Content of the Study Programme

The master's programme in International Relations (MAIR) is one of the most competitive programmes in Europe and has been offered jointly by Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and the Universität Potsdam since 2003. For an innovative concept, high-quality teaching, and a convincing international orientation, the MAIB received a quality label from the DAAD and the “Stifterverbandes für die Deutsche Wissenschaft”. It was named one of the ten best international master’s programmes in Germany.

The degree programme provides you with in-depth academic and professional knowledge, i.e., theories and methods in international relations, skills, and abilities for scientific work as well as empirical expertise in the field of international politics. Thanks to the cooperation of the three universities, you will benefit from a comprehensive range of courses that encompasses a broad spectrum of theoretical approaches, thematic subject areas, and distinctive regional expertise.

As part of the master’s degree programme in International Relations, you choose one of two possible specialisations, Global Challenges or EU Studies. The subject areas of the degree include:

• international organisations and institutions,
• political economy and international economic relationships,
• comparative foreign policy and regional analysis,
• peace and conflict studies and security policy,
• EU studies
• methods of empirical social research.

The courses are offered in German as well as in English. A professional internship is a compulsory part of the degree programme. In addition, a stay abroad is highly recommended.

Study Objective and Future Areas of Work

In this degree programme, you pursue the goal of qualifying yourself theoretically as well as practically for the complexity of world politics in the 21st century. The degree Master of Arts International Relations qualifies you for PhD studies, if applicable, taking into account special further admission requirements. With your degree, you also have access to the Higher Civil Service.

Furthermore, the study of International Relations qualifies you for specific activities in:

• international organizations and institutions,
• institutions of development cooperation,
• non-governmental-organizations (NGO´s),
• journalism,
• private sector.