Political science

Political science examines how political and social ideas are implemented organisationally and legally in the state, institutions and parties, but also in international relations. They are concerned with how various interest groups exert influence and in what forms political decision-making takes place.

Important auxiliary and secondary subjects are history, sociology, constitutional law and economics.

When you study political science, you will learn how political and social structures work.

• The programme includes modules on political theory and the history of ideas, for example, in which fundamental concepts such as democracy, authority and justice are examined.
• You will also analyse political institutions and systems in order to understand how governments work and what decision-making processes take place.
• In the field of international relations, you will deal with foreign policy, global conflicts and the role of international organisations.
• Methods of empirical social research such as surveys or data analyses will help you to systematically investigate political phenomena.

Depending on the university, supplementary modules in subjects such as history, communication studies, philosophy, law, economics or sociology are offered in the Master's programme.

You should have a keen interest in political and social issues and enjoy thinking analytically and grasping complex interrelationships. Good language skills, especially in English, are important, as many scientific texts and discussions are internationally orientated. An affinity for data and its analysis is an advantage. A sound knowledge of politics/social studies, economics/law and history is also helpful.

The subjects in this area include not only political science, but also international relations, political and social sciences and specialised Master's courses in development policy and peace and conflict research.