The Master in Anti-Corruption Studies (MACS) is a flagship postgraduate degree programme offered by the International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) — a global centre of excellence focused on anti-corruption education, research, and professional development based in Laxenburg, Austria.
About IACA
The International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA) is an international organization and postgraduate educational institution with a mission to advance knowledge, research, and practice in anti-corruption and compliance. It brings together scholars, practitioners, and policymakers from around the world to foster integrity, transparency, and accountability in public and private sectors.
Programme Overview
Purpose
The MACS programme is designed to equip professionals with advanced interdisciplinary knowledge and practical tools to understand, prevent, and counter corruption at national, regional, and international levels.
Duration & Credits
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Length: 2 years
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Credits: 120 ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System)
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Designed to enable enrolment into PhD programmes upon completion.
Mode of Study
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Online and Hybrid formats: Flexible learning for working professionals.
Language
Instruction: English.
Programme Structure
The MACS programme offers a comprehensive multidisciplinary curriculum covering the academic foundations and practical approaches to anti-corruption and compliance work. It includes:
Seven Core Modules
Each module carries approximately 12–15 ECTS credits and includes:
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Pre-Study Phase — Asynchronous preparation
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Interactive Phase — Live online or in-person teaching
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Post-Study Research — Research assignments and projects
Master’s Thesis
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The programme culminates in a 25,000-word Master’s Thesis.
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Students work closely with an assigned faculty supervisor.
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Thesis defence typically occurs in mid-November of the final academic year.
Benefits of the MACS Programme
The course aims to deepen participants’ understanding of corruption and strengthen real-world capacity to address it through:
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Interdisciplinary learning from economics, law, political science, criminology, human rights, and compliance
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Flexible study formats for professional schedules
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Global peer network with professionals from diverse sectors
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Development of practical anti-corruption skills and research competencies
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Internationally recognized degree with potential pathways to doctoral research
Admissions & Requirements
To qualify for admission, applicants must typically meet the following:
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A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification
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Relevant work experience or academic background in anti-corruption, law, public policy, governance, or related fields
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English language proficiency
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Submission of required documents and a non-refundable application fee
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Standard fee: €100
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Discounted fee: €50 for nationals of certain IACA Parties
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Admissions decisions are usually communicated within 3–4 weeks after application submission.
Fees & Financial Information
Tuition Fees
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Online format: approx. €17,900
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Hybrid format: approx. €22,400
Fees include teaching, learning materials, supervision and thesis evaluation. Costs such as travel, accommodation and insurance are not included.
Discounts
Eligible applicants may receive preferential tuition discounts under IACA’s schemes, including:
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10%–20% discounts based on nationality
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Special reductions for IACA alumni
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Application fee reductions in selected cases
Impact & Testimonials
The MACS programme has attracted mid-career professionals and experts from around the globe. Past participants testify to the programme’s role in enhancing their analytical frameworks, research abilities, and professional practice in anti-corruption environments.
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Learn More & Apply
For detailed application instructions, Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and additional programme materials, prospective students can visit this link
Application Deadline: 31st July 2026
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