Diploma in European Studies (DES) Online – 2025/2026

The Diploma in European Studies Online (DES Online) is a modular programme delivered in English, focusing on the institutions, law, economy and main policies of the European Union.

Entirely accessible online and streamed live, the course offers a flexible and interactive learning experience for those wishing to deepen their understanding of how the EU functions and of its key policies — without geographical constraints.

Thanks to its practical and interdisciplinary approach, the DES Online also serves as a valuable and strategic tool for preparing in view of the EU knowledge component of EPSO competitions, providing a solid foundation in EU institutions, law, economics, and major EU policies. In this context, the DES Online aligns with the training offered by the European College for EPSO AD5 competition preparation, expected for early 2026 (please refer to the EU CAREERS official pages for updates).

Thanks to its modular structure, each participant can design a customized learning path based on individual training needs.

Structure

The DES Online is divided into independent modules, each dedicated to a specific topic.
Participants may attend a single module or combine several of them, as part of a broader study path.

At the end of each module, participants may obtain a Certificate of Attendance, provided they attend at least 80% of the sessions with their webcam on. The Foundation may also include a short assessment test at the end of each module.

Admission Requirements

The programme is open to:
• University Graduates and final-year University students from any discipline;
• Professionals wishing to broaden their knowledge on European affairs.

A minimum English level of B1 is required.

Format and Schedule

DES Online modules are held in parallel with those of the Master in European Studies (MAES), streamed live from MAES classroom. DES participants therefore benefit from the expertise of a highly qualified faculty (see the MAES Faculty page).

Courses are streamed live online, in the morning and/or afternoon, Monday to Friday, with opportunities for real-time interaction with lecturers (see the Module Calendar). Some sessions may also take place on Saturdays.

A Tutor is available to provide academic and organizational support throughout the module(s).

Fees and Discounts

Participants may register for one or more modules. The registration fee for each module is given in its specific description.

Discounts are available for multiple-module enrollments:
• Enrollment in 2 modules – 10% discount on the total fee
• Enrollment in 3 or more modules – 15% discount on the total fee

This modular format ensures maximum flexibility for those wishing to personalize their training pathway.

Modules scheduled from February to May 2026 will be published at a later date.

Study Visits

Participants enrolled in one or more DES Online modules may apply to join the study visits organized by the European College of Parma Foundation as part of the MAES programme.

Admission to study visits is subject to availability and confirmation by the Foundation.
A participation fee will be required for each visit, according to the specific activities envisaged in the programme.

How to Apply

To apply for modules of the Diploma in European Studies Online (DES Online), please complete the pre-enrollment form.

The Diploma in European Studies Online encompasses the following modules:

Download the Timetable.

Other modules will be made available during the academic year.

For more information, please write to  des-online@collegioeuropeo.it.