Your future begins in Siegen
The one-year M.A. Social Sciences in Europe provides you with research-oriented, theory-driven and interdisciplinary knowledge based on the current international state of research in the social sciences.
The course focuses on the diversity of social and political realities and the complex, often cross-border transformation processes of the present.
The development and implementation of your own final project is at the heart of the course. The Master's thesis should focus on Europe, transnationalization or globalization or take an international comparative perspective. The degree will enable you to develop independent social science analyses and suitable solutions that are required in a variety of professional fields.
Everything at a glance
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Start of studies
winter semester and
summer semester -
Standard period of study
2 semesters -
Admission restricted
No -
Language of instruction
German and English
Career prospects
The Master's degree provides you with knowledge, skills and methods that can be used in a wide range of academic fields. Employers and fields of activity include
- Internationally operating companies or governmental and non-governmental organizations (e.g. institutions of the European Union)
- Advisory staff and general secretariats of foundations
- Political parties, associations or public administration
Students studying Social Sciences in Europe
The program's academic rigor is another highlight.
Studying for my Master's in Social Sciences at the University of Siegen has been a transformative experience that has greatly enhanced my academic and personal growth. As a student with an immigrant background, navigating the German educational system was initially challenging, but the exceptional support from academic advisors made the transition smooth. Their guidance helped me select courses that align with my goals and career aspirations.
A standout feature of the program is the clear instructions in the module handbook, which provides a comprehensive roadmap for students, outlining curriculum, learning outcomes, and expectations. Despite speaking German at a C1 level, I found it challenging to connect with local students. However, collaborative projects and seminars allowed me to engage meaningfully with peers. I am particularly proud of having taken seminars conducted in German, despite living in Germany for less than three years. This immersion has strengthened my language skills and enhanced my integration into the local community.
The program's academic rigor is another highlight. Lectures are dynamic, encouraging critical thinking and participation. Through this program, I have deepened my understanding of key issues like democracy, migration, and social cohesion. Interactive seminars foster diverse perspectives and encourage us to apply theory to real-world contexts. The feedback from lecturers has been invaluable in improving my research and writing. As I approach my final semester, I am particularly excited about the opportunity to write my Master thesis. This capstone project allows me to delve into topics I am passionate about, particularly concerning social cohesion and integration within German societies. The knowledge and analytical skills I have gained throughout the program have equipped me to tackle this academic challenge with confidence.
- Completion of the four-year Bachelor's degree program in Social Sciences in Europe or a comparable degree program with a grade of at least "good" (2.5).
- In addition, proof of knowledge in the field of European studies, globalization or transnationalization amounting to at least 36 CP must be provided.
- The Bachelor's degree course should have included 60 CP of study abroad.
Applicants with a degree in comparable, but only three-year Bachelor's degree courses must also provide evidence of successfully completing at least one year of relevant study abroad.
The current examination regulations always apply.
Examination regulations including study plans and module descriptions
Framework Examination Regulations (RPO-M) and the General Subject-Specific Regulations of the Subject Examination Regulations (PHIL-FPO-M) define the general framework conditions for studying in Siegen and at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities.
In addition, the Subject Examination Regulations of the individual (sub-)degree programs (FPOs) define the basic structures of a (sub-)degree program (e.g. admission requirements and content to be studied). The subject examination regulations are accompanied by study course plans, which represent the recommended exemplary course of study in the individual subjects, as well as module descriptions (content-related information on modules).
The current version of an FPO automatically applies to students when they enrol for their first semester.
Good reasons for studying Social Sciences in Europe at the University of Siegen
- one-year Master's program
- interdisciplinary (political science and sociology)
- current and internationally comparative research questions (topics: Europe, transnationalization or globalization)
- Good combination of research and teaching
- opportunity to do a doctorate
