This English-language Master's programme in Political Science examines how globalisation and major international developments shape peace, security, stability and development—particularly across Africa. It traces how historical and recent global processes (for example, colonisation and de-colonisation, the end of the Cold War, the effects of 9/11, the 2008 financial crisis, the Arab Spring, and the climate crisis) have created specific risks, vulnerabilities and conflict dynamics on the African continent. The programme situates peace and security issues within broader spatial and transnational contexts, showing how global forces interact with local and regional security challenges.
The course is designed as an interdisciplinary, transnational training programme that goes beyond conventional peace and security studies by integrating the perspectives and methods of global studies. It brings together the expertise of two partner research institutes—one specialising in globalisation research (GESI) and the other focused on peace and security in Africa (IPSS)—to offer a curriculum that reflects contemporary global configurations of conflict. The programme also highlights the policy relevance of the topic, noting institutional developments such as the African Union’s Peace and Security Council and growing demand in policy and research institutions for regionally informed security expertise.
This programme is particularly relevant for students seeking rigorous, research-informed training that links global studies with region-specific security analysis and for those aiming to engage with policy and research institutions working on African peace and security.
This two‑year Master’s is structured into four consecutive semesters (two winter and two summer), organized as ECTS‑based modules in line with the Bologna Process. The programme totals 120 ECTS (30 ECTS per semester), which corresponds to an expected study workload of about 900 hours each semester (1,800 hours per academic year). Teaching blends traditional classroom formats—lectures, seminars, tutorials and group work—with practical components, most notably research internships that give applied experience in the field.
Teaching is delivered in a mixed on‑site and online format. Visiting lecturers from Leipzig University run block courses on location in Addis Ababa, while other course elements are available virtually. The first, third and fourth semesters take place at Addis Ababa University with joint instruction by faculty from both partner universities. The second semester is completed at Leipzig University in Germany, directly linking study in Ethiopia with academic training in Germany.
Key module themes and learning outcomes
Program facts (concise)
Admission is based on a holistic assessment of your academic background, motivation and suitability for the Master’s. The admissions team looks for strong study results and considers the standing and quality of your previous higher-education institution. They also evaluate your motivation and demonstrated potential to succeed in advanced academic work.
A good match between your prior degree and the Master’s programme is important — applicants should be able to show how their earlier studies prepare them for the programme’s content. Professional experience and relevant qualifications from the workplace can strengthen an application and are taken into account alongside academic records. Finally, applicants must have the language skills needed to participate fully in classes and complete programme requirements.
Winter Semester (International)
The application deadline for admission to the winter semester is the end of February each year.The exact dates can be found on our website:https://www.sozphil.uni-leipzig.de/en/global-and-european-studies-institute/study-at-gesi/ma-global-studies-with-special-emphasis-on-peace-and-security-in-africa/application-fees-and-living-costs.
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