We discussed the visions and priorities of CEVRO University with its rector, Dr. Tomáš Jarmara, an experienced academic and political scientist. We inquired about the degree programmes that the university offers to managers in both the public administration and business sectors.
Earlier this year you achieved a significant milestone by obtaining the esteemed status of a university. What opportunities does this status create for you in terms of science, research, and innovation?
Over the past three years, as we advanced towards offering doctoral studies and achieving university status, we have made substantial efforts and investments in attracting quality academics with potential in science and research across various fields. Concurrently, we have systematically established institutional support for this area through a variety of incentive mechanisms, an internal grant system, and support for project activities. These efforts have led to significantly improved publications and the acquisition of numerous grants in applied research. We are also currently involved in research projects with the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic (TAČR), which is particularly gratifying.
The prestige of a university has a multiplying impact by attracting attention from scholars and industry professionals. This enhances opportunities for collaboration with private, public, and state universities in areas such as study, science, and research. Additionally, it fosters partnerships with private and public companies in applied research, educational programmes, student projects, and other related activities.
Could you give an example?
One example is the upcoming partnership with the University of Defence. Our joint efforts will focus on educational and research activities in crucial areas such as defence, security, and crisis management. Both universities aim to exchange professional expertise and develop projects that will help strengthen the defence and security of the Czech Republic.
Cooperation with business is undoubtedly essential for a private university. Can a doctoral degree be an advantage when applying for a managerial position?
Definitely, because a doctoral degree not only equips individuals for roles in academia but also holds significant value for careers in various practical fields. Holding a PhD demonstrates a capability for scientific research or its application, which is advantageous during the hiring process for managerial roles, as seen in the leadership of various companies. Therefore, we support internal PhD students, often recent university graduates interested in pursuing academia, and external PhD students, typically more experienced professionals who wish to leverage their expertise in doctoral studies.
Your university takes pride in its strong ties to practical applications. What does this entail?
The university must possess a strong theoretical foundation, supported by assistant professors, associate professors, and professors dedicated to science and research. Simultaneously, we engage top industry professionals. We have a number of distinguished individuals, such as diplomats and experts in international relations like Cyril Svoboda and Michael Žantovský. We also include the former Chief of the General Staff of the Czech Armed Forces, Jiří Šedivý, along with other colleagues from the security forces of the army and the police, the former head of the Chamber of Commerce, Vladimír Dlouhý, and experts holding notable positions in the business sector. These people usually supervise postgraduate degree programmes, an important part of the CEVRO University portfolio. While it is challenging to list all the courses, I would highlight the popular ones, such as Information Risk Management and Crisis Management following a Cyber Attack, as well as the MPA programmes Security and Crisis Management, Modern Public Service, and the LL.M. programme Information Protection.
Thank you for the interview.