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Faculty of Economics and Social SciencesPolitical Science – Master

Students of the degree programme in Political Science primarily study the organisation and functioning of political institutions, the agencies and processes operating between state and society, the complexion of governance as a function of state policy, and international relations.

Facts & Formalities

DegreeMaster of Arts
Type of programmeConsecutive
Start of programmeWinter and summer semester
Standard period of study4 semesters
Language(s) of instructionGerman and English
Fees and contributions151.05 € / Semester
Application procedureConsecutive master’s programmes with access restriction
Application deadlinesInformation about deadlines can be obtained after you have put together a degree program.
May be studied as a minor subjectYes

Course Content

The Master’s degree programme in Political Science is intended for graduates of a Bachelor’s degree programme in Political Science who wish to pursue more advanced studies within a strongly research-oriented environment. The focus of the Master’s degree programme is on the theory-driven empirical analysis of democracies and governmental activity within a variety of political systems, as well as the comparative analysis of differing political systems, foreign policy, institutions, conflicts, and international regulatory policy.

The Master’s degree programme reflects the research focus and core competencies of the Institute for Political Science, in particular, the comparative analysis of political systems in general, and, specifically, of democracy and research on governmental activity, as well as conflict research and analysis of institutes. It provides students, through their choice of the modules offered, with the opportunity to establish specialisations, allowing them to develop their own individual academic profiles. Students will also actively participate in ongoing research activities, gaining insight into current political science research debates.

It is mandatory to choose a minor in combination with this Master programme. For further information please refer to the Examination Rules and Regulations.

Course Structure

The degree programme is divided into:

  • Compulsory elective modules that provide an in-depth study of political science (four of the six modules must be chosen)
  • A research seminar, followed by a one-semester research internship that is held during the course of study and is intended to broaden theoretical and methodical knowledge as well as to involve students in ongoing research projects  
  • final oral examination
  • Master’s colloquium, and
  • Master's thesis