Political Science

Overview

Degree: Master of Arts
Duration: 4 semesters
Restrictions: Without NC 1
Apply now!

Contents of the subject Political Science

Die Interdisziplinarität ist ein klares Highlight im Masterstudiengang Politikwissenschaft. Während des Studiums ist es möglich, auch über das Fach hinaus weitere Inhalte zu belegen. So kann man beispielsweise Module aus der Geschichtswissenschaft oder den Medienwissenschaften wählen oder eine neue Sprache erlernen. Ich habe in Bielefeld bereits meinen Bachelor in Politikwissenschaft absolviert und möchte den Master nutzen, um mich weiter zu spezialisieren und die Themen, die mich besonders interessieren, im Hinblick auf meinen späteren Beruf zu vertiefen.
 
Paul, Student
Theory-based analysis
The degree programme teaches the ability to analyse political actors and structures on the basis of theory. This enables students to understand and critically analyse complex political processes both nationally and internationally.

Interdisciplinary perspectives
The inclusion of social theory and sociological perspectives enables a comprehensive view of political issues. This interdisciplinary orientation promotes an understanding of the connections between politics and society.

Academic research orientation
The master's course places a strong focus on teaching academic research orientation and skills. Students are prepared to independently develop research questions and write academic papers.

Wide range of specialisation options
Students can choose from various specialisations, including (international) political theory, media and political communication and public policy. This flexibility allows students to customise their studies to suit their personal interests and career goals.

Engagement in current topics
The degree programme promotes student engagement in current political issues and social discourse. This not only strengthens their knowledge, but also their ability to actively participate in political processes.
The program opens up a wide range of career opportunities in various fields, such as:

Academia and Research: Graduates often find employment at universities and research institutions, where they can engage in political research. In these roles, they are frequently involved in analyzing and publishing new findings.

Political Organizations: A career in (international) political organizations or NGOs offers opportunities for graduates to help shape political programs and implement projects.

Public Relations and Journalism: Graduates can work in public relations or journalism, where they apply their skills in analyzing and communicating political issues.

Consulting: Management consulting firms often seek experts capable of translating political analysis into strategic decisions. Here, graduates can work as consultants and support companies.

Policy Consulting: Positions in policy consulting or at research institutes offer further career opportunities where graduates can apply their knowledge to support political decision-making and develop recommendations for action.

Access to the Master programme is granted to those who can provide evidence that they have a first university degree which has a standard period of study of at least six semesters, qualifies for exercising a profession and is in accordance with the subject-specific regulations.

In any case, please read the specific Admission requirements for this Masters programme in the Subject-specific regulations (PDF).
Degrees from accredited Bachelor programmes at German ‘Berufsakademien’ are equivalent to Bachelor degrees from universities.

Applicants with a university degree obtained abroad are granted access provided that the degree they have acquired is deemed sufficient for this purpose and they can provide evidence of the required language skills.
Further information on the application process for prospective international students and the language requirements.

Special conditions apply to applicants with a foreign certificate of education.

Course start

Studies can be commenced in both winter and summer semesters. Courses are targeted to commencing studies in winter semester. Student counselling to plan the course of studies is recommended.

Length and scope of studies

The standard period of studies is 4 semesters. Information on studying part time.

The studies Political Science comprise 120 credit points.

The study places for this degree programme are not subject to any admission restrictions (numerus clausus). Nevertheless, you need to apply within the currently applicable application deadlines.

As soon as you receive a positive response in the application and status portal (notice of access from the faculty), you can submit your application for enrolment within the set deadline.

Step by step to a Master programme without NC

Special conditions apply to applicants with a foreign certificate of education.

Application deadline reminder

To the application portal

You will find the programme of lectures for this course in the eKVV.

An overview of the introductory and information events is provided by the central student counselling services.

Legend

1

The information on admission restrictions / numerus clausus (NC) refers to applications for the winter semester 2026/27 and summer semester 2027.
Information on NC values from previous years