This Master's programme trains you to critically examine complex questions of conflict, war, peace and international relations. You will acquire core theoretical and methodological knowledge, gain familiarity with central empirical issues and contexts, and learn to apply these tools to identify and analyse new problems in international politics. Graduates are expected to independently develop theoretical arguments and to assess policies addressing conflicts and other transnational challenges.
The curriculum emphasises research-based learning: theoretical knowledge is repeatedly applied to contemporary case studies to build epistemological judgement and practical methodological skills. Four foundational modules provide the programme’s conceptual and methodological backbone, while an elective area allows you to specialise according to your interests (for example, international law or peace education). The programme also offers regularly run practical excursions — National Model United Nations, Peace Boat, European Security Institutions and Mediation and Negotiation — which let you link classroom learning with field experience (these excursions require [co-]funding by participants).
Further details on compulsory and elective courses, assessment and module structure are provided in the module handbook, which is available on the programme website.
Curriculum overview
This two-year (four-semester) MA comprises 120 ECTS credits. Of these, 81 ECTS are assigned to compulsory modules including the final-exam module, while 39 ECTS come from elective courses. Students are advised to take the compulsory, thematic and methodological core modules in semesters 1 and 2, add elective courses beginning in semester 2 and complete remaining electives in semester 3. The third semester is particularly suitable for spending a semester abroad. The fourth semester is reserved for the compulsory final module, which contains the Master’s thesis, a thesis colloquium and the final oral examination. The recommended sequencing supports completion within the standard period of study but is not mandatory—students may rearrange courses to suit their interests and needs.
Teaching formats, key modules and learning outcomes
Most teaching takes the form of seminars; only three of the basic modules are delivered as lectures. Seminars, study trips and practical activities give students room to pursue particular conflicts, policy fields, theoretical approaches or research methods in depth. Over the course of the programme students acquire the thematic and methodological foundations of peace research and international relations and then apply these in a supervised research project (the Master’s thesis) assessed by a colloquium and oral exam. The programme also fosters a broad set of transferable skills through varied assessment and learning methods—role play, simulations, scenario writing, study trips, essays, presentations and class discussions—enabling graduates to present academic debates clearly, adopt professional attitudes and work effectively in teams and intercultural settings.
Key requirements and structure (concise)
This Master's programme is aimed at students who already hold a higher education entrance qualification and have completed a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Political Science, International Relations, or a closely related discipline. Applicants must demonstrate good academic standing — a final Bachelor grade of at least "good" (2.5, upper second class or equivalent). International final grades are converted into the German grading scale for assessment.
Recognition of foreign degrees and the official conversion of international grades is handled by the university’s central Student Affairs Office (Advising and Admission of International Students). It is advisable to contact that office early if you are unsure whether your prior degree will be recognised or how your grades will translate. Admissions decisions also take into account relevant practical experience and distinctions in related fields.
Winter Semester (International)
31 May 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
31 May 2026
Graduates are prepared for careers in international organisations, governmental and non-governmental organisations, diplomacy, policy analysis, conflict resolution and research institutions. The programme’s strong methodological training and emphasis on applied case studies make alumni competitive for roles in policy advising, program design and evaluation, and international project work.
The degree also provides a solid foundation for doctoral research in political science, peace and conflict studies or related social science fields. Employers value the combination of analytical competence, practical negotiation and mediation skills, and intercultural teamwork developed through the programme.
Philipps-Universität Marburg — Marburg
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin — Berlin
Hertie School — Berlin
Trier University — Trier