VMU
V Y TAU TAS
MAG NUS
UNIVE RS ITY
VMU
V Y TA U TA S M A G N U S U N I V E R S I T Y
VMU
V Y TA U TA S
MAGNUS UNIVERSITY
A
budding alchemist* appears at a university,
A UNIVERSITY Where art and science show you his way To celebrate a blend of diversity, And keep you dreaming awake. Mining for gold, you get something pure: A magic potion of knowledge and passion, So potent, so liberating, so true You feel free to pursue and to ponder... Everyone here is an aspiring mage: Turning their future into a wonder.
I
n the modern context, an alchemist has very little in common with a reclusive scientist who’s working in a shack somewhere and trying to turn lead into gold. Today’s alchemist is a modern man, a philosopher whose work and ideas transcend his own era, and who sees and perceives the world from a much wider perspective. For such a person, even “gold” has a completely different meaning: instead of the pursuit of a noble metal or elixir for eternal physical life, it signifies enlightenment and attainment of useful nuggets of wisdom. Here, gold symbolizes the highest consciousness and an extremely perceptive mind. Where can one find such people today? Indubitably, at the university. Vytautas Magnus University is the magnet which attracts talented individuals from Lithuania and all over the world. Its geographical setting is no less special than its history or mission: Kaunas is the academic and cultural capital of Lithuania. Our location is not only a comfortable vantage point for observation of the world, but also a great launching pad for reaching it. Lithuanian climate is highly favourable to intellectuals: its four seasons are four transformations where peaceful times so suited for contemplation and analysis are periodically replaced by change and movement. People have to keep in constant motion here; after all, movement leads to a life that is not only healthy but also full of intellectual challenges.
CONTENTS 10
21 AIR
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5 5 W AT E R
Liberal Arts University
Doctoral Studies
Liberal Studies Environment
Innovative Research
VMU in Brief Open to the World
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Engaged To Multicultural Communication
59 SULFUR
Thinking Different, and Thinking Green as Applied at VMU World Lithuanian University
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27 MERCURY
A Glimpse of History: 25 Years of Reestablished VMU in Kaunas
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69 EARTH
After Lectures
VMU Honorary Doctors and Professors
Student Organizations Exploring VMU
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51 FIRE
Vibrant City of Kaunas
Faculties
Places To Discover in Kaunas
The Faculty of Arts The Faculty of Catholic Theology The Faculty of Economics and Management The Faculty of Humanities The Faculty of Informatics The Faculty of Law The Music Academy The Faculty of Natural Sciences
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7 9 S A LT
Scholarships Non-Degree Studies Degree Studies: Application and Admission International Office Contacts
The Faculty of Political Science and Diplomacy The Faculty of Social Sciences
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THINGS VMU CAN HELP YOU ACHIEVE:
Develop critical thinking
Become more open-minded
Find a kingdom of happiness
Discover other cultures, languages, religions, societies of the world
Make new friends in a warm and honest community
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Reach a creative mindset
Laugh your way to salvation
Step back and take a new direction
Make your humour work for you
Dive into a whole new state of mind
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AIR Liberal Arts University Liberal Studies Environment VMU in Brief Open to the World Engaged To Multicultural Communication 010
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LIBERAL ARTS UNIVERSITY
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hroughout its short but exciting history, Vytautas Magnus University has been faithfully nurturing and continuing its distinguished traditions. What sets this university apart is its willingness to organize studies, scientific research and life of the community in a different way. Intellectuals from Lithuania and abroad have participated in the reestablishment of VMU and defined its goals, which are being pursued to this day. Here, utmost importance is given to aesthetics, honesty, tolerance, dialogue and the ability to think independently, while the forerunning principles are liberal and democratic. Creativity, progress and development of national culture are all brought into sharp focus.
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From the very first days of the university’s re-establishment in 1989, the experiences of Western universities have been an important influence. VMU was the first Lithuanian institution of higher education where Bachelor’s, Master’s and doctoral degree studies were offered. Modern conception of studies, based on the model of Harvard University, is implemented here. VMU differs from other Lithuanian universities in the freedom it gives the students to choose and design their study schedule. The VMU community – students, lecturers, graduates – is united by the idea of artes liberales, i.e. the classical university of liberal arts. Warm, honest interaction and liberal humanist spirit always follow and provide strength to the community. Classical liberal arts universities are the labs of modern life, educating bold young people who are not afraid to experiment and are on their way to becoming professional contributors to their own country’s future. A classical university is not governed by pragmatic matters. Formulas do not apply here. This is the space for young people to develop critical thinking
and become more open-minded. This is where the country’s future is built. Such is the Vytautas Magnus University of today. Vytautas Magnus University keeps in step with the ever-changing world: renews itself, adapts to the demands and generates new ideas. The university encourages discovering other cultures, religions, societies of the world and nurturing the public spirit. Special attention is paid to aspects more and more appreciated in the constantly changing planet – the maturation of ideas, expression of personality, communication, partnership. This allows VMU to remain an important and significant source of intellectual thought in Kaunas, Lithuania, Europe and the world.
LIBERAL STUDIES ENVIRONMENT
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ytautas Magnus University’s distinguishing feature is widespanning general university education, which not only awards the graduates with Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees but also raises active members of the society who are able to think independently and creatively. Many VMU alumni do not shy away from learning and improving for all of their lives. Local and incoming international students have the opportunity to study modern and classical foreign languages: Arabic, English, Chinese, Danish, Estonian, French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Latin, Latvian, Lithuanian (for foreigners), Norwegian, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Lithuanian sign language and three kinds of Greek: Ancient, New Testament and modern. If there is enough demand, the old Icelandic and Serbian languages are also taught here. A large crowd of lecturers who hail from the USA, Italy, France, Germany, Japan, Korea and other countries teach their own native languages at VMU. Special courses of Lithuanian language are also taught to foreigners at the university.
Vytautas Magnus University also provides the opportunity for persons to attend their chosen courses as free listeners. After studies, free listeners receive a transcript of records (list of the attended subjects, received credits and evaluations). The university is particularly focused on the training of researchers who conduct independent research, promote experimental development (social or cultural) and seek scientific solutions. The university offers PhD studies in 18 different fields of the humanities, social, biomedical and physical sciences. When Vytautas Magnus University was re-opened in 1989, it took just four years until doctoral studies were launched. From 1993 until 2013, more than 523 doctoral dissertations were defended in the university. VMU Library is a great place to study and research. It is constantly improved and tailored to the community’s needs. Scholars and students receive high quality services here and can find any material in the blink of an eye – books and documents on the humanities, biomedicine, social and physical
sciences, i.e. the main focus of the university, are readily available. The library provides both traditional and online resources in the form of over 315 000 printed materials and access to 46 licensed Internet databases containing almost 228 000 full-text documents. It boasts three lending departments and ten reading rooms, which have 500 workplaces. Resources and services are provided not only in the physical space, but in the virtual environment as well. The library also has a unique sector for manuscripts and special collections, which preserves the heritage of manuscripts related to the university and its history, as well as personal archives and the manuscript heritage of Lithuanian arts, literature, culture, history and public figures. Fast Wi-Fi Internet is available in 95 percent of the university area. VMU students can get accommodation at 3 dorms with more than 900 rooms. University also provides accessibilityfriendly studying conditions. Every year 3 million litas are handed out in scholarships for the students, and over 400 000 litas are allocated for various benefits. 013
VMU IN BRIEF
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T U D Y FA C I L I T I E S
The university has 17 buildings in Kaunas and three representative offices in Vilnius, Kharkov and Washington D.C.
Arts
Modern lecture rooms, computer classes and labs
Catholic Theology
Library holding over 270 000 books and other publications or texts
Economics and Management
3 lending departments and 9 reading rooms with 437 workplaces
Humanities
Computer-assisted language learning lab SANAKO LAB 300
Informatics
Law
Music Academy
Natural Sciences
Accessibility-friendly studying environment: university spaces, lecture rooms, library and dorms are adapted for use by people of all needs. A special leisure room is available for students with accessibility requirements. Lecturers individualize the learning process according to the students’ needs
95% of university locations are free Wi-Fi (wireless Internet) zones
Political Science and Diplomacy
Internal network (intranet) system FirstClass
Social Sciences
Three dormitories (accommodation for more than 900 people)
STUDY PROGR AMMES
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STUDIES ARE ORGANIZED B Y 1 0 FA C U LT I E S
COMMUNIT Y
51 BA programmes
55 MA programmes
Integrated Legal Studies
15 postgraduate programmes
Non-degree studies of Pedagogy
Doctoral studies in 18 scientific areas
Around 10 000 bachelor and master degree students
More than 550 scholars and researchers
More than 26 000 university graduates (since 1989)
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O L L A B O R AT I O N S A N D I N T E R N AT I O N A L STUDIES
Collaboration with over 370 universities around the world: 250 Erasmus partners from 29 countries and over 120 bilateral collaborative agreements with universities in 40 countries in Europe, Asia, North and South America VMU partners include 14 colleges and more than 60 schools and gymnasiums VMU implements Erasmus and VMU bilateral exchange programmes VMU is a member of Campus Europae, a network that unites 19 universities 8 bachelor degree programmes, 19 master degree programmes and over 500 Courses in English 30 intensive foreign language courses. Their number varies by semester VMU implements 2 double degree, 2 joint-degree study programmes with foreign partner universities Every year, about 250 students and 150 employees of VMU participate in Erasmus exchange programme, 50 students of VMU participate in VMU bilateral exchange programme, while the university welcomes over 500 incoming students from abroad
I N T E R N AT I O N A L R E C O G N I T I O N In the QS World University Rankings (2013 / 2014), VMU was ranked among the top 800 universities of the world In 2013, an international QS Stars higher education quality audit specialist gave VMU the highest evaluations for its student support: scholarships, social benefits and disability allowance In the national context, VMU received the second best rating from the weekly magazine Veidas. The university was particularly successful in the following categories: variety of study programmes; research and art activities; activities by academic staff and alumni; students’ opinion about the university In 2011, Education Exchanges Support Foundation (the National Agency of the Erasmus programme) awarded VMU as the most active institution in Lithuania, during the year 2007–2010, which encouraged the mobility of the persons with special needs under the Erasmus programme VMU is a member of 5 international associations (EUA, EAIE, EDEN, AABS, GreenLight) Member of the Baltic Sea Region University Network (BSRUN) Member of the Association for the Advancement of Baltic Studies (AABS), etc. Member of the United Nations Academic Impact
UNIVERSIT Y MANAGEMENT U S E F U L L I N K S The university’s Council is a collegial management body which is currently chaired by President of Lithuania Valdas Adamkus
The Senate is a collegial body which manages academic affairs of the university. It is currently chaired by Prof. Zigmuntas Kiaupa
The Rector is the university’s individual management body which functions in the university’s name and represents it. The current Rector is Prof. Zigmas Lydeka
Website www.vdu.lt/en
Facebook + VMU on the Move www.facebook.com/VMU.International
Degree Studies in English www.vdu.lt/degreestudiesineng
BA and MA Courses in English www.vdu.lt/bamacoursesineng
PhD Studies in English www.vdu.lt/phdstudiesineng
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OPEN TO THE WORLD
international agreements. Meanwhile, VMU students spend a semester or full academic year at a university in Europe, the USA, South Korea, Japan or another country.
V
ytautas Magnus University has focused on international cooperation since the beginning of its re-establishment by Lithuanian and Diaspora scientists in 1989. Today, one of the strategic aims of the university is to stimulate international development. Today VMU is collaborating with many universities and scientists around the world, carrying out projects, student and employee exchange, constantly improving the system of studying and research. Every year, almost two hundred students and several dozens of teachers from various universities around the world join the VMU community, in accordance to
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Since 1999, VMU has been participating in the inter-university student and teacher exchange programme Erasmus, which allows VMU students to travel to study abroad while, in turn, the university accepts large crowds of international students from all over the world. Also functioning at the university is the International Office, which manages relations with various Lithuanian and foreign institutions, presents study programmes, spreads information about studies, scholarships, internships, international science programmes, projects, etc. The office also provides help and consultations to the incoming foreign students and lecturers, regarding the questions of studies, life in Lithuania (migration) and integration into the academic community of the university. VMU pursues a large number of different avenues in order to strengthen its international relations.
Collaborations are determined by bilateral agreements, and ties with other countries are established by joining and participating in international organizations and networks. Various international projects and programmes allow the university to expand its scope internationally. Every year, Vytautas Magnus University also provides everyone with an excellent opportunity to take part in various international summer schools. Most of them follow in the footsteps of the Lithuanian Language and Culture Summer Courses at VMU, which foster the oldest traditions of all summer courses here and are the most valued by foreign students and Lithuanians living abroad. In four weeks, the participants improve Lithuanian language skills, get to know Lithuanian lifestyle, visit historical landmarks, and have fun on spare time.
E N G A G E D T O M U LT I C U LT U R A L C O M M U N I C AT I O N
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ytautas Magnus University sees knowledge of multiple foreign languages as an integral part of modern university education. The VMU Institute of Foreign Languages (IFL) is a modern academic institute of languages which offers the widest assortment of foreign languages in Lithuania. A unique feature of VMU as a liberal arts university is the opportunity for students of all faculties to choose and study as many languages as they want of the available 30 modern and classic ones: Ancient Greek, Arabic, Catalan, Chinese, Danish, English, Estonian, Finnish, French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Japanese, Kirghiz, Korean, Latin, Latvian, Modern Greek, New Testament Greek, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Serbian, Spanish, Swedish, Turkish, Yiddish, Lithuanian Sign Language, and Lithuanian for foreigners. If there is popular demand, courses of Old Icelandic language are offered as well. After studying a unique combination of two or more languages, VMU students acquire multilingual competence which gives them a competitive advantage in the global labour market.
All undergraduate VMU students must acquire B2 level of English proficiency (recognised by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). Specialised subjects for C1 and C1 / C2 level English are offered: Business English, Legal English, Political English, Academic English, Artistic English, Social Science English and preparation for standardised tests. There are subjects for other languages as well, tailored towards improvement of linguistic competence in specific areas: Beginner Latin for Lawyers, Business Russian (B1), Professional German (C1), etc. Foreign language learning is intensive. Courses are organized six times a week, which includes four practical language learning sessions in lecture rooms and the computer language learning lab, and two online sessions on e-learning software platform Moodle. The latter encompasses participation in discussion forums, preparation of group projects and completion of interactive assignments. Language courses are taught by more than 50 lecturers, 10 of whom are native speakers of the language they teach.
The IFL offers a wide variety of subjects dedicated to the development of intercultural competence: Culture in the Arab Region, Culture in the Antiquity, Antique Mythology, Religious Symbolics, Hellenistic Culture and Christianity, Turkic World, Turkic Region Culture, Islam in the Modern World, and Culture of Countries in the Baltic Sea Region. The IFL is an active promoter of informal language learning: the institute organizes book exhibitions, foreign film screenings, language weeks and other events. One of the most popular celebrations marks the European Day of Languages. It includes public lectures on multilingualism, language learning with involvement from international students, and creative performances by students, guests and high school pupils. Students from other universities, VMU employees, pupils of VMU Rasa Gymnasium, Kaunas residents and guests may also sign up for language courses at the IFL: they can study together with VMU students or choose separate evening courses. 017
BELARUS
V MU Bila tera l C ollabora tive Ag re e m e nts
Yanka Kupala State University of Grodno European Humanities University A.S. Pushkin Brest State University Baranovichi State University
SWEDEN University of Gothenburg Nordic Graduate School of
Language Technology
N O R W AY Telemark University College University of Bergen
CANADA
POLAND
Athabasca University
University of Warsaw Adam Mickiewicz University Nicolaus Copernicus University The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin Jegiellonian University University of Białystok
UNITED KINGDOM
University of Northampton University of Central Lancashire Edinburg Napier University University of Glasgow
B E LG I U M Universite de Liege Universite Cathalique de Louvain
USA
Southern Illinois University Carbondale University of Alabama School of Social Work University of Nebraska Kearney University of North Dakota Association for Advancement of Baltic Studies Black Hill State University Florida Coastal School of Law Michigan State University: College of Law Seton Hall University Texas Tech University MEXICO Barry University University Oklahoma Central University of Noroeste The Julliard School
S PA I N
GERMANY
University
Johannes Gutenberg University TestDaf Institute University of Applied Sciences University of Hohenheim University of Kassel Goethe Institute Vilnius Humboldt University of Berlin
of Granada
FRANCE Institut Régional du Travail
S LOV E N I A
Social Nord-Pas de Calais
University
University of Maine L’Universite Grenoble III
of Ljubljana
SWITZERLAND University of Business
BRASIL
and International Studies
Federal University of Santa Catarina Pontificia Universidade Catoloca
I TA LY
De Minas Gerais
ARGENTINA Universidad de Siglo 21
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Parma University Milano – Bicocca University University of Bologna
UKRAINE
L AT V I A Riga Teacher Training and Educational Management Academy Liepaja University Rezekne Higher Education Institution HUNGARY University of Latvia Pazmany Peter University of Liepaja Catholic University Corvinus University and its ESTONIA Institute of Social and University of Tallinn LITHUANIA European Studies in Koszeg University of Tartu Forum of Masaryk University Lithuania and Latvia
ROMANIA University
FINLAND
of Pitesti
Kharkiv National University of Economics National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy Sumy State University South Ukrainian National Pedagogical University named after K.D.Ushynsky National University «Yaroslav the Wise Law Academy of Ukraine» Ternopil National Economic University Ivan Franko National University of Lviv
RUSSIA CYPRUS European University Cyprus Eastern Medeteranian University
University of Turku University of Lapland Stockholm University
Pomor State University named after M. V. Lomonosov Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia, Sochi Institute Pskov State Polytechnic institute Saint Petersburg State University Magnitogorsk State University Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University Voronezh State University
SOUTH KOREA
TA I W A N ( R . O . C . ) National Cheng Chi
University Providence University
PA K I S TA N Institute
of Business Managment
MACEDONIA School of
Journalism and Public Relations
CHINA Minzu
University of China
U Z B E K I S TA N Termez State
University
TURKEY
INDIA
AZERBAIJAN
Bitlis Eren
GEORGIA
K A Z A K H S TA N
Lauder School
Ivane Javakhishvili
Tbilisi University Caucasus University
ARMENIA
Yerevan State
Linguistic University
Akita International University Chubu University Gifu University International Christian University Kansai Gaidai University Osaka University Meiji University Waseda University, Hirayama Ikou Valunteer Centre Saga University
M A L AY S I A
IZRAEL of Government at IDC (Interdisciplinary Center) Herzilya
J A PA N
Nehru University
Diplomatic Academy
University
Chung-Ang University Dongguk University Hankuk University of Foreign Studies Youngsan University Kangwon National University Kyung Hee University Soongsil University Chonnam National University Pusan National University Sungkyungwan University
Jawaharlal
Azerbaijan
University Girne American
Limkokwing University of Creative Technology
D. A. Kunaeva University Kazakh National Pedagogical University named after Abay The L. N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University Turan University 019
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Prof. Birutė Galdikas | Simon Fraser University, Canada Dominique Bagnar | University of Strasbourg, France David Prangishvili | Institut Pasteur, France Prof. Robert Bolla | Bradley University, USA Prof. Mikael Rothstein | University of Southern Denmark, Denmark Prof. Katherine Tyson McCrea | Loyola University Chicago, USA Prof. Nilza Costa | University of Aveiro, Portugal Prof. Roy M. Kern | Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania Prof. Julian Martin | Juilliard School of Music and Dance, USA Prof. Jerome Lowenthal | Juilliard School of Music and Dance, USA Prof. Viačeslav Semionov | Gnessin Russian Academy of Music, Russia Prof. Anto Pett | Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre, Estonia Prof. Max Bonnay | National Superior Conservatory of Paris for Music and Dance Prof. Otto Rastbichler | Mozarteum University of Salzburg, Austria Prof. John Stewart Gordon | University of Cologne Prof. Algis Mickūnas | Ohio University Prof. Waldemar Rezmer | Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Poland Prof. Robert Parkins | University of Oxford, UK Prof. Andreas F. Kelletat | Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Germany Prof. Jef Verschueren | University of Antwerp, Netherlands Prof. Johann Haller | Saarland University, Germany Dr. Erick Reis Godliauskas Zen | University of Sao Paulo, Brasil Prof. Stefano Bianchini | University of Bologna, Italy Prof. Peter Gross | University of Tennessee, USA Prof. Epp Lauk | University of Jyvaskyla, Finland Prof. Robert van Voren | Ilia State University, Georgia and Vytautas Magnus University Prof. Eric Freedman | Michigan State University, USA Prof. Alfred Erich Senn | University of Wisconsin–Madisson, USA James McCall | Edinburgh Napier University, UK Prof. Pierre Semal | KU Leuven University, Belgium Prof. Poul Wolffsen | Roskilde University, Denmark Prof. Nihat Kamil Anil | Kirklareli University, Turkey Prof. Knut Arntzen | University of Bergen Dr. Edmund Carroll | Vytautas Magnus University Prof. Christopher R. Kelley | University of Arkansas School of Law, USA Prof. Troy Samuel Brown | Michigan State University College of Law, USA Prof. Bruce Bean | Michigan State University College of Law, USA Prof. Barbara Bean | Michigan State University College of Law, USA Prof. Daniel D. Barnhizer | Michigan State University College of Law, USA Prof. Marija Bartl | University of Amsterdam, Netherlands Prof. Fernand de Varennes | University of Hong Kong, University of Pretoria, South Africa, and Vytautas Magnus University Prof. Howard W. Brill | University of Arkansas School of Law, USA Prof. Teresa Farah | University of Arkansas School of Law, USA Prof. Cristopher Kulander | Texas Tech University School of Law, USA Prof. Jorge A. Ramirez | Texas Tech University School of Law, USA Prof. Victoria Sutton | Texas Tech University School of Law, USA
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MERCURY A Glimpse of History: 25 Years of Reestablished VMU in Kaunas VMU Honorary Doctors and Professors 022
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A GLIMPSE OF HISTORY 2 5 Y E A R S O F R E E S TA B L I S H E D V M U I N K A U N A S
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ytautas Magnus University’s origins are closely linked to the interwar and the moods of freedom and the cultural renaissance that prevailed at the time. The university’s inception coincided with the birth of Lithuanian Statehood. Having declared the country’s political independence on February 16th in 1918, the key figures of Lithuanian enlightenment considered it a high priority task to establish a Lithuanian university. Four years later, after the reorganization of the Program of Higher Education, the University of Lithuania was opened in Kaunas. During the interwar period, it remained the only Lithuanian school of higher education. Before long, it became a vitally important breeding ground for cultural, scientific and modern national ideas. The university was unique during the interwar period due to its free spirit, eventful and exciting social life, and a nurtured sense of community. Most of the famous contemporary intellectuals, highest ranking Lithuanian officials and government figures studied here. This university was also the place where the most prominent scientific and cultural movements of the period were founded. 024
Since its first years, the university has been following a liberal policy on studies and paying exceptional attention to liberal arts and social sciences, acknowledging their role in uniting the nation and fostering its historical memory. To this day, the values of VMU remain the same – liberty, intelligence, partnership, liberal and communal thoughts. When the 500th anniversary of the death of Grand Duke Vytautas Magnus was commemorated in 1930, the University of Lithuania was renamed to honour his name and the occasion, and is known today as VMU. The Soviet government closed Vytautas Magnus University down in 1950, but some of its faculties served as a foundation for other schools of higher education. Thanks to emigrants, the academic tradition of VMU not only survived, but also kept developing for long years until restoration of independence. In 1989, the university was re-established through the collective efforts of Lithuanian and emigrant scientists. At the time, it was the first autonomous school of higher education in the country.
The Statute of University legitimated the principle of academic freedom and the unity of science and studies. It introduced the principle of three level studies and used a modern studying model based on an American concept, which was completely unique at the time. The concept gives more preference to widespanning, general university education, as opposed to narrow and heavily specialized studies. This shifts the focus to a more universal, versatile education and the needs of modern society. To this day, Vytautas Magnus University stands out from the crowd due to the implementation of liberal principles in its framework of studies, which allows students to enjoy the freedom of choice and wealth of opportunities to expand knowledge in several different scientific fields. In 2012, VMU and other universities of Kaunas – Kaunas University of Technology, Lithuanian Sports University, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences and Aleksandras Stulginskis University – marked
the 90th anniversary since the establishment of their common predecessor, the University of Lithuania. In 2013, Vytautas Magnus University marked the 25th anniversary of its re-establishment. A quarter of a century ago, VMU was reborn and turned into a true alternative. Today it has already become the centre of attraction for the country’s intellectual world. It has raised a new Lithuanian and global generation which is known and recognised by the world of today. These people look at the world with great curiosity. They know the scientific laws of the physical universe and the living systems, but at the same time are capable of independent thinking, actively pursue intellectual and aesthetic work, and want to learn about the cultures, religions and societies of the world. This new generation is striding bravely into the future and feels an honest desire to change the world for the better. Vytautas Magnus University of the 21st century is the new self-realization space for dreaming and creating.
TIMELINE OF MA JOR EVENTS IN VMU HISTORY 1922 1930 1950 1989 1993 1995 2012 2013
– The Lithuanian University is established in Kaunas – The Lithuanian University is granted the name of Vytautas Magnus – Vytautas Magnus University is closed down by the Soviet government – Vytautas Magnus University is re-established – The first class of Bachelor’s degree students graduate – The first class of Master‘s degree students graduate – The university marks the 90th anniversary since its establishment – The university marks the 25th anniversary since its reestablishment
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VMU HONORARY DOCTORS AND PROFESSORS
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ince the establishment of the university in 1922, honorary titles have been granted to presidents, signatories of the Independence Act, poets and writers, scientists and other individuals who have greatly contributed to the history of Lithuania and the university. VMU HONORARY DOC TORS 01 Ban Ki-moon (2013-11-13) 02 Bronisław Maria Karol Komorowski
(2013-11-13) 03 Edward Lucas (2013-11-13) 04 Kęstutis Skrupskelis (2013-11-13) 05 Vygaudas Ušackas (2013-11-13) 06 Kazys Almenas (2013-06-12) 07 Rimas Kalvaitis (2013-06-12) 08 Robertas Keturakis (2013-06-12) 09 Saulius Sužiedėlis (2012-10-31) 10 Pierre Semal (2012-10-31) 11 Marek Chmielewski (2012-06-27) 12 Violeta Kelertienė (2012-06-27) 13 Edmundas Rimša (2012-06-27) 14 Rein Raud (2011-06-28) 15 Kęstutis Trimakas (2010-03-30) 16 Birutė Galdikas (2010-02-24) 17 Tomas Venclova (2010-02-24) 18 Andreas Kelletat (2010-02-24) 19 Jean-Paul Larçon (2009-03-25) 20 Vytas E. Gruodis (2009-03-25) 21 Antanas Kulakauskas (2009-02-25) 22 Waldemar Rezmer (2008-12-10) 23 Adam Michnik (2008-10-15) 24 Zygmunt Bauman (2007-04-18)
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25 Orm Øverland (2007-02-21) 26 Miroslav Hroch (2007-02-21) 27 Vincas Valkavičius (2003-06-25) 28 Vaira Vike Freiberga (2001-12-18) 29 Valdas Adamkus (2001-12-18) 30 Vilhelm Einar Stellan Hjerten (2001-05-30) 31 Sigitas Tamkevičius (1999-03-25) 32 Alfred Erich Senn (1999-03-25) 33 Jonas Mekas (1997-10-30) 34 Alfonsas Nyka-Nyliūnas (1997-03-26) 35 Adolfas Damušis (1997-03-26) 36 Antanas Rubšys (1996-04-17) 37 Antanas Razma (1995-10-18) 38 Zigmas Zinkevičius (1994-03-09) 39 Bernardas Brazdžionis (1994-03-09) 40 Marija Gimbutienė (1993-01-27) 41 Antanas Liuima (1992-02-07) 42 Czesław Miłosz (1991-09-18) 43 Stasys Lozoraitis (1991-09-18) 44 Vytautas Landsbergis (1991-09-18) 45 Jonas Šliūpas (1939-12-11)
60 Aleksandras Faidutti (1929-06-26) 61 Povilas Matulionis (1929-06-18) 62 Jonas Staugaitis (1929-02-13) 63 Prof. Aleksandras Dambrauskas-Jakštas (1928-12-14) 64 Martynas Yčas (1928-10-28) 65 Marija Pečkauskaitė (1928-10-05) 66 Inozas Lukašekas (1928-06-09) 67 Vilius Storasta-Vydūnas (1927-12-16) 68 Samuelis Zochas (1927-05-19) 69 Kazys Grinius (1926-12-11) 70 Petras Vileišis (1926-05-15) 71 Aurelijus Vossas (1924-12-07) 72 Pranas Mašiotas (1923-12-17) 73 Augustas Niemi (1923-09-28) 74 Jonas Šliūpas (1923-02-28) 75 Dr. Jonas Basanavičius (1923-02-28) 76 Jonas Šliūpas (1923-02-24) 77 Petras Vileišis (1923-02-24) 78 Haroldas Benderis (1922-10-14)
VMU HONORARY PROFESSORS
46 Oskaras Vladislovas Milašius (1936-06-15)
79 Vytautas Kaminskas (2012-02-29)
47 Teodoras Grinbergs (1936-02-08)
80 Viktorija Skrupskelytė (2011-06-28)
48 Taivo J. Bansdorfas (1934-12-14)
81 Bronislovas Genzelis (2010-02-24)
49 Jokūbas Alksnis (1933-02-16)
82 Antanas Tyla (2008-12-10)
50 Antanas Smetona (1932-10-28)
83 Vytautas Juozas Černius (2006-12-20)
51 Petras Leonas (1932-09-25)
84 Vytautas Statulevičius (2000-06-29)
52 Mykolas Biržiška (1932-09-23)
85 Bronius Vaškelis (1998-05-14)
53 Dušanas Fainoras (1932-02-23)
86 Jurgis Vilemas (1994-03-09)
54 Matviejus Liubavskis (1932-01-29)
87 Algirdas Avižienis (1994-03-09)
55 Jurgis Baltrušaitis (1932-01-29) 56 Prof. Aleksandras Dambrauskas-Jakštas
(1932-01-29) 57 Prof. Jonas Mačiulis-Maironis (1932-01-29) 58 Janis Endzelins (1932-01-19) 59 Juozas Tumas-Vaižgantas (1929-10-12)
88 Jonas Mačiulis-Maironis (1922-10-15) 89 Aleksandras Dambrauskas-Jakštas (1922-10-15) 90 Petras Leonas (1933-09-15) 91 Adalbertas Bezzenbergeris (1922-10-15) 92 Jonas Jablonskis (1922-03-15) 93 Jonas Basanavičius (1922-03-15)
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FIRE Faculties The Faculty of Arts The Faculty of Catholic Theology The Faculty of Economics and Management The Faculty of Humanities The Faculty of Informatics The Faculty of Law The Music Academy The Faculty of Natural Sciences The Faculty of Political Science and Diplomacy The Faculty of Social Sciences 028
029
FA C U LT I E S
T
oday VMU is the hotbed for social and political sciences, arts, theology, law and the humanities in Kaunas. The university boasts innovative research and relevant studies of natural sciences and informatics, while its programmes of economics and management enjoy immense popularity and attract the most talented high school leavers every year. The university rests on the foundations of collegial communication among students and teachers, dissemination of liberal ideas, general education (study system of liberal arts), multilingualism, encouragement of humanist values, modern outlook towards studies and international collaborations. VMU is an open, liberal and independent university, which nurtures personalities capable of thinking and acting creatively and independently.
030
C H O O S E YO U R P R O G R A M M E!
The university’s students pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD academic degrees. There are 27 fulltime degree programmes available in English at VMU – all of them are high-standard, internationally relevant studies. These programmes are a winning ticket to liberal arts education and firsthand experience of living and learning in a Central Eastern European country. BAC H E LO R ’S ACADEMIC DEGREE IN ENGLISH Biology Energy Technologies English Philology European Economic Studies Fashion Design Informatics International Politics and
Development Studies Music Production
MASTER’S ACADEMIC DEGREE IN ENGLISH Applied Informatics Applied Sociology Baltic Sea Region Studies Business Informatics Contemporary European Politics Diplomacy and International Relations East Asia Region Studies Energy and Environment Environmental Management Finance and Banking Interdisciplinary Research and Studies
on Eastern Europe (MIREES) (Joint-degree) International Business Law International Economics (Double degree) Journalism and Media Analysis Marketing and International Commerce
(Double degree) Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Social Anthropology Social Work Sociolinguistics and Multilingualism
(SoMu) (Joint-degree)
031
T H E FA C U LT Y O F ARTS FA C U LT Y C O M M U N I T Y
MINOR STUDY PROGRAMMES
approx. 400 students approx. 40 teachers and research
Acting Theory & History of Arts New Media Art Creative industries
fellows FA C U LT Y S T R U C T U R E
Departments of Art History and Criticism, Theatre Studies and Contemporary Arts BA STUDY PROGRAMMES Acting Theory & History of Arts New Media Art Creative Industries Fashion Design Music Production
*
*
MA STUDY PROGRAMMES Culture Heritage and Tourism Creative Industries Art History and Criticism Theatre Studies and Management
032
EXCHANGE OPPORTUNITIES
One-semester studies at the universities in Austria, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Turkey and United Kingdom by Erasmus exchange programme and by VMU bilateral collaborative agreements. Students may gain practical experience by making use of Erasmus work placement program in enterprises and organisations in all EU countries as well as in Island, Norway, Lichtenstein, Turkey and Switzerland. FA C U LT Y S T U D E N T A C T I V I T I E S
Arts Centre, community of volunteers at the Art Gallery “101”, Theatre Discussion Club
* These study programmes are carried out in English and are offered to English-speaking students as full-time degree programmes. C O N TA C T S
Laisvės al. 53, LT-44309, Kaunas Phone (+370 37) 327 877 Fax (+370 37) 203 858 dek@mf.vdu.lt www.menufakultetas.vdu.lt
F
aculty of Arts is a dynamic division of the university, which is always full of original ideas. It seeks to prepare universal artists and theorists of art who would successfully integrate into job markets in Lithuania and abroad. Unique integrated studies of Theory and History of Arts, as well as innovative programmes of New Media Art, Acting and Creative Industries are offered here. Departments of Art History and Criticism, Theatre Studies and Contemporary Arts prepare Bachelors of Arts and Humanities, as well as Masters of theatre studies and performing arts management, art historians and critics, curators, experts of cultural heritage and creative industries. This is the only faculty in Lithuania which offers integrated degree studies of Theory and History of Arts: it prepares universally educated art critics and art historians who possess comprehensive knowledge of various arts (fine arts, architecture, theatre, music, cinema, dance, photography) and are capable of applying theory in practice. The faculty also offers master studies and doctoral studies of the same field.
and skills of personal management, curatorship, art project organization and management. The new programme of Acting arms soonto-be actors with interdisciplinary skills they can creatively employ in acting, text composition, directing, etc. Its graduates are prepared for professional careers in theatre, cinema, TV and other creative industries. In 2013, the faculty launched undergraduate programme of Creative Industries, which will prepare managers and executives of creative industries. In 2014, the Faculty of Arts and the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan, UK) will start to organize two joint programmes in English: Fashion Design and Music Production. Studies at the Faculty of Arts take place not just in lecture rooms but also in art laboratories, libraries, museums, theatre, cinema and concert halls, which serve as places for examination of art objects and creative practice. Lectures in the faculty are read by famous artists and experts of Lithuanian art.
New interdisciplinary programmes are also available at the Faculty of Arts. The goal of New Media Art studies is to provide knowledge of different media (photography, video, audio arts, computer graphics, multimedia technology) 033
T H E FA C U LT Y O F C AT H O L I C T H E O L O G Y FA C U LT Y C O M M U N I T Y
MINOR STUDY PROGRAMMES
C O N TA C T S
approx. 200 students approx. 40 teachers and research
Pedagogy of Religion Catholic Theology
Gimnazijos g. 7 LT-44260, Kaunas Phone (+370 37) 323 477 Fax (+370 37) 323 477 dek@ktf.vdu.lt http://www.teologija.vdu.lt
fellows
EXCHANGE OPPORTUNITIES FA C U LT Y S T R U C T U R E
Departments of Theology and Religious Studies Centre of History of Lithuanian Catholic Church, Centre of Christian Education, Research Centre on Marriage and Family BA STUDY PROGRAMMES Catholic Theology Pedagogy of Religion
M A A N D L I C E N T I AT E STUDY PROGRAMMES Family Research Pastoral Theology Religious Education
034
One-semester studies at the universities in Belgium, France, Latvia, Malta, Netherlands and Spain by Erasmus exchange programme and by VMU bilateral collaborative agreements. Students may gain practical experience by making use of Erasmus work placement program in enterprises and organisations in all EU countries as well as in Island, Norway, Lichtenstein, Turkey and Switzerland. FA C U LT Y S T U D E N T A C T I V I T I E S
Scientific association “Signum”
T
he Faculty of Catholic Theology is the only Lithuanian faculty approved by the Apostolic Congregation for Catholic Education in Vatican and awarding not just civil but ecclesiastical degrees. The studies here are attractive not only to future priests but to laity as well. The faculty welcomes students who hold Christian values or plan on working in the church or public organizations, solving socially relevant issues of morality, spirituality, ethics, responding to fundamental needs of a person, family and society. The faculty accepts admissions to BA study programmes of Catholic Theology and Pedagogy of Religion. Students here can also pursue a Licentiate in Theology (study programme of Pastoral Theology) and a degree of Master of Religious Studies (study programme of Religious Education). For one semester, the students of the faculty can improve their knowledge at universities in countries of the EU and do Erasmus internship at an organization of their choice abroad.
doctrine of the Catholic Church, Christian anthropology and pastoral care, biblical sciences, psychology of marriage, Christian education, Theology of the Body, relationship between religion and science, adult education, etc. In the Faculty of Catholic Theology exceptional attention is given to the community life and the students’ pastoral care. Students are also provided opportunities to work as volunteers with Catholic organizations, youth and family centres, initiatives of New Evangelization, the radio station “Radio Maria”, etc. Various conferences, courses (“Alfa”, “Know Yourself”) and seminars are an excellent setting for the students to discuss religion and life and look for ample solutions to relevant problems.
First level students at the VMU Faculty of Catholic Theology are learning knowledge of philosophy and theology, getting to know Christian worldview, basics in psychology and educology. Master’s degree programmes of Family Research, Pastoral Theology and Religious Education allow the students to expand their knowledge on the 035
T H E FA C U LT Y O F ECONOMICS AND MANAGEMENT FA C U LT Y C O M M U N I T Y
MINOR STUDY PROGRAMMES
approx. 1500 students approx. 50 teachers and research fellows
Economics and Finance European Economic Studies Marketing Management Business Administration
FA C U LT Y S T R U C T U R E
Departments of Finance, Management, Marketing, Economics. Business Consulting and Continuous Education Centre BA STUDY PROGRAMMES Business Administration Economics and Finance European Economic Studies Marketing Management
*
MA STUDY PROGRAMMES Advertising Management Finance and Banking Firm Organization and Management International Economics (Double
*
degree) * Marketing and International Commerce (Double degree) *
036
EXCHANGE OPPORTUNITIES
One-semester studies at the universities in Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Latvia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey by Erasmus exchange programme and by VMU bilateral collaborative agreements.Two-semester studies at one of the member universities of Campus Europae. Students may gain practical experience by making use of Erasmus work placement program in enterprises and organisations in all EU countries as well as in Island, Norway, Lichtenstein, Turkey and Switzerland. FA C U LT Y S T U D E N T A C T I V I T I E S
Student club “VDU Economicus”.
* These study programmes are carried out in English and are offered to English-speaking students as full-time degree programmes. C O N TA C T S
S. Daukanto g. 28 LT-44246, Kaunas Phone (+370 37) 327 857 Fax (+370 37) 203 857 dek@evf.vdu.lt http://evf.vdu.lt
T
he VMU Faculty of Economics and Management is one of the best internationally acclaimed schools of economics and management in Lithuania. The international network of higher education schools EDUNIVERSAL has evaluated 7000 universities around the world and selected 1000 of them as providers of the best studies of business administration and management. In 2007 and 2012, this list included the Faculty of Economics and Management at Vytautas Magnus University. The faculty offers studies at three levels – Bachelor’s, Master’s and doctoral – while the study programmes pull in the brightest Lithuanian high school graduates. Also functioning at the faculty is the Business Consulting and Continuous Education Centre, which also accepts admissions to various learning programmes, ranging from short specialized courses to Master’s degree studies of management and administration.
studies offer enough universal and specialized knowledge to help the students successfully integrate into the competitive world of business. The students of the Faculty of Economics and Management were the first at the university to participate in Campus Europae, the academic exchange programme of European universities. Students travelling to study at a foreign university spend one semester studying not only the specialized subjects but also the language of the country they are visiting; in the second semester, they attend lectures that are read in foreign language. VMU is the only Lithuanian university participating in the programme. Students also take part in the Erasmus exchange programme, which allows them to spend half a year acquiring knowledge at universities of Germany, Denmark, Spain, Finland, Greece, France, Italy, Norway and other countries.
Well-qualified faculty teachers contribute to the evolving responsibility, diligence, self-reliance and communicability of the future graduates. Student internship is given high priority at the faculty. Successful careers of the alumni at various Lithuanian business organizations, local branches of foreign companies and governmental institutions serve as a testament to the fact that the 0 37
T H E FA C U LT Y O F HUMANITIES FA C U LT Y C O M M U N I T Y
MA STUDY PROGRAMMES
approx. 1400 students approx. 100 teachers and research fellows
Applied Lithuanian Linguistics Comparative Cultural Studies History of Lithuania History of Migration Policy and
FA C U LT Y S T R U C T U R E
Departments of English Philology, Germanistics and Romanistics, History, Cultural Studies and Ethnology, Lithuanian Language, Lithuanian Literature, Philosophy. Centres of Computational Linguistics, Culture Research, Studies of Prof. Bronius Vaškelis’ Literary Comparativistics, Kaunas’ History, Intercultural Communication and Multilingualism, Lithuanian Emigration Institute. BA STUDY PROGRAMMES Cultures of the Baltic Region Cultures and Languages of East Asian
Countries English and German Philology English Philology * French Philology History Italian Studies and Romance Languages Lithuanian Philology Philosophy
038
Lithuanian Diaspora Literature and Press Practical Philosophy Sociolinguistics and Multilingualism (SoMu) (Joint-degree) *
Romania, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom by Erasmus exchange programme and by VMU bilateral collaborative agreements. Twosemester studies at one of the member universities of Campus Europae. Students may gain practical experience by making use of Erasmus work placement program in enterprises and organisations in all EU countries as well as in Island, Norway, Lichtenstein, Turkey and Switzerland.
MINOR STUDY PROGRAMMES Cultures of the Baltic Region Cultures and Languages of East Asian
Countries English and German Philology English Philology French Philology History Italian Studies and Romance Languages Lithuanian Philology Philosophy EXCHANGE OPPORTUNITIES
One-semester studies at the universities in Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Norway, Poland,
FA C U LT Y S T U D E N T A C T I V I T I E S
Student clubs of history, ethnology and English (English Club, FUEL – Fun with English Language and Literature), academic literature club ALK’as, French discussions’ club (Cercle de Parable) and philosophy students’ scientific society Agora.
* These study programmes are carried out in English and are offered to English-speaking students as full-time degree programmes. C O N TA C T S
K. Donelaičio g. 52-216, LT-44244, Kaunas Phone (+370 37) 327 830 | Fax (+370 37) 203 858 dek@hmf.vdu.lt | http://hmf.vdu.lt
T
he humanities at Vytautas Magnus University are especially important, because, aside from high quality education, they also provide the student with the ability to explore and understand the world around us, use independent and critical thinking and develop an original and creative personality.
A wide variety of research is carried out at the Centre of Computational Linguistics, such as development of the online information translation tool, digitalization of verbal and written language, grammatical and semantic analysis of the Lithuanian language, research of spoken language, automatic transcription of music and other.
The faculty offers the following studies of the humanities: history, ethnology, philosophy and Lithuanian, English, German and French philology, as well as Italian studies and Romance languages, Baltic region cultures, and East Asian cultures and languages. These programmes can be selected as the major track at BA, MA and PhD level studies. Every semester, various study subjects are taught by guest lecturers from all around the world.
The Lithuanian Emigration Institute conducts research on the cultural, political and scientific heritage of the Lithuanian diaspora, in addition to collecting and preserving unique archives of the diaspora. Scientists working at the institute investigate the history, culture and literature of Lithuanian exile, analyze the processes of modern migration, etc.
BA level graduates may choose to pursue Master’s degree at a different faculty or university. Graduates quickly get to know the specifics of the work, as they have acquired what is the most important – not the rapidly aging knowledge of a particular specialty, but a wideranging education of liberal arts. The driving force of the faculty’s scientific research is in the research clusters and research centres of Computational Linguistics, Culture Research, Prof. Bronius Vaškelis’ Literary Comparativistics, Kaunas’ History, Intercultural Communication and Multilingualism, and Lithuanian Emigration Institute.
pay special attention to the issues of multilingualism and its relation to first and second language acquisition, language development, attrition, maintenance and shift. The scientists in the Centre of Prof. Bronius Vaškelis’ Literary Comparativistics are occupied with researching and comparing works by artists of different nationalities, looking for relations between different areas of art, tracing the influence of environment on the texts and their authors.
At the Culture Research Centre, the phenomena of modern Lithuanian urban culture are investigated, as well as the specifics and activities of various subculture communities and the virtual culture formed by the computer technologies. The Centre of Kaunas’ History researches many different aspects of the city and region of Kaunas and the university. This centre frequently holds international and national scientific conferences, implements research programmes and projects, organizes expeditions and collects a historical bibliography of the research areas in the centre. The researchers associated with the Centre for Intercultural Communication and Multilingualism 039
T H E FA C U LT Y O F I N F O R M AT I C S FA C U LT Y C O M M U N I T Y
MINOR STUDY PROGRAMMES
C O N TA C T S
approx. 350 students over 40 teachers and research fellows
Informatics Mathematics and its Application Multimedia and Internet Technologies
Vileikos str. 8-409, LT-44404, Kaunas Phone (+370 37) 327 900 Fax (+370 37) 327 896 dek@if.vdu.lt http://if.vdu.lt
FA C U LT Y S T R U C T U R E
Departments of Applied Informatics, Systems’ Analysis, Mathematics and Statistics Laboratories of the Internet and Mobile Solutions, Computer Controlled Systems and Multimedia, Laboratory of Computer Networks BA STUDY PROGRAMMES
*
Informatics Mathematics and its Application Multimedia and Internet Technologies Computer Technologies of Creative
Industries ***
EXCHANGE OPPORTUNITIES
One-semester studies at the universities in Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Latvia, Norway, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey, United Kingdom by Erasmus exchange programme and by VMU bilateral collaborative agreements. Students may gain practical experience by making use of Erasmus work placement program in enterprises and organisations in all EU countries as well as in Island, Norway, Lichtenstein, Turkey and Switzerland.
* This study programme is carried out in English and is offered to English-speaking students as full-time degree programmes.
MA STUDY PROGRAMMES
**
Applied Informatics Applied Mathematics Business Informatics
**
** These study programmes are carried
out in English and in Russian and are offered to English-speaking and Russian-speaking students as full-time degree programmes.
*** This programme is planned to be launched in 2014.
04 0
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tudies at the VMU Faculty of Informatics are not limited to acquisition of traditional knowledge of informatics and mathematics, thus they attract not just those interested in computers, formulas, calculations and algorithms or programming. The faculty is oriented towards universal education, as the studies include knowledge related not only to a particular specialty, but also to other sciences which share common ties with informatics. Students expand their horizons and become educated personalities able to creatively apply modern instruments of informatics and mathematics in professional practices of various areas. The faculty offers BSc and MSc degree study programmes, adapted to the needs of modern society. In addition to gaining the most important knowledge of informatics and mathematics, the students also learn to apply it while working towards business management solutions, designing services for users of modern networks, creating virtual reality and virtual communities, analyzing language texts and sounds of music, composing images or imitating thought processes. Alumni of the faculty work as programmers, system administrators, researchers, analysts, project managers, company CEOs, etc. They claim that the main advantage of studies at the VMU
Faculty of Informatics is the wide span of knowledge offered, which transcends the limits of the specialty. An opportunity to improve the skills acquired at the university is provided by the Erasmus student exchange programme, which gives students a chance to study at universities in European countries for one or two semesters.
in which they actively communicate with the university’s community and present perspectives for work at their companies, share experiences and invite students to do internship.
Together with faculty teachers and researchers, students are able to participate in scientific and utilitarian projects supported by national and EU funds. Research results are used in the implementation of information society development projects, which are considered very high priority by the European Union. Modern equipment is available for use at the laboratories of Computer Controlled Systems, Internet and Mobile Solutions and Multimedia, as well as the centres of Computer Linguistics, Energetic Security Research and other labs or centres. One of the aims here is to link the theoretical knowledge to relevant examples of its application; therefore, the faculty maintains close ties with scientific research institutes and advanced companies of information technology, telecommunications and other areas. The graduates of the faculty have brought themselves together into a club of the faculty’s Alumni, 04 1
T H E FA C U LT Y O F L AW FA C U LT Y C O M M U N I T Y approx. 700–800 students 15–20 permanent lecturers 10–15 visiting foreign lecturers
FA C U LT Y S T R U C T U R E
Departments of Public Law and Private Law
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
I N T E G R AT E D S T U D Y P R O G R A M M E
Academic law club, ELSA VDU (European Law Students’ Association)
Integrated Legal Studies
**
MINOR STUDY PROGRAMME Law
International Business Law
* This study programme is carried out in
English and is offered to English-speaking students as full-time degree programme.
** This programme encompasses both
MA STUDY PROGRAMME
*
EXCHANGE OPPORTUNITIES
One-semester studies at the universities in Bulgaria, Check Republic, Croatia, Estonia, Finland, France, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Turkey by Erasmus exchange programme and by VMU bilateral collaborative agreements. Two-semester studies at one of the member universities of
04 2
Campus Europae. Students may gain practical experience by making use of Erasmus work placement program in enterprises and organisations in all EU countries as well as in Island, Norway, Lichtenstein, Turkey and Switzerland.
undergraduate (Bachelor’s) and graduate (Master’s) study levels with the total studying duration of 5 years. It is designed to prepare lawyers and legal specialists. The graduates are awarded a qualifying degree of Master of Law and professional lawyer’s qualification. C O N TA C T S
E. Ožeškienės g. 18, LT-44254, Kaunas Phone (+370 37) 751 044 dek@tf.vdu.lt http://law.vdu.lt
L
egal studies at VMU were prepared according to the model of Western universities. This model was chosen in no small part due to demand for highly qualified lawyers who would possess a wide liberal education, fluency in legal English and ability to work in both Lithuania and abroad. Currently, the faculty provides integrated studies of law, which encompass the Bachelor’s and Master’s level studies. For the graduates, the degree of the Master of Law and the professional qualification of a lawyer are awarded. Students of the Faculty of Law have the opportunity to get the Michigan State University Certificate in Transnational Law, in addition to their VMU Master’s degree diploma. The certificate testifies that the faculty’s alumnus has passed the main courses of international law and has a good command of legal English. VMU is the first university in Lithuania and one of the few in Europe to have signed an agreement of such kind with one of the most prestigious universities in the USA. The Faculty of Law is exceptional due to its unique teaching methods, which promote the Socratic Method during the lectures. Rather than having the teacher speak and the students take notes, an unconventional approach, practiced in the most prestigious American universities, is taken. During discussions and practical activities, the students analyze specific cases where legal regulations are applied
and solve exercises of collision law by applying Q & A form. Lectures proceed in the same manner in the USA and the most advanced European law schools. Another aspect contributing to the warm and collegial atmosphere surrounding teachers and students is the fact that the Faculty of Law is comprised of young and promising lecturers, who respect the courage, creativity and initiative of the students.
A large part of the subjects offered by the VMU Faculty of Law are taught by lawyers and legal experts from higher education institutions in the United States, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Italy, Spain and other countries.
Well qualified scientists and specialists of their fields (civil, criminal, administrative law and other legal areas) are teaching at the faculty, ensuring that the knowledge and skills required by professionally practicing lawyers in Lithuania are imparted upon the students. Since many of the teachers are practicing lawyers, the students are acquainted not only with all essential elements of the law in Lithuania, but also with the issues that the lawyers face when applying the law in practical situations, which are frequently looked at during the lectures. Considering it one of their top priorities, scientists at the faculty pay due attention to the influence of globalization on legal issues. The study material is kept fresh and relevant. Research results are presented at special conferences organized by the faculty and the Baltic Journal of Law & Politics, an English-language scientific journal published by the Faculty of Law in collaboration with the Faculty of Political Science and Diplomacy. 04 3
THE MUSIC ACADEMY ACADEMY COMMUNITY
EXCHANGE OPPORTUNITIES
approx. 220 students approx. 100 lecturers approx. 30 accompanists
One-semester studies at the universities in Austria, Germany, Denmark, Spain, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia, United Kingdom by Erasmus exchange programme and by VMU bilateral collaborative agreements. Students may gain practical experience by making use of Erasmus work placement program in enterprises and organisations in all EU countries as well as in Island, Norway, Lichtenstein, Turkey and Switzerland.
FA C U LT Y S T R U C T U R E
Departments of Instrumental Music, Jazz, Music Theory and Pedagogy, Piano, Singing BA STUDY PROGRAMMES Music Pedagogy Performance Art
COMMUNITY AC TIVITIES
MA STUDY PROGRAMMES Directing Cultural Events
**
MINOR STUDY PROGRAMMES Performance Art
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The lecturers and students of the Music Academy often engage in collaborative activities, such as concerts, music projects, preparation and participation in concerts (in Lithuania and abroad). Some of the academy’s students play in a symphony orchestra, brass and percussion ensembles, regularly perform in concerts and participate in continuing artistic projects both in Lithuania and abroad.
** This programme is planned to be launched after approval by the Centre for Quality Assessment in Higher Education. C O N TA C T S
V. Čepinskio g. 5 LT-46257, Kaunas Phone (+370 37) 295 411 Fax (+370 37) 295 411 dek@ma.vdu.lt; darbuotojai@ma.vdu.lt http://ma.vdu.lt
Đš
aunas boasts deep-rooted traditions of training professional musicians, continuing since at least the beginning of the 20th century. Artists that were groomed in a Kaunas’ music school of higher education during the interwar period contributed vastly to the culture of both the provisional capital and the country. Suspended during the Soviet years, the training of musicians with highest qualification resumed in Kaunas in 1989. VMU Music Academy is a constantly changing, dynamic part of the university, where the best traditions of music education (great attention to the mastering of the performing arts, the lecturers sharing their professional experience directly and teaching a particular specialty in a consistent manner) are balanced with broad general university education (studies of the languages, the humanities and social sciences), helping to educate an individual who is intellectual, creative and able to easily adapt to the job market. The Music Academy is maintaining and constantly strengthening close ties with social partners, heads and employees of various cultural and educational institutions (theatres, music collectives, philharmonics, music schools and gymnasiums). These ties help to create conditions for the future professionals to acquire practical experience in concerts and pedagogy while they
are still studying, and successfully fill a job position in the same field after they have graduated. Close contact between the lecturers and the students during the studies often evolves into further creative collaborations. Currently the VMU Music Academy prepares professional performers of instrumental music, singers, choral conductors and teachers. It has recently started offering the fulltime Master’s degree programme of Performance Art in English. The programme can be studied while focusing on one of the following specializations: piano, strings (guitar, alto, double-bass, violin, cello), brass and woodwind (bassoon, flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, French horn, trumpet, baritone, trombone, tuba), percussion and jazz (bass guitar, singing, flute, piano, guitar, clarinet, percussion, saxophone, trumpet, trombone), stage genre singing, accompaniment, chamber ensemble (strings, woodwind, brass, piano and percussion), concert genre singing, and conducting.
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T H E FA C U LT Y O F N AT U R A L S C I E N C E S FA C U LT Y C O M M U N I T Y
MINOR STUDY PROGRAMMES
approx. 700 students approx. 60 lecturers and research fellows
Biochemistry Biology Biotechnology Environmental Sciences and Ecology Energy Technologies
FA C U LT Y S T R U C T U R E
Departments of Environmental Sciences, Biochemistry and Biotechnologies, Biology, Physics
BA STUDY PROGRAMMES Biochemistry Biology Biotechnology Environmental Sciences and Ecology Energy Technologies
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MA STUDY PROGRAMMES
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EXCHANGE OPPORTUNITIES
One-semester studies at the universities in Estonia, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden, Slovenia, Turkey by Erasmus exchange programme and by VMU bilateral collaborative agreements. Students may gain practical experience by making use of Erasmus work placement program in enterprises and organisations in all EU countries as well as in Island, Norway, Lichtenstein, Turkey and Switzerland.
Centre of Environmental Research
Biochemical Analysis Energy and Environment Environmental Management Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Physics
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FA C U LT Y S T U D E N T A C T I V I T I E S
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Academic community of young scientists “Modusas”, VMU Enivornmental studies club Disoma
* These study programmes are carried out in English and are offered to English-speaking students as full-time degree programmes. C O N TA C T S
Vileikos g. 8-212, LT-44404, Kaunas Phone (+370 37) 327 902 dek@gmf.vdu.lt http://gmf.vdu.lt
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s the attention to biology, biochemistry, environmental protection, ecology, alternative energy sources, climate change and other issues keeps growing worldwide, the popularity of study programmes at the Faculty of Natural Sciences has also grown substantially in the recent years. Currently, the faculty offers Bachelor’s degree study programmes of Biochemistry, Biology, Biotechnology, Environmental Sciences and Ecology, and Energy Technologies. The first-level studies prepare graduates who acquire knowledge not only in the specific study field of their choice, but also the basics of physics and biomedicine concerning origins and evolution of the universe, the genetic basics of life, the interplay between people and natural environment, the effect of various technologies on the development of society, trends of sustainable development, etc. In addition to this, the students also attend general education subjects of the humanities, social sciences, informatics and foreign languages.
research centres of other Lithuanian scientific and educational institutions as well. Postgraduate and doctoral students may contribute to the research projects carried out by the professors of their department. The Bachelor’s and Master’s degree study programmes are frequently updated according to the experiences and research innovations of universities in Western Europe and the United States. All of the study programmes at the faculty have received high praise from foreign experts and satisfy the requirements of modern study programmes at European universities.
The Faculty of Natural Sciences boasts modern and constantly renewed studying facilities which have been kept up-to-date by courtesy of the EU structural funds for the last couple of years. Students can undertake research not only in the modern labs at VMU, but in the 04 7
T H E FA C U LT Y O F P O L I T I C A L SCIENCE AND DIPLOMACY FA C U LT Y C O M M U N I T Y approx. 1700 students approx. 70 lecturers and research fellows
Eastern Europe (MIREES) (Joint-degree) *
FA C U LT Y S T R U C T U R E
MINOR STUDY PROGRAMMES
Departments of Political Science, Public Administration, Public Communications, Regional Studies, Social and Political Theory Centres of Asian Studies, Czesław Miłosz
Political Science Public Administration Public Communications International Politics and
BA STUDY PROGRAMMES
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Global Politics and Economy Political Science Public Administration Public Communications International Politics and Development
MA STUDY PROGRAMMES Administration of State Institutions Baltic Sea Region Studies Contemporary European Politics Diplomacy and International Relations East Asia Region Studies Integrated Communication Journalism and Media Analysis Public Policy and Administration of the
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European Union
Development Studies *
EXCHANGE OPPORTUNITIES
Studies *
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Social and Political Critique Interdisciplinary Research and Studies on
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One-semester studies at the universities in Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, Turkey, United Kingdom by Erasmus exchange programme and by VMU bilateral collaborative agreements. Two-semester studies at one of the member universities of Campus Europae. Students may gain practical experience by making use of Erasmus work placement programme in enterprises and organisations in all EU countries as well as in Island, Norway, Lichtenstein, Turkey and Switzerland.
FA C U LT Y S T U D E N T A C T I V I T I E S
Academic Club of Political Scientists, Faculty Students’ Initiative, VMU Radio, etc.
* These study programmes are carried out in English and are offered to English-speaking students as full-time degree programmes. C O N TA C T S
Gedimino g. 44-102, 44240, Kaunas Phone (+370 37) 206 709 Fax (+370 37) 206 709 dek@pmdf.vdu.lt http://www.pmdf.vdu.lt
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aculty of Political Science and Diplomacy at VMU is the leading Lithuanian centre for studies and research of political science, political philosophy, public administration, public communications, journalism, and regional studies. It offers modern international programmes of interdisciplinary character that have proven to be popular among both local and foreign students. The faculty attracts students from all over the world by offering high quality study programmes in both Lithuanian and in English, extensive opportunities to improve at other European, American or Asian universities, and an open, collegial and multicultural environment. Students are introduced to a flexible study system and a choice of subjects according to their own needs and hobbies. All of this provides them with excellent opportunities to become not just experts of their own field, but also critical thinkers who possess associated skills especially needed for successful careers and sustainable living in information-rich and networking contemporary societies. The study programmes here pull in the brightest graduates and involve not just political science and diplomacy, regional and international politics, but public administration and communication studies as well – students are provided with the necessary skills for future work as media and PR specialists, public sector
workers, employees at diplomatic structures, EU-related institutions in Lithuania and abroad, communication and media companies, etc. The faculty is closely collaborating with the best universities in Europe and around the world. Every year, the Erasmus exchange programme and bilateral agreements allow students and teachers to visit universities in the United Kingdom, Austria, Germany, Denmark, Spain, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Poland, Italy, Sweden, Norway, the USA, South Korea, Taiwan and other countries. Students gain a wealth of theoretical and practical knowledge and get to know foreign cultures and languages. Since its opening in 2000, the faculty has been the home for the Academic Club of Political Scientists (www. PolitologuKlubas.lt), which organizes Republican Student Olympics of Political Science, meetings and discussions with local politicians, scientists and public figures. In 2013 the club was awarded by the national Parliament as the leading academic youth organization in Lithuania. Students of public communications as well as their faculty colleagues are also engaged in various radio (www.VDUradijas.lt), TV (www. TVDU.lt), online media (www.Jauti.lt), and print journalism projects.
leads to effective organization of studies, seminars, conferences and interdisciplinary scientific and applied research projects. The Faculty of Political Science and Diplomacy is also involved in the implementation of the Interdisciplinary Master’s in East European Research and Studies (MIREES), a study programme launched in cooperation with four other European universities. The lectures at the faculty are taught not only by local and visiting professors but also by diplomats from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, heads of Lithuanian representations abroad, members of the European Parliament, members of the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania, specialists from various ministries, journalists, public organizations’ leaders, and experts. The students have great opportunities to do their professional internship in the Office of the President of the Republic of Lithuania, different Offices of the Seimas and the Government, other governmental as well as non-governmental institutions, and organisations.
Just like other divisions of VMU, the faculty nurtures ideals of liberal arts, while its departments and centres maintain close collaborations. This 04 9
T H E FA C U LT Y O F SOCIAL SCIENCES FA C U LT Y C O M M U N I T Y
MA STUDY PROGRAMMES
approx. 1500 students approx. 70 lecturers and 8 research
Applied Sociology Career Designing Management of Education Management of Education Quality Health Psychology Organisational Psychology School Psychology Social Anthropology Social Work
fellows FA C U LT Y S T R U C T U R E
Departments of Education Sciences, General Psychology, Theoretic Psychology, Social Work, Sociology Centres of Social Research, Vocational Training and Research, Educational Study, Social Anthropology, Social Work Competences, Psychological Clinic BA STUDY PROGRAMMES Career and Professional Counselling Education and Information
Technologies ** Psychology Social Policy Social Work Sociology and Anthropology
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MINOR STUDY PROGRAMMES Psychology Social Policy Social Work Sociology Pedagogics Career guidance
programme and by VMU bilateral collaborative agreements. Two-semester studies at one of the member universities of Campus Europae. Students may gain practical experience by making use of Erasmus work placement program in enterprises and organisations in all EU countries as well as in Island, Norway, Lichtenstein, Turkey and Switzerland. FA C U LT Y S T U D E N T A C T I V I T I E S
Club of social work students “Vesta”, Young Teacher Club, Sociology Student Club,VMU Psychology Students’ Association
* These study programmes are carried out in English and are offered to English-speaking students as full-time degree programmes.
EXCHANGE OPPORTUNITIES
** Distance study programme.
One-semester studies at the universities in Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Malta, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Sweden, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom by Erasmus exchange
K. Donelaičio g. 52-301, LT-44244, Kaunas Phone: (+370 37) 327 820, 323 131 Fax: (+370 37) 327 823 dek@smf.vdu.lt http://smf.vdu.lt
C O N TA C T S
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he faculty of Social Sciences at Vytautas Magnus University focuses on research and studies of the nature, behavior and development of an individual, community and society. The Faculty unites professors and students whose scope of interests involves studying behavior, functioning and development of individuals, groups, organizations, communities and society, analyzing learning processes, career development, issues and methods of education, developing social services, social justice and human rights. Studies at the Faculty of Social Sciences are based on the culture of discussions, development of critical thinking, creativity, synergy between theory and practice. The mission of the Faculty is creation of new knowledge and activities in collaboration with diverse social groups and communities, striving to nurture strengths and dignity of a person, cherish social welfare and develop creating society on local, national and international level. The Faculty values creativity, diversity and collaboration, focuses on the innovative studies and breakthrough research, cherishes personal freedom and responsibility in the face of social change. Faculty offers unique opportunities for international European and transatlantic studies. Joint doctoral degree programme in Education has been established with the University of Aveiro (Portugal). Professors and students participate in joint
projects and exchange programmes. Professors from the Southern Illinois University (USA) give lectures in the Social Anthropology Master programme. VMU Students obtain the Anthropology certificate from the Southern Illinois University (USA). Joint lectures with the Chicago Loyola University (USA) take place via weekly video conferencing. VMU students in social work obtain the attendance certificate from the Loyola University Chicago. The „International Journal of Psychology: a Biopsychosocial approach“ is published in collaboration with the University of Nebraska at Kearney (USA). Annual joint video conferences with psychology students presenting their academic research are held. Durint their studies at Faculty of Social science students are involved in the research projects carried out by the teachers, students participate in the empirical field research, analyze gathered data and later present their findings during the conferences or even publish them.
adult education and learning; technologies enhanced learning; career design; education quality management; sociology of family, gender and sexuality; civil society and political participation; environmental, consumption and health sociology; social exclusion; sociology and anthropology of religion and new religious movements; migration studies; analysis of the vulnerable people’s experiences and social work practice and professionalism in social work from the critical, feminist and social construction perspectives; research on social services and social policy from the perspective of empowerment, human rights and social justice.
Major research areas at the Faculty are: psychological issues in health promoting and stress coping; risk taking behavior in different age groups; psychological issues in organizational development and employee wellbeing; outcome of psychological interventions; psychological issues in teaching and learning; use of the theory of individual psychology in school and organizational settings; vocational education and training;
Periodically published journals on social sciences testify to the quality of studies and research. International scientific databases include the faculty’s journals “The Quality of Higher Education”, “Vocational Education: Research and Reality”, “International Journal of Psychology: a Biopsychosocial Approach”, “Social Work: Experience and Methods” and “Culture and Society: Journal of Social Research”.
The Psychology Clinic’s priority action is free psychological counseling of VMU students. The Psychology Clinic organizes regular training and public education events, as well as the annual scientific conferences for school children where teachers and students present their research.
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W AT E R Doctoral Studies Innovative Research
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DOCTORAL STUDIES
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ytautas Magnus University has a distinct advantage which is connected to its young, promising doctoral students. PhD studies at VMU open up unique possibilities for academic research and studies, which contribute to the development of a future generation of highly qualified specialists. Graduates of doctoral studies of VMU are capable of conducting independent scientific research and experimental (social, cultural) development, not to mention solving hot-button issues of Lithuanian, European and global science. After VMU was granted the permission to provide PhD studies in 18 scientific fields in 2011, the education at this level went through a complete overhaul, leading to the establishment of joint and interinstitutional PhD studies. The best scientists of the country (and, in some cases, from abroad) were brought to work together in every field and the networks of PhD studies in various fields were created. The focus in developing PhD studies at university is to achieve that they give students a geographical and interdisciplinary mobility as well as interinstitutional and international cooperation.
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BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES
SOCIAL SCIENCES
Biophysics / Lithuanian University of Health
Education / Vytautas Magnus
Sciences with Vytautas Magnus University Biology / Vytautas Magnus University with Nature Research Centre, Centre of Innovative Medicine, University of Latvia, Agder University (Norway) Ecology and environmental science / Vytautas Magnus University with Aleksandras Stulginskis University, Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry PHYSICAL SCIENCES Biochemistry / Vytautas Magnus
University with Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology (Poland) Informatics / Kaunas University of Technology with Vytautas Magnus University HUMANITIES Ethnology / Vytautas Magnus University
with Klaipėda University, Lithuanian History Institute Philology / Vytautas Magnus University with Klaipėda University, Šiauliai University, Lithuanian Language Institute Philosophy / Vytautas Magnus University with Lithuanian Culture Research Institute, European Humanitarian University History / Vytautas Magnus University with Klaipėda University Art Criticism / Vytautas Magnus University with Lithuanian University of Educational Sciences Theology / Vytautas Magnus University
University with Klaipėda University, Mykolas Romeris University,Vilnius University, Aveiro University (Portugal) Economics / Vytautas Magnus University with Aleksandras Stulginskis University, ISM University of Management and Economics, Mykolas Romeris University, Šiauliai University Political Sciences / Vytautas Magnus University with The General Jonas Zemaitis Military Academy of Lithuania, Kaunas University of Technology, Klaipėda university Psychology / Vytautas Magnus University with Mykolas Romeris University, University of Cordoba (Spain) Social Work / Vytautas Magnus University with (memorandum of cooperation) Lapland University, Finland Sociology / Vytautas Magnus University with Kaunas University of Technology, Lithuanian Social Research Centre Law / Vytautas Magnus University with Mykolas Romeris University Management and Administration / Vytautas Magnus University with Klaipėda University, Aleksandras Stulginskis University, Mykolas Romeris University, Šiauliai University More information – www.vdu.lt/phdstudiesineng
I N N O VAT I V E RESEARCH
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he scientists of Vytautas Magnus University have accumulated solid experience in international scientific research and project management. The strength of VMU lies in its ability to involve young scientists in scientific activities, providing doctoral students at the university with ideal conditions for not only developing theoretical and methodological knowledge of a particular scientific area, but also carrying out internationally significant research, participating in international projects and internships abroad, teaching lectures and conducting seminars at VMU and foreign universities. Seeking to integrate research from a variety of fields, 36 groups of active scientists have been formed.
RESEARCH AREAS HUMANITIES Applied Research of Intercultural
Communication and Translation Problems Connections Between Texts of Literature and Culture Processes Digital Research of Text and Voice, Development and Application of Resources and Technologies Disintegration of Communism and PostCommunist Transformations
Interdisciplinary Research of Lithuanian Cities Interdisciplinary Research of Social
Minority Groups Lithuanian Military History and Heritage Research Cluster Nation and Tradition in the Modern World: Ethnological Studies Religious and cultural studies Research of Human Relationships in Bioethics Research of Intercultural Art Exchange in Eastern and Central Europe: Global Contexts and Local Practices Research of Migration and the Diaspora Research of Multiculturalism and Language Change in the Context of Globalization Research of the Identity of Lithuanian Art History and Cultural Heritage Research of the Multilingual Competence Development Research of the Practical Philosophy Studies of the society and the state of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania The Church’s Relations with the Government and Society in Lithuania ARTS Dimension of Music Education
SOCIAL SCIENCES Citizenship and Identity in Modern Society European Public Sphere: Politics,
Communication, Discourse Managerial transformations for the
development of a socially sustainable society and a competitive state Marketing Management Research in Contemporary Environment Psychosocial Functioning of an Individual and Psychological Possibilities of Its Improvement in Organizations and Institutions of Education and Health Research of the Impact of Globalization on the Law The Centre for Research in Lifelong Learning Transdisciplinary research in area studies BIOMEDICINE AND PHYSICS Analysis of Systems, Modeling,
Management and Optimization Application of Innovation Technologies to the Research of Health Risks Raised by Climate Change and Environmental Pollution Biophysics for Bio-nanotechnology and Biomedicine (BIOMEDTECH) Development of Instrumental Analysis Methods and their Application to Molecular Analysis of Biological Objects, Synthetic Products and the Environment The Effect of Anthropogenic Environmental Changes and the Climate to Ecosystems Methods of Safety, Reliability and Risk Molecular Bioenergetics Research on Delivery of Medicine and Genes to Cells and Tissues Sustainable energy
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SULFUR Thinking Different, and Thinking Green as Applied at VMU World Lithuanian University 056
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T H I N K I N G D I F F E R E N T, a n d T H I N K I N G GREEN as applied at VMU “VMU Go Green!“ is the university’s project which seeks to bring our academic community together and encourages people to take care of environment. Although this project may be looked at as if having a very direct link to environmental issues and concerns, we do seek much more. We do indeed think and invest into improvement of our physical surroundings and mobility areas, geographic places and architectural spaces. We do seriously care about health issues and safety of our people. But additionally to those matters (which come naturally to us) we do believe that “ecologic thinking“ and “social ecology“ also have power and potential to bring many more additional qualities to our lives. The development of empathy, of genuine
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concern for others – this is what really inspires us in our everyday academic encounters. For us, ecologic thinking is a much broader concept than just the care for nature and environment. For us it also covers many things which have social and cultural meanings; we also see it as closely connected to the metaphor of artes liberales and the creative ways of meaning-making that this idea encourages. And not only encourages but provides real-life instruments (e.g., study programmes and creative projects supported through VMU funds) of how these calls could be applied in real life learning situations. We believe that this helps us to be better citizens, and to build better, safer and more open cities and societies.
WORLD LITHUANIAN UNIVERSITY
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ytautas Magnus University, which was re-established thanks to the joint efforts of Lithuanian and Diaspora scientists, seeks to become the academic and cultural centre of all Lithuanians around the world: World Lithuanian University (WLU). With its activities, WLU improves mutual collaboration and social connections between scientists, artists and students in Lithuania and the Diaspora. At the same time, WLU functions as a conceptual, virtual entity, which is open to initiatives of various clubs, associations, communities, etc. World Lithuanian University cooperates with Lithuanian / Baltic centres around the world. Aside from fostering and developing relations with Diaspora communities, the WLU also holds seminars, conferences and publishes books on issues of Lithuanian emigration, re-emigration, questions of identity change, etc. World Lithuanian University gathers and publishes information on opportunities and uses other ways to promote involvement of young scientists and researchers in the activities of VMU. It also organizes film viewings and exhibitions related to the Diaspora.
WLU provides an opportunity for the best students and researchers of Vytautas Magnus University to study and do internships abroad. The internships are funded by nominal scholarships established by the university’s sponsors. One of them is Francoise Puzyna-Mockūnas, the widow of famous Diaspora figure late Liūtas Mockūnas. She says that young people must travel, live abroad, and gain experience of living in a multicultural environment. “Then, after coming back to Lithuania, they will be able to promote innovative ideas, transform the work ethic and create business-friendly conditions”, the sponsor pointed out. Activities managed by WLU also include a multitude of other scientific and education projects, such as research on Lithuanian Diaspora heritage, migrantology studies and Lithuanian education. World Lithuanian University@ VMU aims to unite World Lithuanians, encourages mutual academic and cultural projects, and therefore nurtures the concept of global Lithuania.
WLU PROJEC TS SUMMER ACADEMY Internship Program is offered to university
students from all around the world, who are invited to participate in professional internships. The participants gain global professional experience in addition to polishing their Lithuanian language skills and strengthening cultural and historical knowledge. Summer School welcomes high school studens
of Lithuanian descent who are who is interested in deepening their knowledge of Lithuanian language, culture and history. It is a great opportunity to spend a fun week in Kaunas and make new Lithuanian friends from all around the world. Lithuanian Culture and Language Summer
Course invites foreign students to improve their knowledge of the Lithuanian language, to learn grammar, to get familiar with Lithuanian culture, society, traditions, politics and history. Introductory Summer Course (“Refresh in
Lithuania”) was launched in order to assemble young and diligent people of Lithuanian descent who want to strengthen their connection to Lithuania. P R O J E C T S O F L I T H U A N I A N E D U C AT I O N
One of the projects is dedicated to the creation of the integral studies module and virtual library, which will serve the teaching process of the Lithuanian language and culture abroad. In the other project, VMU cooperates and helps students and teachers improve their knowledge about Lithuania and raise their qualifications. More information – www.pasauliolietuviai.lt/en
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EARTH After Lectures Student Organizations Exploring VMU Vibrant City of Kaunas Places To Discover in Kaunas 060
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AFTER LECTURES
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ost of the VMU students’ creative activities are managed by VMU Arts Centre, which handles initiatives in both performing and visual arts. The latter category is supported by VMU Gallery 101. The Arts Centre also works with the Department of Theatre Studies, organizing activities of the Theatre Discussion Club, which unites fans and professionals of the stage. VMU Theatre is the first professional university theatre in Lithuania, a new theatrical space, a studio and a lab for joint projects by recognised and promising young artists from Lithuania and abroad. The theatre manager is Goda Piktytė, winner of the Golden Cross of the Stage. VMU Chamber Orchestra is a collective of young, enthusiastic, talented and aspiring musicians. The orchestra does not restrict itself to classical pieces: its youthful members are open to experiments and do not shy away from performances which transcend the boundaries of the classical genre. Inspired by the performances of the collective, Lithuanian composers write music commissioned by the orchestra, some of it exclusively for these performers.
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VMU Studentų Santara Club organizes meetings and study weekends, incites conversations on interesting, inconvenient or controversial issues. VMU Volunteers’ team offers students a possibility to find new friends, test themselves and get information about the university, to attend instructional trainings and seminars that are organized for them, moreover, they can use their knowledge and skills at real challenges and variors university activities. More information – www.vdu.lt/volunteer VMU International Office offers the students possibility to join VMU Mentor‘s programme, which aims to make the adaptation process of incoming international students at VMU easier, fosters volunteering and increases international experience among VMU students. COMMIT TO BE FIT
Commit to be fit, forget books for a bit! At the VMU Sports Centre, all students can exercise or play sports for free. There you’ll find exercise equipment, aerobics hall, basketball
court, tennis tables, etc. Students themselves show initiative as well, e.g. the recently founded girls’ volleyball team has already achieved some success playing in the national student volleyball league. VMU students may also play in the interfaculty basketball and football matches of the Rector’s Cup, which takes place every year. Those who do not play basketball but wish to support their university teams may become members of the VMU Basketball Fan Club. VMU community is especially proud of its achievements in basketball: the men’s basketball team has become the champion of the Lithuanian Student Basketball League (LSBL) ten times and the runner-up twice. It has also won the European Universities Basketball Championship (EUBC) five times and collected the gold at the SELL Student Games four times. In 2012, the VMU women’s basketball team won the gold medals in the LSBL for the first time. University students have also won awards in judo, orienteering, track-and-field, football, fencing and badminton.
STUDENT O R G A N I Z AT I O N S VMU Student Representative Council seeks welfare for the students, represents their interests at a local, national and international level.The fundamental goals of the Council are: to help students solve their issues, explain the academic nuances of their own Alma Mater and in the field of Lithuanian Higher Education.
Student Initiative and Media Inovation Center implements various projects as VMU Radio (it encompasses radio shows, music news reports, event management, etc.), Jauti.lt (students‘ blog, where young people shares their ideas), Fokusas student TV, DNA of Play (news about new computer games and it‘s reviews), New Generation (news portal which discusses recent political, social, economical events).
ESN VMU works in the interest of international students to improve their social and practical integration, give the opportunity for local students to learn about other cultures, develop their intercultural tolerance and teach them to appreciate volunteering and active citizenship.
ELSA VMU, a branch of the European Law Students’ Association in Lithuania, aims to help students and graduates of the Faculty of Law improve their theoretical and practical legal knowledge, professional and organizational skills, etc.
The Miguel de Cervantes Spanish Language and Culture Club is dedicated to the propagation of Spanish language and
culture and the introduction of the history, literature, culture and customs of Spanishspeaking countries. The Japanese Club Hashi brings together the fans of Japanese culture in Kaunas. In Hashi’s weekly meetings, its members watch Japanese movies, drink tea, play games and participate in discussions.
Modusas is the scientific society of academic youth at the Faculty of Natural Sciences, which is dedicated to the propagation of natural sciences, environmental protection and scientific knowledge in the society and the academic community.
VMU Enivornmental studies club Disoma encourages the community to live in a safe and environment friendly surroundings, unite young people who are interested in environmental problems and it‘s solutions.
VMU Economicus is an economist club which unites students interested in economics and gives them freedom to seek self-fulfilment and self-education outside of studies.
VMU History Club seeks to expand historical knowledge in the books with practical activities, to spark interest not just in facts but in places or events, provoke a discussion and, most importantly, draw in a crowd of enthusiastic people who would be gladly sharing and implementing ideas.
Theatre Discussion Club seeks to make the public openly discuss theatre and arts and culture in general, encourage creation of discussion culture in Lithuania and wants to raise the interest of academic youth in the arts and culture; it also looks for interdisciplinary ties between arts and other scientific fields.
Adomas Mickevičius Polish Language and Culture Club is dedicated to the propagation of Polish language and culture and the introduction of the history, literature, culture, arts, traditions and study possibilities in Poland.
Philosophy club Agora urges students and lecturers to discuss philosophical texts in an informal environment. The club also organizes the film screening series Philosophy in Cinema. History students are active members of the International Students of History Association (ISHA).
Other informal student clubs: Japanese language and culture club Hashi, South Korean language and culture club Hallyu, Chinese language and culture club Wu Wei, Lithuanian and Latvian culture club Balts, Eastern culture club Divan Fan Club, Humanist culture Collegium Artes Liberales, the Aula Magna Music Association, VMU Psicholgy Student Asosciation, Academic Club of Political Scientists.
University‘s partner organization: AIESEC Kaunas is a youth education platform which provides opportunities to develop skills necessary in today’s world or in the near future. 063
EXPLORING VMU
VMU AULA MAGNA {Gimnazijos g. 7}
K A U N A S B O TA N I C A L G A R D E N {Ž. E. Žilibero g. 6}
V M U G R E AT H A L L {S. Daukanto g. 28}
The VMU Aula Magna became the location of numerous cultural and academic events after the restoration of the building of the VMU Faculty of Catholic Theology. In 2003, the city’s music scene was substantially livened up as the acoustically impressive hall of Aula Magna became a popular spot for holding chamber concerts. They are organized once a month by the Aula Magna Music Association and the Chamber Music Support Foundation.
The VMU Kaunas Botanical Garden (KBG) is an exceptional green space that appeals to more than just nature lovers. It was founded in 1923 as a division of the University of Lithuania (later Vytautas Magnus University) in a spacious green area with an old park, some picturesque ponds and several buildings of the former Aukštoji Freda Manor. Botanical expositions and collections (more than 7,300 plant taxa by now) are presented in the greenhouse and in the park. Currently the garden consists of four sectors: Medicinal Plants, Dendrology, Pomology, and Floriculture. These collections are important both for plant conservation and for raising public awareness of environmental issues. The KBG is also a venue of modern interactive education, cultural tourism and community service. It is visited by over 50,000 people annually. University students may appreciate the garden as a niche for various activities and projects, including volunteering, cultural events and practical application of knowledge gained while studying.
This hall is a busy place – diploma awards ceremony, concerts, dancing and theatre plays are just a few examples of events organized here. Some of the most significant annual cultural events and festivals of Kaunas also take place here, such as Kaunas Jazz and International Festival of Modern Dance.
SUGIHARA HOUSE {J. T. Vaižganto g. 30}
Before World War II, between 1939 and 1940, the vice-consul of the Japanese Consulate Chiune (Sempo) Sugihara resided in this house. Jewish people from Lithuania, Poland and Germany received Japanese transit visas from Sugihara, who saved almost 6000 innocent lives in this way. Currently the Sugihara House is both a museum and a public institution, offering a look at the exposition “Visas That Saved Lives” and serving as the location of the VMU Centre for Asian Studies.
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P R E S I D E N T VA L D A S A D A M K U S ’ LIBRARY-MUSEUM {S. Daukanto g. 25}
It was founded with participation of the President Valdas Adamkus himself, who is also VMU Honorary Doctor. The librarymuseum holds not just books but also various possessions of Valdas Adamkus: furniture, paintings, other interior items, sports trophies, diaries, archive containing mostly documents related to the President’s activities in the USA. The library seeks to become a centre of culture, science and arts which researches world Lithuanians and the political, economical and cultural life in Lithuania in late 20th and early 21st century.
THE MUSIC ACADEMY {V. Čepinskio g. 5}
The building of the VMU Music Academy is worth a look not just because it is now swarming with crowds of musical talents seeking education – this is also a significant educational landmark in the history of Kaunas. Built in 1950s, it first served as a secondary school, later vocational school, until finally finding its purpose as the Kaunas Faculty of the Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre in 1989. Now in the hands of Vytautas Magnus University, the academy continues its mission. Anyone who comes to visit this building is fascinated by the magnificent panoramic view of the Kaunas‘ Old Town seen from the second floor. V M U J A Z Z CO N N E C T I O N S F E S T I VA L
Since 2009, autumn is an especially exciting time for all fans of jazz in Kaunas – it is the time when VMU holds the annual festival Jazz Connections. The event always brings talented local and international performers, ambitious programme, remarkable atmosphere and all kinds of jazz. VMU Rector Prof. Zigmas Lydeka has found the connection here: “Creativity and freedom to experiment – these are the values that best describe both the university and VMU Jazz Connections”.
VMU HISTORY HALL AND M U S E U M O F S. A N D S. LO ZO R A I Č I A I {K. Donelaičio g. 58}
During the interwar period, this now completely renovated building housed the Ministry of Education and the Cabinet of Ministers. Today it is the location of the VMU History Hall and the Museum of S. and S. Lozoraičiai, the father and the son – the former was a diplomat and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, while the latter a diplomat and VMU Honorary Doctor. The museum exhibits personal belongings of the Lozoraičiai family, as well as the collected and maintained archives: video and audio tapes, documents, photos. Authenticity of the exposition allows to reconstruct the environment and spirit of the past times, highlighting the universal historical values through the presentation of these highly respectable people. VMU History Hall and other places of the university offer an exposition illustrating the history of the university and the building itself – archived documents, photos, their reproductions, historical artefacts, possessions and donated exhibits.
ART GALLERY “101” {Laisvės al. 53}
Functioning since 2008, academic art gallery “101” at VMU plays an important role in the intellectual life of the city. Educational projects, lectures, film viewings and exhibitions here present the cultural and historical context of art, with the aim of enriching the life of the urban and academic community, facilitating critical dialogue and interdisciplinary interpretation of art and culture. V M U T H E AT R E {S. Daukanto g. 27}
This is the first professional university theatre in Lithuania and a new theatrical space which is dedicated to joint projects by prominent and promising young artists from Lithuania and abroad. The focus here is on the presentation of various forms of theatrical expression, the cultivation of audiences open to innovations, and the encouragement of innovative trends on stage and in new media art.
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VIBRANT CITY OF KAUNAS
M
ost countries have at least one cozy city which has flourished after giving birth to a university. To this day, these cities remain a strong attraction because of their exceptionally creative and youthful academic atmosphere, exuding an aura of intellectuality. In the United Kingdom, such a rare gem of academic spirit is none other but Oxford; likewise, Italy has Bologna, Poland has Kraków and Estonia has Tartu. Having served as the provisional capital during one of the most important periods of our country‘s history, Kaunas may also be dubbed the most academic city of Lithuania. The distinctive architectural and urban character of the city is undoubtedly the result of its unique situation: exceptionally picturesque frame of nature and strategically comfortable geographic location. Kaunas is a city of waterways, currently positioned at the crossing of two significant international transport routes and looking to get back the lost status of the city by the water. The river valleys, slopes and hills keep Kaunas closely bonded with nature and reveal the distinctive silhouettes of urban landscape and panoramic vistas.
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Kaunas and its architecture are undoubtedly unique in the context of place and region. First and foremost, the city is centuries old, its historical roots being much deeper than many other European cities. The Kaunas Old Town reflects the history of a medieval city. This Gothic city is adorned by buildings of Northern Renaissance, while its suburbs are a magnificent heritage of Baroque architecture. Kaunas is the only city in Lithuania boasting such a rich and unique heritage of the modern interwar architecture. Unlike most European cities, Kaunas has a concentrated exposition of the 1920s–1930s Bauhaus architecture. Foreigners and Lithuanians, guests and tourists are attracted to the city by its world famous festivals of music, dance and visual arts, unconventional projects, museum collections, art galleries and impressive architecture of varying styles and eras. VMU art spaces are cultural hot spots of the city, where various cultural, educational and social activities are carried out: public lectures, discussions, film screenings, music events, exhibitions. VMU scientists
and students are actively involved in the cultural and social life of Kaunas, nurturing the humanist culture of the city, collaborating with social partners in the city and the region. Most of the university’s buildings are situated near the city centre, therefore, academic activities of VMU and the celebrations of the community have become an inseparable part of Kaunas’ daily life. The researchers and students at VMU initiate various campaigns and projects, which contribute to the formation of the city’s image and make its name famous both nationally and internationally. VMU is the partner of the annual Kaunas International Film Festival, Kaunas Dance Theatre Aura, International contemporary textile art festival Kaunas Biennial, Kaunas Photo Festival, Kaunas Architecture Festival, World Lithuanian Youth Association, global student organisation AIESEC and other institutions. The city’s culture is also kept alive by annual events held by university itself: VMU Jazz Connections Festival, Spring Festival, Media Art Days etc. Today the cultural life in Kaunas remains alive, diverse and attractive. Without Kaunas, it would be hard to understand both the history and the current affairs of Lithuanian culture.
PLACES TO DISCOVER IN KAUNAS
K AUNAS C ASTLE
Built in the late 13th century, it is the oldest brick castle in Lithuania and the first one in Kaunas. Kaunas Castle played a significant role in the defence system of the city, suppressing the attacks of the Crusaders and their further movement into Lithuania, including the capital Vilnius. In 1362, after a long siege, the Crusaders destroyed the castle; however, it was later rebuilt and fortified. Kaunas Castle lost its strategic significance after the Battle of Žalgiris (Grunwald). VILNIAUS STREE T
It is the most beautiful and the busiest street in the Old Town, intended only for pedestrians. Long time ago it used to be the main road leading to the Kaunas Town Hall. The majority of its buildings have survived since the 16th century and many of them have been reconstructed. V Y TA U TA S ’ T H E G R E AT C H U R C H {Aleksoto g. 6}
This church was built in the 15th century, which makes it the oldest one in Kaunas. It is one of the first Gothic brick buildings of cross-shaped layout in Kaunas. The building belonged to Franciscan monks and was used as a warehouse of weapons during the Napoleonic Wars.
THE HOUSE OF THUNDER {Aleksoto g. 6}
K AUNAS FUNICULARS {Skriaudžių g. 8 ir Aušros g. 6}
House of Perkūnas is one of the most original and spectacular Gothic buildings in Lithuania. Built at the end of the 15th century by Hanseatic merchants, this brick building with an ornate pediment and spacious cellars is located in Kaunas Old Town, near the Vytautas Church. The real purpose of the building is unknown. There is a legend about a sculpture of the deity Perkūnas found in a wall of the building and about priestesses who took care of the eternal fire; however, the extensive collection of artefacts found by researchers suggests that this was a commercial office that belonged to the Hanseatic Merchants. Currently, the House of Perkūnas belongs to Kaunas Jesuit Gymnasium. The House of Perkūnas accommodates an exhibit of Adomas Mickevičius’ life and works, an art exhibition and concert hall.
Kaunas is the only city in Lithuania which has funiculars, one of the oldest means of transport. The funiculars in Žaliakalnis and Aleksotas are used for two purposes – transportation and pleasure trips. The funicular in Aleksotas, which was recently repaired and is now functioning again, links the old part of the city with the slopes of Aleksotas which offer a beautiful view of the city. The funicular of Žaliakalnis goes up from downtown to the monumental Christ’s Resurrection Church, the roof of which also provides a spectacular panorama of the city.
MONUMENT TO V Y TA U TA S T H E G R E AT {at the turn of Laisvės al. and L. Sapiegos g.}
This monument was unveiled in 1932 in commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the Grand Duke Vytautas of Lithuania. Created by sculptor Vincas Grybas, it first stood in Panemunė, but was destroyed in the Soviet years. After the restoration of independence, it was rebuilt at the junction of Freedom Avenue (Laisvės Alėja) and Sapiegos Street.
PA Ž A I S L I S M O N A S T E R Y {T. Masiulio g. 31}
One of the most beautiful architectural ensembles of the Baroque style in Lithuania, the Pažaislis Monastery was built in the 17th century as a Camaldoli Abbey under the supervision of Italian masters from Florence. Pažaislis music festivals are held here every summer. More information: www.pazaislis.lt.
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K A U N A S D A N C E T H E AT R E “A U R A” {M. Daukšos g. 30A}
K A U N A S S TAT E M U S I C A L T H E AT R E {Laisvės al. 92}
K A U N A S L I T T L E T H E AT R E {M. Daukšos g. 34}
Perhaps the most spot-on description of this theatre was offered by conductor Birutė Letukaitė, who addressed all lovers of dance: “Let’s knock down banality and cheap popularity, ephemeral fluff and overplayed music, constrained notions and timeworn ideas, and even our own laziness! We can, we want, we are different!”. “Aura” is the oldest and the most experienced modern dance collective in Lithuania, recognized and awarded in various international contests of modern dance. Since 1989, the first festival of modern dance in Kaunas is organized annually by initiative of Birutė Letukaitė. More information: www.aura.lt.
Established in 1940, this theatre is faithful to its longtime tradition of showing plays encompassing all genres of the musical theatre stage – operas, operettas, musicals, ballets, dance plays, plays for children. New creations by renowned Lithuanian theatre conductors, directors and painters are born here. The theatre is also intensely collaborating with foreign artists. Some of the best Lithuanian opera soloists sing during the shows in the repertoire of the theatre. Over the time of one season, Kaunas State Musical Theatre shows almost 200 plays and the public are invited to 2–3 premieres. More information: www.muzikinisteatras.lt.
Located in a mysterious place in the Old Town, emitting aroma of cosiness and charming peculiarities, Kaunas Little Theatre was established in 1992 as an extravagant response to academic stability. The repertoire is dominated by productions of works created by modern authors in various genres – anything from tragicomic dramas to intriguing, unusual plays. More information: www. mazasisteatras.lt.
N AT I O N A L K A U N A S D R A M A T H E AT R E {Laisvės al. 71}
The long history of this teatre began in 1920. It was the first professional state theatre in Lithuania. Whether in the Soviet era or during the years of independence, the theatre has always welcomed the greatest creators of Lithuanian theatre – Andrius Oleka-Žilinskas, Mstislavas Dobužinskis, Michailas Čechovas, Henrikas Vancevičius, Jonas Jurašas, Jonas Vaitkus, Gytis Padegimas, Gintaras Varnas, Vidmantas Bartulis and others. Almost every year since 1996, annual awards to the best Lithuanian theatre artists have been given to those working with the Kaunas State Drama Theatre. More information: www.dramosteatras.lt. 068
K A U N A S C H A M B E R T H E AT R E {Kęstučio g. 74A}
It is a municipal stock drama theatre, which has acquired the status of a professional theatre in 1986. Every year, Kaunas Chamber Theatre prepares 3 premieres (one of them is always a play for children). The shows are different in genres and form. They include theatre plays-games “Blaise“ and “Hot Chocolate”, Tabori’s post-modern “Peepshow”, Ionesco’s absurdist dramas, Pushkin’s masterpiece “The Queen of Spades”, psychological play “Antigone in New York”, phantasmagoric “Virgin Marriage”. More information: www.kamerinisteatras.lt.
MYKOLAS ŽILINSKAS ART GALLERY {Nepriklausomybės a. 12}
Named in memory of famous collector Mykolas Žilinskas (1904–1992), who has vastly contributed to the enrichment of Lithuanian art collections. Exhibited here are the most valuable foreign art collections of the M. K. Čiurlionis’ museum: fine arts of Ancient Egypt, applied arts in Europe from 17th to 20th century, Italian paintings in 17th and 18th century, painting in Western Europe during the second half of 19th century and the entire 20th century, painting and sculpture of Baltic countries in the first half of 20th century. Three halls of the gallery are intended for changing exhibitions by Lithuanian and foreign artists. Events of the annual Kaunas Biennial Textile are also held here.
K AUNAS PIC TURE GALLERY {K. Donelaičio g. 16}
Modern paintings, graphics and sculptures made by Lithuanians and emigrants since 1945 are exhibited in this gallery. Also, one can see the set of Eastern Art from the collection of Algimantas Miškinis, the office of the avant-garde movement “Fluxus” founder Jurgis Mačiūnas and changing exhibitions of modern arts.
ESTONIA B A LT I C SEA
M . K . Č I U R L I O N I S N AT I O N A L ART MUSEUM {Putvinskio g. 55}
The museum collects, preserves, explores and promotes the creative heritage of the most famous Lithuanian artist and composer Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis (1875– 1911). Expositions of Lithuanian fine arts (16th–19th century) and Lithuanian folk art are available here as well. K A U N A S S TAT E P H I L H A R M O N I C {L.Sapiegos g. 5}
L AT V I A LITHUANIA
Kaunas State Philharmonic holds various art events: symphonic and chamber concerts, jazz performances, family events, educational programmes for pupils, festivals and themed P O L A N D concert series, etc. In a year, Kaunas State Philharmonic organizes about 160 to 200 concerts. In the summer, from June to August, it hosts the Pažaislis Music Festival. Kaunas also has a very rich coffee drinking culture and many places where one can enjoy the stimulating beverage.
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S A LT Sholarships Non-Degree Studies Application and Admission for Degree Programmes International Office Contacts 070
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SCHOLARSHIPS
V
ytautas Magnus University offers scholarships to students who are currently enrolled or planning to enrol in Master’s degree programmes taught in English at Vytautas Magnus University. G O L D A N D S I LV E R A W A R D S
Vytautas Magnus University offers Gold and Silver Awards to students who are currently enrolled or planning to enrol in Master’s degree programmes taught in English at Vytautas Magnus University. The scholarship programme is intended for the most promising candidates who have demonstrated high academic achievements. STIPENDIUM HONORIS
Stipendium Honoris is a financial award for students who have contributed to scientific and academic achievements of VMU or have promoted the institution around the world.
SCHOLARSHIP FOR LITHUANIAN DIASPOR A
Vytautas Magnus University offers a scholarship to children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren of exiles and foreigners of Lithuanian descent who lived abroad for no less than three years, started studying in the eighth or lower grade after arriving to the Republic of Lithuania, and have been admitted to Vytautas Magnus University’s first-cycle or integrated studies since 2013. OTHER VMU SCHOLARSHIPS
Vytautas Magnus University, after coordination with VMU Student Council, awards all the scholarships and financial support to students from the VMU Scholarship Fund, which consists of foundation of scholarships for academic achievements (finances from the budget of the Republic of Lithuania) and other foundations dedicated to student support. All scholarships and all kinds of financial support are awarded and allocated to full-time VMU students. More information on VMU scholarships – www.vdu.lt
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S TAT E S C H O L A R S H I P S
Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Lithuania takes pleasure in offering Lithuanian state scholarships for full-time Master degree studies in Lithuanian higher education institutions to nationals of Armenia, Georgia, Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan. Students from various countries are also provided by scholarships for short -term Lithuanian (Baltic) studies and Lithuanian language and culture summer school. More information is avaivalbe on the website of Education Exchanges Support Foundation www.smpf.lt
NON-DEGREE STUDIES
V
ytautas Magnus University welcomes Free Movers (non-degree students) to apply for separate courses at Bachelor or Master›s level offered in English. Each semester VMU offers over 500 courses in English. Free Mover students are individual, international students who, upon payment, are temporarily (for one or two semesters) registered at Vytautas Magnus University for courses in the Bachelor or Master level offered in English. They organize their studies at VMU independently. After their term at the university, Free Mover students receive a transcript of records, but not a degree or a diploma. This is the perfect way to collect some international credits!
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS 1.
Application form
Learning Agreement (filled in and signed) 2.
A certificate from your home university, proving that you are enrolled as a regular (i.e. feepaying) student there 3.
Transcript of records from home institution 4. 5.
Any proof of English proficiency
Letter of motivation (300–500 words) 6.
Copy of your passport or other document of identification (ID, etc.) 7.
Copy of document showing paid application fee of 50 EUR (where the name of the applicant and the date of payment are indicated) 8.
1 recent passport size photo (3 x 4 cm) 9.
All application documents must arrive firstly by e-mail (scanned copies) at the International Office at Vytautas Magnus University and then sent to the International Office by post or brought by students within their arrival. BY E-MAIL
studies@trt.vdu.lt B Y FA X
+370 37 327 989 BY POST
International Office Vytautas Magnus University K. Donelaičio g. 58 LT-44248 Kaunas Lithuania A P P L I C AT I O N D E A D L I N E S June 30th – Application deadline for
Autumn semester; November 30th – Application deadline for Spring semester. More information – www.vdu.lt
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DEGREE STUDIES A P P L I C AT I O N A N D A D M I S S I O N
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C H E C K I F YO U A R E E L I G I B L E T O A P P LY
BAC H E LO R D E G R E E P R O G R AM M E S
High School diploma / transcript of records English: TOEFL 65 iBT/500 PBT; IELTS: 5.5, level B2
MASTER DEGREE PROGRAMMES
Bachelor degree diploma / transcript of records English: TOEFL: 80 iBT/550 PBT; IELTS: 6.0, level B2
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CHECK THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS F O R A P P L I C AT I O N
1 . Diploma (High School / Bachelor / Master degree diploma) with its supplement in the original language. 2 . Diploma with its supplement translated into English and: either approved by Appostille (for countries acceding to the 1961 Hague Convention) or legalized by the Centre of Quality Assessment in Higher Education in Lithuania (www.skvc.lt) – for other countries; 3 . Diploma supplements must be with official grading system explanation from the institution 4 . Motivation letter (400–600 words) 5 . Proof of English proficiency 6 . Passport copy 7 . 1 recent passport size photo (3 x 4 cm) 8 . 50 EUR application fee
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Important! Please indicate your name and surname in payment details.
P AY 5 0 E U R A P P L I C AT I O N F E E I N O R D E R F O R YO U R O N L I N E A P P L I C AT I O N T O B E R E G I S T E R E D
B A N K A C C O U N T D E TA I L S
Account holder: Vytautas Magnus University Address: K. Donelaičio g. 58, LT-44248 Kaunas, Lithuania Company code: 111950396 Bank: AB SEB bankas Bank Address: Gedimino pr. 12, LT-01103 Vilnius, Lithuania Bank Account: LT04 7044 0600 0284 8625 Bank Code: 70440 SWIFT / BIC: CBVILT2X
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S U B M I T Y O U R O N L I N E A P P L I C AT I O N
Submit your online application at vytautasmagnus.dreamapply.com between 15 January and 1 June. Please note that incomplete or late applications will not be processed
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G E T C O N F I R M AT I O N A B O U T
YO U R A D M I S S I O N
C H E C K I F YO U N E E D A V I S A TO ENTER LITHUANIA
NON-EU/EEA
Check if your passport is valid for the whole study period plus 3 months Check if a visa is required to enter the Schengen area All students must obtain a D type visa from the nearest Lithuanian embassy in their home country or (if there is no such) in the neighbouring country Check if you are able to proof your financial means (amount 1500–5400 EUR a year) EU/EEA
Check if your passport is valid for the whole study period plus 3 months EU/EEA citizens are required the right to reside in Lithuania if they stay for more than 90 days. They can obtain a Temporary Residence Permit for studies in Lithuania at the Migration Office after having arrived
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PAY T H E T U I T I O N F E E F O R O N E A C A D E M I C Y E A R U N T I L 3 0 J U LY
A F T E R YO U G E T S T U DY CO N T R AC T SIGN AND SEND IT BY POST UNTIL 15 AUGUST
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I N T E R N AT I O N A L O F F I C E
T
he VMU International Office initiates, coordinates and administers international activities and educational exchange programmes at the university. It is concerned with the management of exchange and cooperation agreements, outgoing and incoming mobility, funding and scholarships, participation in international projects. The International Office cooperates with faculties and departments of the University to provide outgoing and incoming students, academics and the administration staff with opportunities to participate in the international mobility schemes.
A D M I S S I O N & A P P L I C AT I O N : Erasmus studies Campus Europae
studies Bilateral agreements’ studies Academic / staff mobility Internships E-mail: office@trt.vdu.lt BA
and MA degree studies (free mover) studies VMU scholarships for international students
C O N TA C T S VISITING ADDRESS:
S. Daukanto g. 27, rooms 301–309, Kaunas www.vdu.lt/en Facebook: VMU on the Move Phone +370 37 327981, +370 37 327986, +370 37 327987 Phone / Fax +370 37 327989
Non-degree
E-mail: studies@trt.vdu.lt
THIS DIVISION OF THE UNIVERSIT Y HELPS INCOMING STUDENTS WITH: Pre-arrival
matters procedures and admission VMU scholarships for international students Practical information on accommodation Visa application procedures Assistance after arrival Activities and support during the study period Application
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C O N TA C T S
V Y TA U TA S M A G N U S U N I V E R S I T Y REC TOR’S OFFICE
K. Donelaičio g. 58, LT-44248 Kaunas Phone: +370 37 222 739 Fax: +370 37 203 858 info@adm.vdu.lt | www.vdu.lt I N T E R N AT I O N A L O F F I C E
Informs university students and lecturers about studies, internships and scholarships abroad; provides assistance to the incoming foreign students and lecturers. S. Daukanto g. 27 (301–309), LT-44249 Kaunas Phone: +370 327 986 office@trt.vdu.lt | http://www.vdu.lt/en OFFICE OF SCIENCE
Organizes and administers admissions to doctoral studies and activities of research and arts at the university, coordinates the work of the research clusters, supports university’s relations with international and local science and research institutions, foundations and partners, etc. More details on doctoral studies are provided by the administrations of Dean’s Offices at each of the faculties. Laisvės al. 53-207, LT-44309 Kaunas Phone: +370 37 327 946, +370 37 209 815 dir@mt.vdu.lt
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P U B L I C C O M M U N I C AT I O N S O F F I C E
PROJECT MANAGEMENT OFFICE
Establishes and fosters relations with the media and the target audiences of the university, maintains regular flow of information about university’s activities, prepares various information publications, organizes events for the VMU community and the wider society.
Carries out administration and coordination of the university’s project activities and creates conditions for developing and managing the processes of these activities.
K. Donelaičio g. 58, LT-44248 Kaunas Phone: +370 37 327 960; +370 37 327 868 info@vkt.vdu.lt STUDY MARKE TING OFFICE
Organizes and coordinates students’ admission to the Bachelor’s degree studies, provides information about studying at the university, organizes introductory meetings at schools and the university. K. Donelaičio g. 52-114, LT-44248 Kaunas Phone: +370 37 323 206 Fax: +370 37 323 621 darbuotojai@smt.vdu.lt www.vdu.lt/stojantiesiems Skype: VDU.moksleiviams Facebook: VDU moksleiviams
K. Donelaičio g. 58-3B, LT-44244 Kaunas Phone: +370 37 323 296 Fax: +370 37203 858 dir@pvt.vdu.lt | http://pvt.vdu.lt LIBRARY
K. Donelaičio g. 52, LT-44244 Kaunas Phone/Fax: +370 37 327 860 info@bibl.vdu.lt | http://biblioteka.vdu.lt O F F I C E O F A C A D E M I C A F FA I R S
Organizes and administers activities of the undergraduate, graduate and integrated university studies Laisvės al. 53-207, LT-44248 Kaunas Phone/Fax: +370 37 323 599 dir@art.vdu.lt | darbuotojai@art.vdu.lt
O F F I C E O F S T U D E N T A F FA I R S
YO U T H C A R E E R C E N T R E
Manages social problems and financial support of the students, administers student accommodation in dormitories, offers integration programs for students with disabilities, administers documents which prove the status of the student, deals with student payments and maintains university’s organisations.
Consults and helps the students plan their careers.
S. Daukanto g. 27 (210–212), LT-44249 Kaunas Phone: +370 37 327 977, +370 37 751 175 Fax: +370 37 327 977 info@osa.vdu.lt S T U D E N T S R E P R E S E N TAT I V E COUNCIL
S. Daukanto g. 27 (201–202), LT-44249 Kaunas Phone: +370 37 327 971 sa@fc.vdu.lt | www.vdusa.lt CENTRE OF CONTINUING STUDIES
Initiates, plans, organizes and involves university divisions in the work on new services of adult education. S. Daukanto g. 27 (403–404), LT-44249 Kaunas Phone: +370 37 327 984 Fax: +370 37 327 985 tsc@tsc.vdu.lt | www.vdu.lt/tsc
S. Daukanto g. 27-310, LT-44249 Kaunas Phone: +370 37 228 151 http://jkc.isprendimai.lt VMU ARTS CENTRE
The Arts centre unifies all the artistic groups and individual creative initiatives of our university. All the members and initiators have a perfect opportunity to develop their own creative and organizational skills. Laisvės al. 53, LT-44248 Kaunas Phone: +370 37 327 819 info@menucentras.lt www.menucentras.lt
Photo: Jonas Petronis, VMU archive Publisher “Versus aureus” © Vytautas Magnus University, 2014