Development Studies

Interdisciplinary master's programme that develops advanced analytical and conceptual tools for understanding economic and social development from political, social, and regional perspectives.

Academic requirements

This first degree must have been obtained as part of a programme of study with a minimum standard duration of three years' full-time study.

Minimum GPA

Equivalent to German grade 2.5 or better, or proof of ranking in the top 50% of the cohort.

English requirements

English level B2 CEFR if English was not the applicant's first language or medium of instruction in the previous degree.

German requirements

To help you go about your daily life in Germany, it is advantageous to have at least basic German language skills. Therefore, if you have a German language certificate at level A1 CEFR (i.e. beginner's level), you should enclose a certified copy of it when you apply. Do not worry if you do not have basic German skills or cannot provide a certificate, as you will take a free beginner's German language course during the first year of studies in Passau.

Accepted bachelor fields

Requires a first degree in a social science such as economics, anthropology, demography, empirical social or human geography, sociology, political science, administrative science, or an equivalent degree with at least 60 ECTS in one or more of these disciplines.

APS Certificate

Yes

Thesis required

Yes

Mandatory internship

No

Tuition fee

None

Semester contribution

123.70 EUR per semester in Summer Semester 2026.

ECTS credits

120

Funding info

Tuition: None Semester contribution: 123.70 EUR per semester in Summer Semester 2026.

The programme addresses the worldwide need for experts in the expanding field of development research as well as for project managers in international development cooperation.

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