Future Studies up to 2022/23

Until 2023, the educational program "Future Studies" consisted of four modules: Future of State and Society and Skills for the Future in the fall semester, and Views towards Europe and Classroom 4.0 in the spring semester, with an additional Intensive EU module. In addition to lectures and workshops in these modules, the program included the Alumni2Students mentoring program, an internship program, and writing a final paper in one of three forms: case study, academic essay, or policy proposal.

The Future of State and Society module aims to prepare students for changes and acquaint them with current issues influenced by growing social, economic, and political factors related to the state's international position and individual development in their context. Interactive lectures cover topics such as sustainable development, climate change, state-society relations, social activism, workforce dynamics, and critical thinking as a foundation for observing future trends and the changes they bring.

The Skills for the Future module aims to equip students with skills enhancing their employability and competitiveness in the job market, further developed during internships or initial employment. Besides essential 21st-century skills, this module offers leadership skills for driving change in their environments.

The Classroom 4.0 module introduces students to the broader social implications of the new technological revolution. Lectures highlight the key challenges, dangers, and benefits of the 4.0 revolution for individuals and global society. Students engage with distinguished speakers on topics ranging from architecture, new technologies, medicine, information society, to new media.

The Views towards Europe module with the Intensive EU module prepares students to critically assess future directions of the European Union (EU). Through a multidisciplinary approach to each topic, students familiarize themselves with EU development, engage in debates on various scenarios of the EU's most significant practical-political processes. 

Alumni2Students Mentoring Program

Within the Future Studies program, students participate in the Alumni2Students mentoring program, enabling them to collaborate closely with Belgrade Open School alumni. 

Mentors share their experiences and knowledge, helping students improve their skills. Their extensive careers and experience allow them to guide students and provide solutions to dilemmas and questions, fostering both professional and personal connections. The collaboration lasts for eight months, during which mentors and students have eight sessions to set goals and pace, ensuring flexibility and quality in their partnership.

Internship Program

The internship program was a mandatory component of the Belgrade Open School academic program. It includes activities focused on performing tasks within an institution or organization where the internship takes place. The program aims to prepare students for the workforce, helping them acquire skills essential in the job market.

Institutions or organizations determine whether the internship lasts a few weeks (at least 80 working hours) or up to three months within this period, in agreement with the student.

Final Paper

The final paper aims to familiarize students with a specific field through intensive research and analysis, guiding them towards further professional development in their chosen area and strengthening their critical thinking.

The thesis can take one of three forms: academic essay, public policy proposal, or case study.

During the application process, candidates choose the paper form that best aligns with their interests.

Additional and Optional Activities

In addition to required coursework, Future Studies includes various optional activities that facilitate better communication and networking among students. These activities allow students to enhance their knowledge and skills, with at least one additional or optional activity scheduled each month.

Psychological workshops are a traditional component, aiming to deepen students' theoretical and practical knowledge in psychology and psychotherapy, tailored to student interests and needs. Interactive sessions encourage communication, rational problem-solving, and self-awareness.

The BOS Literary Club promotes reading culture and encourages students to share their perspectives on selected literary works, from classics to contemporary literature, fostering critical analysis and literary discussions.

The Winter Teamwork School, held at the start of the second semester, offers students a retreat to Gučevo Mountain for several days of training and workshops, helping them discover their roles within any group dynamic they may encounter in future professional engagements.

Special lectures provide students with opportunities to expand their knowledge beyond the four core modules of the program. Students2Students lectures allow peers to share insights and expertise.

Each generation contributes its ideas and suggestions, enriching this part of the program with visits to museums, cinemas, theater and other activities that complement students' mandatory coursework and activities.