Political Science
University of Frankfurt (Goethe University Frankfurt), Germany
Master of Arts in Political Science
Goethe University Frankfurt
Political Science
Program Overview: MA Political Science at Goethe University Frankfurt
The consecutive and research-based Master of Arts in Political Science is offered by the Institute of Political Science at Goethe University Frankfurt, one of the largest political science departments in Germany. With 22 professors and over 50 research associates, the program delivers in-depth scientific knowledge across the full breadth of political science, building on the internationally renowned Frankfurt tradition of social sciences.
The program enables intensive engagement with paradigmatic, theoretical, and methodological foundations of political science, covering exemplary questions from Political Theory, Comparative Politics, and International Relations. Students develop the skills required to work independently according to scientific principles, apply research methods, and critically reflect on societal interrelationships.
Current research priorities at the institute include Democracy in Comparative Perspective, Comparative Capitalism, Justice and Legitimacy in a Transnational Perspective, and Competing International Governance. Students benefit from a research placement and a compulsory professional internship to gain practical experience for later employment.
Key Program Highlights
- Housed in Germany's largest Institute of Political Science with 22 professors and over 50 research associates
- Three specialization tracks: Political Theory, Comparative Politics, and International Relations
- Research-oriented curriculum with integrated research placement and compulsory professional internship
- Located in Frankfurt am Main, home to the European Central Bank and major international institutions
Curriculum and Modules
The MA Political Science curriculum combines foundational theoretical and methodological training with flexible specialization options across three core areas. Students complete compulsory modules, choose from a wide range of electives within their specialization, and undertake both a research placement and a professional internship.
Theoretical Paradigms and Methods of Political Science
15 ECTSThis foundational module introduces students to the major theoretical paradigms, epistemological debates, and advanced research methods in political science, forming the methodological backbone of the program.
Political Theory
15 ECTSStudents explore normative and analytical political theory, examining questions of justice, democracy, legitimacy, and the philosophical foundations of political order in both historical and contemporary contexts.
Comparative Politics
15 ECTSThis module covers the comparative analysis of political systems, institutions, and processes, including topics such as democratic governance, party systems, welfare states, and varieties of capitalism.
International Relations
15 ECTSStudents examine theories and practices of international politics, including global governance, foreign policy analysis, transnational processes, and the dynamics of conflict and cooperation.
Research Practice (Project Study)
15 ECTSIn this module, students deepen their methodological knowledge by designing and conducting their own empirical research project under faculty supervision, preparing them for their master's thesis.
Master's Thesis
30 ECTSThe thesis represents the culmination of the program, requiring students to produce an original, independent piece of scholarly research on a topic within political science under the guidance of a faculty advisor.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
Admission to the MA Political Science at Goethe University Frankfurt is competitive and research-oriented. Applicants should hold a relevant undergraduate degree and demonstrate strong academic preparation in political science or a closely related discipline. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on your application.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeBachelor's degree in Political Science or a comparable degree in a related field
- Subject-Specific CreditsMinimum 60 credit points in political science as a major or minor subject
- Academic PerformanceStrong academic record in your bachelor's degree; final grade is a key selection criterion
- Non-Standard BackgroundsApplicants with fewer than 60 CP in political science are assessed individually by the selection committee
- MotivationLetter of motivation demonstrating interest in research-oriented political science study
Language Requirements
- DSHDSH-2 or equivalent certification
- TestDaFTestDaF with a minimum score of 4 in all sections
- Other Accepted CertificatesGoethe Certificate C2, telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule, or KMK German Language Diploma DSD II at C1 level
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Goethe University Frankfurt offers several funding opportunities for international students pursuing the MA in Political Science. As a public university in Germany, the program has no standard tuition fees, though a semester contribution covering administrative costs and a public transportation pass is required. Additional scholarships can help cover living expenses.
Deutschlandstipendium
EUR 300 per monthA merit-based national scholarship program co-funded by the German government and private sponsors, awarded to high-achieving students regardless of nationality based on academic excellence and social engagement.
DAAD Scholarships for International Students
Varies by programThe German Academic Exchange Service offers comprehensive support for international master's students, including monthly stipends, health insurance coverage, and research allowances. Eligibility criteria and amounts vary by program.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the MA Political Science program at Goethe University Frankfurt are well-prepared for careers across politics, society, the media, and academia. The program's research-oriented approach, combined with the compulsory professional internship, equips students with analytical, methodological, and critical thinking skills highly valued by employers in Frankfurt's vibrant international environment.
Potential Career Paths
Potential Employers
Rankings and Recognition
Goethe University Frankfurt is one of Germany's leading research universities, consistently ranked among the top institutions globally. Founded in 1914 as Germany's first citizens' university, it has built a strong international reputation, particularly in the social sciences and humanities. The Institute of Political Science is the largest of its kind in Germany.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences | THE World University Rankings | #151-175 |
| Sociology | QS World University Rankings | Top 150 |
| Arts and Humanities | THE World University Rankings | #126-150 |
| Law | THE World University Rankings | #98 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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