About the program

The program offers students the unique opportunity to:

• acquire the ability to analyze global challenges through an interdisciplinary lens based on theoretically and empirically informed research
• critically reflect on the practice of global politics, humanitarianism and development in theoretical, practical, and ethical terms
• experience the spirit of collaboration with students, academics and activists from universities and partner organisations in the ‘Global South’
• apply qualitative field research methods in their own project abroad, and combine them with quantitative skills, including GIS
• gain practical experience and communication skills in different disciplinary and professional contexts

1. An interest in global issues

You are curious about the significant challenges of our time, such as climate change, social inequality, migration, or sustainable development, and want to understand how they are interlinked.

2. A desire for research

You are interested in qualitative research or ethnographic studies and want to learn how to investigate complex social and environmental contexts empirically. You strive for academic excellence and thereby actively contribute to shaping a fair and sustainable future.

3. An interest in international collaboration and fieldwork

You would like to gain international experience through collaboration with partner institutions in the Global South or through field research projects in different cultural and geographical contexts. You are passionate about field work, willing to adapt to unfamiliar living and working conditions, and able to work and research in different cultural contexts.

The MA program is a major program consisting of 90 ECTS credits combined with a 30 ECTS minor program.

The program includes theoretical modules on Concepts and Debates, modules focused on Research Methods and Practice, a selection of Focus Modules that introduce students to themes, and a MA thesis. The remaining credits can be earned from a list of freely selectable courses.

For more details, please read the page Modules and courses.
For content-related questions, please contact Dr Christine Schenk.

1. What are the conditions for admission to the program?

Admission is granted sur dossier, i.e., we examine your application documents individually. Generally, a Bachelor's degree in a relevant subject in social sciences, such as geography, social and cultural anthropology, or a related discipline is required. For more details, please read the admission requirements.

Admission is subject to the subsequent submission of the Bachelor's degree or an official confirmation of graduation. If a certificate of your Bachelor’s degree is not yet available, we will examine only your transcript of records at this stage of your application.

2. Is it possible to study abroad or conduct field research?

Yes, the program offers opportunities for international cooperation, especially with partner institutions in the Global South. Students can take part in field research abroad and gain significant intercultural experience. You might carry out your fieldwork for the dissertation with a partner university. Or you might carry out field research embedded in an organizational setup.

3. How long does it take to study the program, and in which language is it taught?

The program typically lasts two years (four semesters) and is taught in English. Knowledge of other languages may be an advantage for fieldwork and some optional modules.

4. What support will I receive in planning and carrying out my master thesis?

The program offers comprehensive support throughout the research process, from developing a research topic to conducting fieldwork and writing the dissertation. Courses are offered in research design qualitative methods, and you may choose to take courses in quantitative methods, Geographical Information Systems (GIS), and multimodal approaches.

5. What funding opportunities are available?

A range of scholarships and financial support is available. Students can contact the Student Financial Aid Office for information on scholarships, loans, or other funding options.

6. When is the next deadline for starting the program in Fall 2026, and where do I submit my application?

The next application window opens on 15 November 2025 and closes on 15 January 2026 at 23:59 CEST.

You can submit your application through the admission website of the Global Futures Program (Admission).

7. What are the fees for students?

You can find a complete overview of the fees here: Fees for students

8. What happens after the academic assessment?

Once you have submitted your application to the Global Future's selection committee and the interview has taken place (or been waived), the selection committee will notify you of the outcome.
If you are selected as a candidate for the program, you will be required to submit your documents—such as your Bachelor's degree certificate, transcript of records, and any additional required documents—to the Admissions Office.
For more information, please consult Admission to the Master's program