This two-year double MA programme offers a structured route to earn two Master’s degrees in political science by studying at two partner institutions. Taught in English, the course combines the research strengths and teaching expertise of faculty from both universities, giving students sustained exposure to contemporary debates in governance, international politics and political economy.
The curriculum is designed to deepen your understanding of current research topics across political science while benefiting from contrasting academic traditions. By moving between a German and a British academic setting, you gain a comparative perspective on political institutions, policy processes and global political dynamics that enriches theoretical and empirical learning.
Beyond coursework, the programme provides an international learning environment that supports interdisciplinary thinking, research skills and professional networks across two countries. Graduates leave with enhanced analytical capabilities and a distinctive double degree that can strengthen prospects in research, policy, diplomacy, international organisations and related careers.
Requirements (concise)
This double MA programme awards graduates with two Master’s degrees: one from the University of Bamberg (Political Science) and a partner Master’s from either Aston University (Governance and International Politics) or the University of Essex (one of several Political Science specialisations). The course is designed so students spend the first year at the partner institution in the UK and complete the second year at Bamberg, combining international exposure with advanced training in political science.
The Aston pathway centres on International Relations and global governance, with core modules such as International Relations and Globalisation, Regionalism and Global Governance. A broad range of elective options allows students to tailor their studies toward comparative politics, political economy, political theory, public policy analysis, research methods, regional studies (e.g., Asia–Europe relations), religion and politics, or international security.
The Essex pathway offers core modules that vary by chosen focus and can include Comparative Politics, Public Opinion and Political Behaviour, International Relations, Political Economy and Quantitative Empirical Methods. Electives mirror many of the topics above and add options like Political Explanation and Advanced Research Methods, enabling a stronger methodological or thematic specialisation depending on the student’s interests.
Students begin a single dissertation project while at their UK partner university and complete it as their Master’s thesis at Bamberg, so only one thesis is required for both degrees. Learning outcomes include advanced knowledge of contemporary political issues (comparative politics, international relations, global governance), enhanced empirical and theoretical research skills (including advanced and quantitative methods where applicable), and the ability to design and complete an independent research project with international supervision and perspective.
Applicants must have completed a relevant undergraduate degree and, if applying for the double-degree track, submit an additional written application. The basic academic prerequisite is a Bachelor’s degree in political science or a closely related social science program. This ensures you have the disciplinary foundation needed for graduate study in political science.
Those who want to join the double MA pathway must provide a separate written application in English. This includes documents that help the admissions committee assess your academic background, motivations, and language skills. References should normally come from academic staff who know your work well.
Requirements (bullet points)
Winter Semester (International)
30 June 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
30 June 2026
Graduates are prepared for careers in public policy, government, international organisations, NGOs, think tanks, consultancy and private-sector roles that require expertise in governance, international politics and political economy. The programme’s international orientation and year abroad enhance employability for transnational and comparative roles.
Students benefit from partner-university career services (notably Aston’s established Careers and Employment Centre and Aston Futures) and support in finding internships and graduate vacancies, increasing prospects for successful transition into the labour market or further research training.
Philipps-Universität Marburg — Marburg
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin — Berlin
Hertie School — Berlin
Trier University — Trier