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Deutsch Who is the Interdisciplinary Research Master at Zeppelin University suitable for?
The Interdisciplinary Research Master | IRMA is aimed at graduates who want to conduct independent and interdisciplinary research. The target group primarily includes students with a first degree in economics, sociology, cultural studies, philosophy, communication sciences, political science or public administration. It addresses young thinkers who want to tackle current and future societal challenges through a self-designed research project – with the aim of either academically qualifying themselves or exploring new solutions in business, culture or politics. The programme is suitable for everyone who does not seek fixed curricula but wants to develop and realise their own research project with individual supervision.
What formal admission requirements apply?
The following criteria must be met for admission to IRMA:
- First professional university degree (Bachelor or equivalent) in a subject-related degree programme such as economics, sociology, cultural studies, philosophy, communication or political and administrative sciences
- Good German and English skills (relevant for studies, partly international literature and modules)
- Application procedure including a personal selection interview with presentation of the planned research project and individual study motivation
Whether additional requirements such as a minimum grade or ECTS credits apply is examined on a case-by-case basis during the admissions procedure. Zeppelin University publishes the details at the start of each application period and provides individual information during advisory interviews.
You should bring personal qualities such as initiative, self-organisation and a pronounced curiosity about interdisciplinary research. Openness to different scientific cultures, creative thinking and the willingness to engage deeply in your own research project are important. Experience in academic work, interest in societal, economic or cultural issues, and the ability to learn independently are helpful. Communication skills and enjoyment of exchanging ideas with supervisors and other students support your success in this flexible, advice-intensive master’s programme.
Course Content in Detail
The Interdisciplinary Research Master | IRMA at Zeppelin University is aimed at students who wish to carry out their own research project at the intersection of economics, culture, and politics. The curriculum is individually designed and follows the logic of an independent, interdisciplinary project. You will develop a particularly practice-oriented and scientifically sound research design in close exchange with professors.
- Foundation Phase: Teaching of basic methodological skills from the disciplines involved (e.g. empirical social research, qualitative and quantitative analyses, academic work), introduction to project management and interdisciplinary research
- Major Phase: Specialisation in individually selected research interests, working on your own empirical research question, options for profile building through modules in economics, cultural, communication, social or political sciences
- Master Phase: Completion and presentation of the self-developed research project in the form of the master’s thesis
The focus is on interdisciplinary problem solving, project management, methodological diversity and analytical thinking. You will develop skills to independently tackle complex scientific questions and to transfer research results into practical contexts.
Course Structure
The IRMA Master’s programme comprises 4 semesters (2 years) and is designed as an on-campus course. The study concept is divided into the following phases:
- Semester 1 – Foundation Phase: Introduction to research methods, basic seminars of the disciplines involved, and development of an individual research design under supervision
- Semesters 2 and 3 – Major Phase: Conducting empirical research, choice from a wide range of modules for further specialisation and for profiling your project
- Semester 4 – Master Phase: Completion and defence of the master’s thesis based on your independently developed research project
The study programme offers you maximum individualisation and supervision in small study groups. A high degree of independent working and flexible options characterise the course of study.
Career Prospects & Employment Opportunities
Graduates of IRMA benefit from pronounced interdisciplinary skills and their own research experience. They are qualified for diverse positions in academia, business, administration, politics and cultural institutions.
- Doctorate and academic career: Due to the project orientation and close research supervision, the programme provides excellent conditions for pursuing a doctorate and entering research institutes or universities.
- Research and development departments: Companies and organisations seek professionals capable of independently analysing complex problems and working project-oriented at the interfaces of various disciplines.
- Think tanks, foundations and consultancy: The acquired analytical and methodological competences are ideal for roles in policy advice, concept development and organisational research.
- Leadership and innovation: Graduates often take on responsible tasks in innovation management, project leadership or change management, especially in interdisciplinary teams.
The international orientation and practical relevance also give you advantages when applying at home and abroad.
Study Location
The Interdisciplinary Research Master | IRMA programme is conducted at the Zeppelin University campus in Friedrichshafen on Lake Constance. ZU has two central locations:
- SeeCampus directly on Lake Constance for central lectures and an open research environment
- ZF Campus in the Fallenbrunnen area with modern seminar rooms and research infrastructure
On campus you will find a lively student community, numerous student initiatives and direct contact with teaching staff. The location is characterised by a high quality of stay and excellent conditions for project-oriented work.
Costs and Financing
The tuition fees for the IRMA Master at Zeppelin University amount to €7,300 per semester, a total of €29,200 for the standard study period of four semesters. A monthly payment option for the fees is available.
- Diverse scholarship offers, also for social engagement and special biographies
- Educational fund of the university for income-dependent repayment after graduation
- Financing options via student loans at partner banks
- Support in finding external funding opportunities
The university places great emphasis on individual advice on study financing and aims to enable qualified applicants to have independent educational opportunities.
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