Overview This English‑taught Master’s programme trains students to analyse and shape governance and public policy in a fast‑changing, interconnected world. Built on a multidisciplinary approach, it equips graduates to make responsible, evidence‑based decisions under uncertainty by combining political theory, quantitative methods and applied perspectives on governance, development and sociology. The programme is accredited and has received the Seal of Quality from the Foundation for the Accreditation of Study Programmes in Germany.
Curriculum and strengths Foundation modules cover political theory, governance and development or sociology, plus research and quantitative methods. Specialisation modules examine contemporary topics such as power, inequality, sustainability and the transformation of global political landscapes in the digital, networked age. Because governance is tightly linked to public communication, the curriculum also addresses communication theory, media relations and social media cultures. Small masterclasses provide a favourable staff‑to‑student ratio and intensive interaction with faculty.
International opportunities and recognition The programme maintains numerous international partnerships (e.g. France, Hungary, Pakistan, Romania, the UK and the USA) and offers double‑degree paths with Andrássy University Budapest and the University of Ljubljana. It is also one of only seven German degree programmes accepted into the DAAD’s Helmut‑Schmidt Programme (Public Policy and Good Governance), underscoring its strength in public policy education.
Key facts and highlights
Curriculum overview
This Master's is organised into three module groups plus a final thesis, designed to combine theoretical foundations, methodological training and focused specialisation. In the foundation stage you take two compulsory modules from the “Governance and State in Globalised Societies” group — namely Perspectives on Governance and Political Theory and Comparative Politics — and choose one of two complementary modules (International Politics and Political Aspects of Development or Sociology). You also complete two modules in Empirical Research Methods in the Social Sciences to build rigorous quantitative and/or qualitative research skills. Together these modules give you the conceptual tools to analyse institutions, state-society relations and global policy challenges.
Specialisation and outcomes
In the specialisation phase you deepen that foundation by engaging with interdisciplinary perspectives on major contemporary issues. Core thematic strands include Power, Authority and Democracy; Conflict, Inequality and Violence; Regulation and Transformation; and Sustainability and Values. The transfer module stage lets you convert learning into practical or advanced research experience through options such as a language course, an internship, a research tutorial or by moving straight to the Master’s thesis. The programme culminates in an independent Master’s thesis. On completion you will have acquired advanced theoretical knowledge, applied empirical research capabilities, interdisciplinary analytical skills and the option to gain practical or language competencies — all totalling 120 ECTS.
Key requirements and components
This master’s programme is designed for students with a solid foundation in the social sciences, economics or law. To be considered for admission you must hold an undergraduate university degree in one or more social sciences, in economics, or a law degree. The university will convert your final diploma grade into the German grading scale as part of the application assessment.
You will need to submit a final or preliminary transcript (Transcript of Records) that documents your coursework and grades. The programme expects a minimum overall grade of 2.5 (or equivalent) on the German scale; if your degree does not meet this threshold, you may still be eligible if your previous institution provides an official statement showing you ranked among the best 70% of your cohort (i.e., students in the same exam period). Below are the specific academic requirements to include with your application.
Winter Semester (International)
30 April 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
30 April 2026
Graduates are prepared for policy, governance and advisory roles in public administrations, international organisations, NGOs, think tanks, and consulting firms. The programme’s mix of substantive policy knowledge, quantitative and qualitative methods training, and communications skills also suits positions in research institutes and advocacy organisations.
Hands‑on options such as internships, language training and international exchanges further enhance employability for both national and international careers in public policy, development and governance-related fields.
Philipps-Universität Marburg — Marburg
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin — Berlin
Hertie School — Berlin
Trier University — Trier