISU electronic resources supplement the use of textbooks and professional literature in the field. The university computer labs support students in their academic and research efforts.

Contact:
Leading Professor
Giorgi Khimshiashvili
Fundamental and Interdisciplinary Mathematics Research Institute
Ilias State University
Email: giorgi.khimshiashvili@iliauni.edu.ge


Theoretical Physics (Elemental Particle Physics & Cosmology, Theoretical Astrophysics, Condensed Matter Physics)

The Ilia State University Master’s Degree Program in Theoretical Physics is geared towards developing its students into professional researchers in the fields of elemental particle physics and cosmology, theoretical astrophysics and condensed matter physics. The program ultimately aims at preparing its students for their prospective contribution into international research and studies in the field of theoretical physics. 

Pertinent to its curriculum, the program introduces its students to and develops their expertise in the fundamental issues of theoretical physics applied in the areas of elemental particle physics and cosmology, theoretical astrophysics and condensed matter physics. The program curriculum also allows the students to enhance their research capacity by duly bringing its focus on special research courses and individual research projects. 

The Master’s Degree Program in Theoretical Physics is supported by the university academic staff specializing in teaching and research in elemental particle physics and cosmology, theoretical astrophysics and condensed matter physics. Their guidance will allow students to navigate smoothly throughout the program and demonstrate achievements in individual academic courses and research projects. To secure quality teaching, learning and research, the program relies heavily on the university computer labs and their technical support. The university libraries and their electronic resources provide teaching and learning materials required for the study courses and research. Opportunities for participation in international research projects are an important asset of the program.  


Contact:
Leading Professor
George Machabeli
Institute of Theoretical Physics
Ilia State University
Email: g.machabeli@iliauni.edu.ge


Geosciences (Geophysics, Geology and Geography)

The Ilia State University Master’s Degree Programs in Geosciences aim at equipping students with both an academic and research background with which to promote their further development into researchers. Each of the master’s programs draws its focus on the subject courses of individual interest. Specifically, studying the Earth’s geological structure, its development and evolution, the Master Program in Geology brings geodynamics, tectonics, structural geology, engineering geology and the application of GIS technology to be forefront of academic studies. Focusing on the physical characteristics of the Earth’s structure, the processes of natural resource detection and natural disasters risk evaluation, the Master Program in Geophysics offers its students an opportunity to complete their course of studies in seismology, geodynamics, gravitation and magnetic fields of the Earth, geothermia and applied geophysics. Concentrating on the study of the outer layers of the Earth and their composition, the Master’s Degree Program in Geography requires courses dealing with physical geography, regional physical geography and paleogeography. Considering the individually designated academic interests, all the master programs converge in their effort to equip students with research skills through their enrollment in special research courses with special focus on research methods, data collection and analysis. The programs largely rely on expeditions and fieldwork to purposefully shape their students’ research capacity. 

The Master Programs in Geosciences are empowered by the university academic staff specializing in teaching and research in geophysics, geology and geography. Technological support is provided by the university and the Seismological Monitoring Information Center which offer their laboratory facilities for the study purposes. University and Seismological Monitoring Information Center libraries and their electronic resources provide the programs with necessary teaching and learning materials.        

Contact:
Leading Professor
Zurab Javakhishvili
Institute of Earth Sciences
Ilia State University
Email: zurabi_javakhishvili@iliauni.edu.ge


Soviet and Post Soviet Research

The Master’s Degree Program in Soviet and Post Soviet Research aims at training a new generation of professionals and researchers. It incorporates interdisciplinary research on institutes and identifies formation and changes in Soviet and Post Soviet Space.

The Program includes teaching of not only the main conditions and problems of the history, political system, economics and society functioning of the Soviet Union along with the modern western world but also the transformation conditions and problems of the Soviet political system, economic and society in the Post-Soviet time.

After graduation, students have the opportunity to continue study at the PhD level in the field of political and social sciences, or work at the public, social and private sectors and international organizations that need experts in social, political and economic issues in Post-Soviet countries.

Contact:
Leading professor
Prof. Sergo Ratiani
Institute of Genealogy of Modernity
Ilia State University
Email: sergo_ratiani@iliauni.edu.ge


Journalism

The aim of the Master’s Degree Program in Journalism is to educate well-trained and skillful journalists for their future work with the Georgian media. The program targets students for whom journalism is a well-considered choice.

Students learn the ways of information gathering and analysis, develop the skills of working with sources, structuring information of different length, attaining proficiency in writing, and developing research abilities. Students are trained through a hands-on approach and will be given the tools to master camera work and TV reporting, audio and radio specific expression forms, different principles of disseminating information and media management. The Program also proposes the study of journalism ethics in different countries and its development tendencies in Georgia. Each course within the program is developed as a separate certified course and therefore, anyone interested in a specific filed of journalism can applying to the program.

Graduates can work at any form of media, as well as in social, private or regional print press and broadcasters, in the press-office of any company or institution.

Contact:
Leading professor
Assistant Prof. Davit Paichadze
College of Arts and Sciences
Ilia State University
Email: david_paichadze@iliauni.edu.ge


Anthropology of Politics

The Master’s Degree Program in Anthropology of Politics aims at training students in anthropology of politics concentrating on the formation of power, interrelation of power and culture, and power and religion. The program strives at equipping students with a systematic knowledge in anthropology of politics, modern and traditional methods of cross-cultural and sociology research as well as develop professional research skills therefore aiding students in planning and carrying out researches independently.

After completing the full course of study, graduates will be able to work in social institutions and governmental structures, political organizations, scientific and education institutions.

Contact:
Leading professor
Prof. Giga Zedania
Institute of Genealogy of Modernity
Ilia State University
Email: giga_zedania@iliauni.edu.ge


Integrative Neurosciences

The Master’s Degree Program in Integrative Neurosciences aims at equipping students with a deep and systematic knowledge in neuroscience, by teaching them the methods used in neuroscience research, develop research and analytical skills and give thorough insight into the integrative function of the brain.

The program represents the first stage of the neuroscience research and scientific carrier, the successful completion of which students will have a deep and systematic knowledge of concepts in neuroscience and its newest theories.

After the full course of study graduates are able to work at reseach and higher education institutions, diagnostic centers of psycho-neurological clinics, in research sector of pharmaseutical companies or continue their educationa the PhD level.

Contact:
Leading professor
Prof. Nikoloz Oniani
Ilia State University
Email: nikoloz.oniani@iliauni.edu.ge


Molecular Sciences (Molecular Biosciences, Biopharmacy):

1)    Molecular Biosciences
The Master’s Degree Program in Molecular Biosciences aims to present biology as an extremely ordered process at the molecular level and teach students methods used in this sphere. Students learn the principles of recombinant DNA technology and protein engineering, as well as the so-called “omic” biology and different aspects of molecular neurobiology, pharmacology, toxicology and genetics.

After the full course of study, graduates will have the skills to work in any biology research institution and respective departments of universities; in diagnostic labs of medical, agricultural or criminal research labs.

Contact:
Leading professor
Prof. Davit Mikeladze
Institute of Chemical Biology
Ilia State University
Email: davit_mikeladze@iliauni.edu.ge

2)    Biopharmacy
The Master’s Degree Program in Biopharmacy aims at equipping students with the knowledge of fundamental principles of modern cell and molecular pharmacology including: the basis of choice of medications, target structures and adaptive response to medications, biotransformative processes of medications in body, molecular and genetic aspects of treatment, as well as modern molecular biological and biochemical methods. Additionally, students will deepen their understanding of molecular biology and biochemistry. Research interests of the program cover possibilities such as creating new treatment means, researching mechanisms of their action and their use in practice.

After the completion of the full course of study, graduates will be able to use acquired knowledge in different academic, state and industrial institutions, as well as in private sector: in pharmaceutical companies, medication quality control labs, treatment, sanitary and epidemiological and disease control institutions. Graduates can also continue their education at the PhD level.

Contact:
Leading professor
Prof. Revaz Solomonia
Institute of Chemical Biology
Ilia State University
Email: revaz_solomonia@iliauni.edu.ge


Ecology

The Master Degree Program in Ecology (ME) aims to equip students with deep knowledge of modern ecology concepts, present the state of ecology science, concentrate on important issues and problems and their solutions, as well as how to study ecological and evolutionary science using mathematical, computer and molecular genetic methods, how to formulate scientific research questions and plan experiments. Additionally, the program strives at providing students with systematic knowledge of flora and fauna of the Caucasus and the world. Students will learn methods of planning protected territories, spice conservation and sustainable land usage.

Graduates can pursue their carrier in: governmental and non-governmental organizations working on protection and rational utilization of natural resources – national parks, forestry, fishing and hunting management, state agencies, national and international environment protection organizations, as experts in ecology in national and international companies and firms, institutions working on animal and plant conservation – zoos, botanical gardens, scientific institutions – universities, research institutes and labs and in case of particular success, continue their education at a PhD level in Georgia or abroad.

Contact:
Leading professor
Prof. David Tarkhnishvili
Institute of Ecology
Ilia State University
Email: david_tarkhnishvili@iliauni.edu.ge

Forest Resources

The international and interdisciplinary Master Degree Programs in Forestry (MSc) and Sustainable Forest Management (MBA) aim at developing advanced academic and professional knowledge and skills in forest-related subject matters. The programs are strongly cooperating in the international context, offering interesting perspectives for the proactive student. Theory and practice will be conveyed in the relevant international, regional and local contexts. The highly diverse mountain and lowland forest ecosystems context of Georgia and the Caucasus will serve as a wonderful ground for teaching and research.
The programs cover disciplines in sustainable forest management and certification, history, law and policies, ecosystems ecology and site appraisal, forest assessment and monitoring, silviculture and forest protection, forest operations, forest timber and non-timber products and processing, wildlife management, hunting and fishing but also statistics, GIS, natural resources economics and other communicational and methodological specialities. Participants will develop advanced judgement, and capability in preparing scientific studies, policy and project reporting, assessment, monitoring and hands-on management.

Master graduates will be prepared to successfully work and contribute to ministries and governmental agencies related to forestry, the environment and the natural resources, in local authorities, NGO, national and international organisations, in the academic context, as independent entrepreneurs and of course in the private businesses.
 
Contact:
Leading professors
Prof. David Tarkhnishvili
Coord. Chair Dr. Joachim Puhe
Institute of Ecology
Ilia State University
Email: david_tarkhnishvili@iliauni.edu.ge



Natural Resources

The Master’s Degree Programs in Natural Resources (MSc) and Natural Resources Management (MBA) aim at equipping students with systematic knowledge of ecosystems, nature and the renewable biological resources. Students will receive instruction and training related to the renewable natural resources (wildlife, vegetation, water, soil) of Georgia and the Caucasus. Theory and practice will be conveyed in the relevant international, regional and local contexts and in close cooperation with other western universities and partners. The highly diverse mountain and lowland forest ecosystems context of Georgia and the Caucasus will serve as a wonderful ground for teaching and research.
The scope of study covers disciplines related to natural resources and wildlife, such as conservation biology, natural resources management,  environmental history, legislation and conflicts management, environmental education,  environmental impact assessment, bioindication, ecosystems, plant and animal ecology, regional, landscape and water resources sciences and management, sustainable recreational use of natural resources, wildlife and habitat diversity and management but also statistics, GIS and remote sensing, natural resources economics, project and human resources management, public relations, media and tourism management and other relevant communicational and methodological specialities. Participants will develop advanced judgement, and capability in preparing scientific studies, policy and project reporting, assessment, monitoring and hands-on management.

Master graduates will be prepared to successfully work and contribute to ministries and governmental agencies related to natural resources and the environment, in local authorities, NGO, national and international organisations, in the academic context, as independent entrepreneurs and of course in the private businesses.

Contact:
Leading professors
Prof. David Tarkhnishvili
Coord. Chair Dr. Joachim Puhe
Institute of Ecology
Ilia State University
Email: david_tarkhnishvili@iliauni.edu.ge


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Web Site Last Update Date :   2013-05-24