This double MA programme leads to two master’s degrees: a Sociology MA from the University of Bamberg plus a partner MA from either the University of Trento (Sociology and Social Research), Pompeu Fabra University in Barcelona (Sociology and Demography), or Tilburg University (Sociology). The overall programme is taught in English and is delivered over two years, combining core sociological theory and research-methods training with more specialised thematic options at the partner institution. It is designed to develop strong empirical research skills (quantitative and qualitative), advanced data-analysis competence, and interdisciplinary perspectives relevant to academic and applied social-research careers.
The Trento pathway emphasises social research and allows students to spend their first year either in Trento or in Bamberg, with the second year at the partner institution. In the first year students choose courses across Sociological Theory, Research Design, Data Collection, and Methods of Data Analysis (both quantitative and qualitative). The second year offers two focus tracks — “Education, Labour, Inequality” (with electives in social inequality, social-structure analysis, methods and statistics, and topic-specific courses such as education or labour markets) or “Communication and Internet” (with electives in cultural theory, methods and statistics, and subjects like technology and communication).
The Barcelona pathway combines sociology with demography and places a strong emphasis on advanced data-analysis training (including use of STATA). Over two years students take mandatory core courses such as Sociological Theory, Research Design, and Empirical Research Methods in the first year, followed by second-year courses focused on socio-demographic analysis (Demographic Changes and Social Dynamics; Social Policy and the Welfare State; Analysis of Social Inequalities and Family; Gender and Society) plus electives in areas like Migration and Society or Health and Inequality.
The Tilburg pathway is organised as a fully integrated two-year programme with a mutually recognised course list between the two universities. In the first semester students receive guidance to design an individual study plan. Bamberg coursework typically covers Sociological Theory, Research Design, Advanced Methods of Data Acquisition, several electives in Advanced Methods of Data Analysis, and courses on Education and Work in the Life Course. Tilburg offerings include courses such as Social Capital, Social Policy and Social Risks, Social Structure of Western Societies, Populism in Comparative Perspective, and Theory of Research. Across all variants, students gain exposure to different research traditions and approaches by studying at recognised international universities.
Program structure and requirements (concise)
Overview
The double MA in Sociology is governed by detailed study plans that specify the curriculum for each partner-track. The official study plans are published on the University of Bamberg website and are split by partner institution: Bamberg/Trento, Bamberg/Barcelona, and Bamberg/Tilburg. Each document is the authoritative source for module lists, credit allocation and the sequence of study for that particular double-degree pathway.
What the study plans cover (and what to check)
Each partner-specific study plan lays out the full curriculum structure and the programme’s intended learning outcomes. They typically indicate which semesters you spend at each institution, the modules designated as compulsory or elective for that track, assessment formats, and the requirements related to the master’s thesis or capstone. International applicants should review the correct study plan for their chosen partner track to understand the exact modules, specialization options, research-methods training, credit distribution and language(s) of instruction.
Practical advice for applicants
Before applying or accepting an offer, consult the appropriate study plan PDF on Bamberg’s website so you can confirm which modules and learning outcomes apply to your cohort and partner university. If anything in the document is unclear, contact the programme coordinator listed on the university pages for clarifications about module content, mobility arrangements and thesis requirements.
Key points / quick checklist
Admission requirements
This double MA degree follows the standard application routes for each partner university: applicants must apply to the regular MA programmes at the partner institutions (MA Soziologie at the University of Bamberg; Laurea Magistrale in Sociology and Social Research at the University of Trento; MSc Sociology at Tilburg University; and Research Master in Sociology and Demography at Pompeu Fabra University). In addition to meeting each university’s regular entry rules, there are extra eligibility criteria specific to the double degree that applicants must satisfy.
You will therefore need to meet the admission conditions for each partner programme listed below. Equivalency to the German grading scale will be assessed by the respective admissions offices; make sure your transcripts clearly show ECTS credits and grades. A working command of English at level B2 (CEFR) is required.
Required documents (to be submitted with your application)
Specific academic requirements (additional to the partner programmes’ standard rules)
If you have questions about how your prior studies convert to ECTS or the German grading scale, contact the admissions office of the specific partner university to which you are applying. They will assess equivalence and advise on any additional documentation needed.
Winter Semester (International)
1 July 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
1 July 2026
Graduates leave the programme with advanced theoretical and empirical skills attractive to employers in research institutes, public administration, policy analysis units, international organisations, NGOs, and private‐sector research or consulting firms. The high level of methodological training (quantitative and qualitative) and experience with socio‑demographic analysis and statistical software prepares alumni for roles as data analysts, research associates, policy advisors, and demographers.
The double degree also equips students for further academic work: many graduates pursue PhD programmes or careers in academic research, benefitting from the interdisciplinary and comparative perspectives gained through study at two European institutions.