Global Political Economy & Development

Subjects: Politics;Economy;Development

M.A. | Master of Arts

Course description

The master’s degree course in Global Political Economy and Development (GPED) aims to help students develop a critical understanding of various theoretical approaches and practical issues, as well as the wide spectrum of institutions, players, and processes in the Global Political Economy. The course also seeks to enable students to apply this knowledge in practice. Different seminars introduce students to the institutions, actors, structures, and processes characterizing globalized capitalism, North-South relations, and development cooperation. The focus is on the global level, but it also looks at regional and national settings from a comparative perspective. The program is interdisciplinary and is taught by scholars from diverse backgrounds, including political science, sociology, and economics. The curriculum is based on a pluralist understanding of political economy and development, covering both mainstream and critical perspectives. It emphasizes the importance of an integrated approach to research, linking empirical analysis with methodological and theoretical considerations. Moreover, there is a practical component to GPED: Students are expected to complete a two-month internship relevant to the program topics. These internships can be undertaken at NGOs, international organizations, research centers, and similar institutions.

Application Requirements

Language Requirements

A university degree related to a course where the foreign language required was a major focus of studies. A course at a post-secondary education centre (e.g. a university) which lasted at least two years and the language, evidence of which needs to be provided, was the primary language of tuition. Evidence of having successfully completed a language course if a final certificate was issued. Level C 1 Association of Language Testers in Europe (ALTE) Level 4 UNIcert III® C1 Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Internet-Based iBT total 95+ Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) 490-495 (listening) and 455-495 (reading) International English Language testing System (IELTS) Min. band score 7.0 - 8.0 telc English C 1 English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) (Cambridge University) Certificate in Advanced English (CAE), Certificate in English Language Skills (CELS) Higher, Business English Certificate (BEC) Higher Pearson PTE Academic Sprachniveau C1: 84 – 76 Punkte

Qualification Requirements

A bachelor degree in social sciences, political science, economics, law or a related fiel with a study period of at least 6 semesters; A minimum cumulative grade of 2.5 according to the German grading system; The Bachelor's degree profile must indicate good knowledge of political science, sociology or economics. At least a combined total of one year volunteer and/or work experience in the social sciences (e.g. politics, university policy, policy-oriented civil society organizations) Knowledge of the English language equivalent to level C1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEF). A statement of purpose (no more than 3 pages) covering the following aspects: A description of your socio-political commitment. Naming one specific problem in the global political economy. The link between your previous qualifications and your future professional goals and the Global Political Economy course.

Document Requirements

Copy of your university entrance qualification certificate Officially certified copy of your first professional university degree (certificate: e.g. Bachelor's degree, Diplom I, state examination). If you do not have a Bachelor's degree certificate at the time of application, please submit the following evidence: Preliminary overview of subjects and grades of your previous studies and the certificate on the status in your studies, completed and signed by your current examination office: Bescheinigung zum Stand im Studium. At the time of application, at least 80% of the credits required for graduation must have already been earned and passed. This equates to 144 out of 180 or 168 out of 210 credits. In addition, proof of admission to the Bachelor's thesis (indicating the date of submission) must be available. Further proof specified in the examination regulations (see above).