About the Regional Academy

International, multidisciplinary education program

The Regional Academy on the United Nations (RAUN) trains young scholars in issues related to the United Nations and international cooperation. RAUN’s aim is to provide participants with in-depth knowledge about the UN and its functions, to raise their cultural awareness and openness, and to offer a forum for networking and academic exchange.

Unique training format

The Academy combines lectures and workshops with practical hands-on-experiences. The program consists of three sessions per academic year starting in May until January. The sessions take place in different participating countries and include lectures and interactive workshops on various topics of relevance. All lectures are given by high-ranking experts and practitioners who share their rich experience with participants in an informal setting.

Research projects in cooperation with UN

Apart from their course-work during the sessions, participants work on research projects in cooperation with different UN Organizations and other international organizations allowing them to contribute in finding innovative solutions to contemporary global challenges. Through their group work and social activities, participants can form strong networks with their like-minded peers and experts from various fields in an environment that fosters diversity, tolerance, cultural learning, and understanding.

First-hand experiences

During the program, students get the opportunity to experience first-hand the UN institutions in Vienna and international organizations in other countries allowing them to interact directly with experts, practitioners, and diplomats. 

Diverse group of participants

The program is open to Masters and PhD students (or equivalent degrees) from all academic fields who are interested in topics related to international cooperation, development, and the work of international organizations. Applicants should be currently enrolled at a university. They are required to show strong discipline, eagerness to learn, cultural openness, and other personality traits needed to perform with excellence in an international and multi-disciplinary environment.