This two-year (four-semester) Master’s programme is economics-centred and built for students who want to work in international cooperation and development across the public, non-profit and private sectors, or at the interface of research and practice — including those aiming for an academic career in related fields. The language of instruction is English. Each intake is small and international: about 20–25 students join annually, with roughly 60–80% coming from outside Germany, creating a diverse learning environment.
The curriculum balances rigorous analytical training with qualitative and quantitative methods, placing particular emphasis on applied empirical work using increasingly available microdata. You will be trained in impact evaluation methods — both experimental approaches (e.g., randomized field experiments) and quasi-experimental techniques — and become familiar with Stata for data analysis. The programme’s practical, evidence-based orientation prepares graduates to design, evaluate and advise on development policies and programmes.
There are three compulsory core module pairs, each delivered over two consecutive semesters: Research Methods I + II (quantitative methods and Stata), Development Economics I + II (the economics of developing countries with a strong empirical focus), and International Business Ethics I + II (ethical theory and contemporary corporate challenges from international and intercultural perspectives). In addition, students choose at least two international economics modules (examples: Issues in International Political Economy; International Trade and Labour; International Finance; Foundations of International Management; Managing Intercultural Relations) and at least two regional modules (examples: Political Economy of the Middle East; Social Health Protection in South and East Asia; Business and Society in Latin America). A range of elective modules is available, and ungraded complementary electives such as language courses can be taken. Students may also receive up to 10 ECTS for a programme-related internship. For full details, see the programme website: https://www.madeis.study.fau.eu/.
Key facts and requirements (concise)
This two-year MA combines core theory in development economics with applied research training, regional specialisation and international economics. The programme is built around three core module pairs (30 ECTS) that teach advanced development economics and research methods, complemented by courses that develop quantitative and empirical skills (including a statistics refresher and hands‑on training in Stata). Students also study international economics and regional modules to situate development questions in a global and geographic context, while elective and complementary elective modules let you shape the degree toward your interests. The final semester is dedicated to a 30‑ECTS Master’s thesis that demonstrates your ability to design and execute independent research.
Key learning outcomes include mastery of development economics theory and policy, strong empirical research skills (quantitative methods and Stata proficiency), the ability to analyse international economic issues and region‑specific development challenges, and an ethical perspective on international business practices. The curriculum is organised so you typically take about 30 ECTS per semester, leaving room in semester three to customise your programme through international, regional and elective options before focusing on the thesis in semester four. More details are available on the programme website: https://www.madeis.study.fau.eu/.
Semester guidance:
Students are expected to average about 30 ECTS per semester.
This master’s programme expects applicants to hold a relevant undergraduate degree and a solid foundation in core economics subjects. Successful candidates typically have a Bachelor's, Diplom or equivalent in economics or a closely related field, and have completed a substantial portion of their prior studies in economics/management (measured in ECTS). The programme also requires good academic standing in the undergraduate degree and a high level of English proficiency.
In addition to the academic and language requirements, applicants must submit a short application letter in English explaining their motivation and suitability. If you have practical experience in development economics, provide evidence of that experience and a one-page English description of your tasks and responsibilities. International applicants whose grades or language certificates use different scales should consult the programme’s admissions office or website for guidance on acceptable conversions and accepted English tests.
Admission requirements (summary)
Note: If your institution uses a different grading scale or you hold non-standard language certificates, check the programme’s admissions information or contact the admissions office for advice on acceptable conversions and required documentation.
Winter Semester (International)
31 May 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
31 May 2026
Graduates are prepared for roles in public institutions, international and bilateral development agencies, non-governmental organisations, foundations, private-sector firms operating in developing countries, consultancy firms and research institutes. The programme’s emphasis on empirical methods and impact evaluation equips graduates for policy analysis, programme evaluation and positions that require quantitative evidence-based decision making.
The combination of theoretical training, practical Stata skills, ethics and regional expertise also provides a strong foundation for further academic study (e.g. PhD) or careers that bridge research and practice, such as think tanks, international organisations and advisory roles in donor agencies.