Overview The programme is a research-focused Master’s taught in English that combines contemporary international-relations scholarship with modern social theory to deepen understanding of global politics. It is designed to give students up-to-date theoretical and methodological tools for analysing transnational political dynamics and the social processes that shape world affairs.
Structure and content In the opening semester you build a solid foundation by studying the history and current debates in International Relations, engaging with key topics and paradigms in contemporary social theory, and refreshing quantitative and qualitative social-science methods. The second semester lets you specialise: you choose modules and seminars that deepen theoretical perspectives on international relations, examine global and regional social dynamics behind changes in world politics, or analyse how state and non-state actors attempt to create forms of global governance across policy areas.
Mobility, language and thesis In the third semester you can broaden your profile by spending a semester abroad, doing a research internship, or taking additional courses in other relevant Master’s programmes at the host university (for example MA Political Science, MA European Politics, or MA Social Policy). Students who plan to work in Germany can also take German language courses. The fourth semester is dedicated to writing the Master’s thesis, supported by a thesis seminar where you present and discuss interim results with peers and faculty.
Program requirements (summary)
The MA is organised across four semesters and mixes theoretical grounding with methodological training and hands‑on research practice. In the first semester you build core knowledge through Foundations of Global Politics, Foundations of Social Theory and Methods of Social Science. The second semester moves from foundations to applied analysis via modules such as Theorising Social and Political Phenomena, Examining Global Political Dynamics and Analysing International Policies. The third semester focuses on Research Design and offers flexible options for gaining practical experience or broadening your profile. The programme concludes in the fourth semester with an MA thesis supported by a dedicated seminar.
Core modules strengthen your ability to interpret contemporary world politics through multiple theoretical lenses and to situate political phenomena within broader social theory. The Methods of Social Science and Research Design components develop robust qualitative and/or quantitative research skills so you can formulate research questions, select appropriate methodologies and carry out independent empirical work. The mid‑programme modules on theorising and examining global dynamics train you to critically analyse international policies and transnational processes. Optional elements — a research internship, a study abroad semester and General Studies (for example, courses from other master’s programmes or German language classes) — allow you to gain practical experience, international exposure and additional competencies. The programme culminates in an MA thesis, demonstrating your ability to design, execute and present sustained research.
Requirements (concise)
This master's programme expects applicants to hold a completed bachelor's degree (or an equivalent qualification) in international relations, political science, sociology or a closely related discipline. Degrees from comparable social-science fields will be considered on their merits; equivalency is assessed as part of the admissions procedure.
For full details about entry criteria, required documents and the application process, consult the programme's admission webpage. If you need guidance on how to travel to or reach the campus, step‑by‑step directions are available on the university's BAToMA information page.
Winter Semester (International)
1 February 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
1 February 2027
Graduates are prepared for careers that require strong theoretical grounding and empirical research skills, such as policy analysis, research positions in think tanks and NGOs, roles in international organisations, and governmental or consultancy work focused on global and regional politics. The programme's emphasis on methods and a substantive understanding of social theory is also good preparation for doctoral study and academic research.
For students aiming to work in Germany, optional German language courses and the opportunity to take courses across other University of Bremen master's programmes help bridge into the local job market and expand professional networks.
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