The duration of studies leading to the award of the Programme’s Master’s Degree Diploma (MDD) is set at four (4) academic semesters, each lasting thirteen (13) weeks of instruction, which includes the time for the preparation and submission for examination of the Master’s Thesis (MT). The permitted duration for the completion of requirements to obtain the master’s degree diploma is a minimum of four (4) and a maximum of six (6) academic semesters. The duration of the Postgraduate Programme’s courses per semester is at least thirteen (13) weeks, corresponding to 30 ECTS. Compulsory courses comprise no less than 39 hours of instruction. The time allocated for writing the Master’s Thesis (MT) cannot be less than six (6) months or more than eighteen (18) months.

An extension is possible, following a justified request by the student and approval from the Programme Committee of the IIPSP. The extension may not exceed the number of semesters of the programme’s normal duration. Thus, the maximum permitted time for the completion of studies is set at six (6) academic semesters.

Students who have not exceeded the maximum duration of study may, following a justified request to the Programme Committee of the IIPSP, suspend their studies for a period not exceeding two (2) consecutive semesters. Suspension of studies is granted for serious reasons (e.g., military service, illness, maternity/paternity leave, absence abroad).

The request must be justified and accompanied by all relevant supporting documents from competent public authorities or organisations, which substantiate the reasons for the suspension. Student status is suspended during the period of study suspension, and participation in any educational process is not permitted. The semesters of suspended student status do not count towards the maximum prescribed duration of normal studies.

At least two weeks before the end of the suspension period, the student is required to re-enrol in the programme to continue their studies with the rights and obligations of an active student. Students may request to interrupt their suspension and return to the Programme only if they have requested a suspension for two consecutive academic semesters. The request to interrupt the suspension must be submitted no later than two weeks before the start of the second semester of the suspension period.

The duration of a suspension or extension of studies is discussed and approved on a case-by-case basis by the Programme Committee of the IIPSP.