Diversity Studies in the Social Sciences (M.A)
North Campus, Germany
Diversity Studies in the Social Sciences (M.A.)
University of Göttingen
Social Sciences / Diversity Studies
Program Overview: Diversity Studies in the Social Sciences
The M.A. in Diversity Studies in the Social Sciences at the University of Göttingen is an explicitly research-oriented program that investigates how social diversity is constructed, maintained, and transformed. It systematically conveys in-depth specialist knowledge about social processes of differentiation, examining mechanisms of inclusion and exclusion across multiple dimensions of inequality.
The program takes an inter- and transdisciplinary social science perspective, analyzing classical sociological dimensions of inequality such as race, class, and gender alongside further dimensions including age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, and worldview. These categories and their intersectional interplay are examined across macro, meso, and micro levels of inquiry.
Students receive rigorous methodological training in both qualitative and quantitative research methods, enabling them to design and implement problem-based empirical research projects. The program also develops practical competencies, including the ability to design and deliver diversity trainings and evaluate diversity management concepts.
Key Program Highlights
- Research-oriented program with strong emphasis on intersectional analysis of social inequality across multiple dimensions
- Comprehensive methodological training in both qualitative and quantitative social science research methods
- Transdisciplinary approach drawing on sociology, political science, law, gender studies, economics, ethnology, and education
- Practical components including internship opportunities and Train the Diversity Trainer module bridging theory and professional practice
Curriculum and Modules
The curriculum is structured to provide a solid theoretical foundation in diversity research, advanced methodological skills, and practical application. Students progress through specialized modules that each focus on a specific analytical level of diversity, building expertise semester by semester toward the final Master's thesis.
Foundations of Diversity Studies
12 ECTSIntroduces core theories and concepts of diversity research, covering the social construction of categories of differentiation and their historical formation. Students explore foundational frameworks for analyzing social inequality and difference.
Social Science Research Methods
12 ECTSProvides comprehensive training in qualitative and quantitative research methods tailored to diversity research. Includes organizational research and evaluation research as core methodological foci.
Dimensions of Inequality and Intersectionality
12 ECTSExamines specific dimensions of social inequality including gender, ethnicity, class, age, disability, religion, and sexual orientation. Analyzes how these dimensions intersect and interact at different societal levels.
Diversity in Organizations
12 ECTSFocuses on how organizations manage growing social diversity, covering diversity management concepts, organizational culture, and evaluation research. Students learn to assess and develop institutional diversity strategies.
Train the Diversity Trainer
6 ECTSA practice-oriented module where students learn to design and implement diversity trainings and social justice workshops. Bridges academic knowledge with professional application in real-world settings.
Master's Thesis and Colloquium
30 ECTSIn the final semester, students develop and complete an independent research project as their Master's thesis. The accompanying colloquium provides a forum to present and discuss the project with peers and faculty.
Elective Specializations
Admission Requirements
Admission to the M.A. in Diversity Studies in the Social Sciences is based on academic qualifications in the social sciences or a closely related field. Prospective students should ensure they meet both the academic and language proficiency requirements before submitting their application through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeBachelor's degree or equivalent (minimum 180 ECTS) in a relevant subject area
- Subject-Specific CreditsAt least 60 ECTS in economic or social sciences
- Methods RequirementMinimum 4 ECTS in social science research methods
- Credits at ApplicationAt least 150 ECTS completed and recorded at the time of application
- Academic PerformanceCompetitive GPA in the undergraduate degree; contact Uni4Edu for current data on grade requirements
Language Requirements
- DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung)DSH-2 or equivalent
- TestDaFTDN 4 in all four sections
- Goethe-ZertifikatGoethe-Zertifikat C1 or higher
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Göttingen is a public institution that does not charge tuition fees for most programs. Several scholarship opportunities are available to help international students cover living expenses during their studies. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on funding options.
Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
EUR 300 per monthA merit-based scholarship open to all enrolled students regardless of nationality. It is funded jointly by the federal government and private sponsors, and supports academically talented students for a minimum of two semesters.
DAAD Scholarships for International Students
Approximately EUR 934 per month for Master's studentsThe German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers fully funded scholarships covering monthly stipends, health insurance, and travel allowances. These are available for highly motivated international students pursuing graduate studies in Germany.
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 M.A. in Diversity Studies are equipped with a unique combination of analytical, methodological, and practical skills that are increasingly sought after across multiple sectors. The program prepares you for careers in academia, public policy, corporate diversity management, and the nonprofit sector, with a broad range of professional fields open upon completion.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Göttingen, founded in 1737, is one of Germany's most prestigious research universities and a member of the German Excellence Universities network. It is consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide and is recognized for its strong social sciences faculty and interdisciplinary research culture.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences | Collegedunia | #196 |
| Arts and Humanities | THE | Top 150 |
| Social Sciences and Management | QS | Top 250 |
| Overall in Germany | THE | #8 |
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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