Programme description and specification

The International Trading System is a unique MA programme developed by the Department of World Economy in cooperation with the Centre for Trade Policy and Law (Ottawa, Canada) and the Canadian International Development Agency.

This program is tailored for students interested in studying the peculiarities of the international trading system and the development of effective trade policy. Specific focus is placed on activities of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the consequences of Russian WTO accession.

Graduates of the program are well-placed to take advantage of career opportunities in both public and commercial sectors, as well as in leading positions in transnational companies in Russia and overseas.

In addition to the lead teaching staff of the Saint Petersburg State University, experts from CTPL, state officials and representatives of international economic organizations will take part in lecturing. Both Russian and English are the working languages of the program.

The Department of World Economy is a dynamically developing educational and research subdivision of the FE SPSU. The Department today is one of the leading think tanks in Russia on trade policy issues. The staff undertakes research projects, including international ones in various aspects of international economic relations. Leading professors of the Department have substantial experience of lecturing in foreign universities.


In 2010 the Department got a status of the WTO Chair. The WTO Chairs Programme (WCP) aims to support and promote trade-related academic activities by universities and research institutions in developing and least-developed countries. Academic institutions awarded WTO Chairs receive support in the following areas: curriculum development, teaching, research and outreach activities. The Chairs have been selected through a competitive bidding process.

Key info - booklet

Programme specification:

  • The graduates will receive an MA Diploma from Saint-Petersburg State University.

  • The lectures are delivered by leading professors from Saint-Petersburg State University, partner universities and experts from international economic organisations. Representatives of Russian government and international organizations are also involved in educational process.

  • The programme duration is 2 years.

  • Working language: English.

  • The programme consists of unique academic courses, simulation games and other interactive teaching methods.

  • The best students have opportunities to get their internship in various Departments of Russian government and international economic organizations.

  • The St. Petersburg State University library and partner universities resources are available for the students.

  • The latest technical equipment provides perfect conditions for studying.