This double-degree Master’s combines the strengths of two highly regarded universities: one year is spent at each partner institution, resulting in two qualifications — a Master of Science in European Studies from Maastricht University and a Master of Arts in Political Science from the University of Cologne. The programme is delivered in English and is explicitly international in scope, designed for students who want a comparative and cross-border perspective on European politics.
The curriculum is research-oriented and interdisciplinary, giving you a thorough understanding of the institutions of the European Union and the political and policy challenges facing an integrated Europe. Emphasis is placed on rigorous training in both quantitative and qualitative research methods so you can conduct advanced research and work effectively in international academic or policy environments. Studying in Maastricht (Netherlands) and Cologne (Germany) also provides first-hand experience of two different European higher-education and cultural settings, expanding your professional network across countries.
Key facts and programme requirements (summary)
This double-degree curriculum combines the Research Master in European Studies at Maastricht and the MA in Political Science at Cologne, drawing on course offerings from both institutions. The programme is organised through mutual recognition of credit points, so your study plan will include modules delivered at each university and culminates in a Master's thesis written during the second year. The two universities’ course lists are intentionally complementary, giving you access to a broad set of seminars and electives.
Core teaching combines advanced, research-oriented coursework from both programmes with opportunities to specialise. While specific module lists vary by semester, the structure allows you to pick from different thematic tracks and elective options to match your interests. Learning outcomes focus on developing strong research skills, subject-matter expertise across European and political science topics, the ability to integrate perspectives from two academic systems, and the capacity to carry out and present independent, thesis-level research.
Practical notes for planning: review the most recent course catalogues at both universities to see available modules and specialisations, because minor changes may occur between semesters. Use the credit-recognition mechanism to build a coherent curriculum across the two institutions, and plan your research and supervision so your Master’s thesis is completed in the programme’s second year.
Requirements (concise)
This programme expects applicants to hold a completed Bachelor's degree with a solid grounding in political science and quantitative/social-scientific methods, plus a competitive overall grade. Admissions decisions are based on the content and grading of your prior degree as evaluated against the German higher-education system.
If you studied outside the ECTS framework or use a different grading scale, the admissions office will assess your transcript and course descriptions to determine equivalent ECTS credits and the German grade parity. International applicants should prepare a detailed transcript (with course titles, credit values and brief syllabi where possible) and check the programme’s website for the full, official list of requirements and any documentation or certification rules that apply to degrees from your country.
Admission requirements (summary)
Winter Semester (International)
1 May 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
1 June 2026
Graduates are prepared for careers in EU institutions, national and regional public administrations, international organisations, NGOs, research institutes and policy consultancies. The combination of substantive knowledge of European politics and rigorous empirical methods training makes alumni competitive for roles that require policy analysis, programme evaluation and evidence-based decision-making.
The programme also provides a strong foundation for academic careers and PhD programmes in political science, European studies and related social sciences. Employers value the international experience and the capacity to carry out independent research in multilingual, cross-national contexts.
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