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Deutsch Who is the Master’s in Politics, Administration & International Relations suitable for?
The Master's programme in Politics, Administration & International Relations at Zeppelin University is aimed at graduates from various fields who seek a scientifically grounded and at the same time practice-oriented engagement with international political processes, administrative structures and global challenges. It is especially addressed to individuals who wish to deepen their knowledge in International Relations, Political Science, Administration and Global Governance – with the goal of later working in international organisations, diplomatic services, NGOs, public administration or globally operating companies. The programme is interdisciplinary and taught in English, thus also offering a perspective for career changers, for example from the fields of Economics, Social Sciences, Law or Computer Science.
What admission requirements apply for the Master’s?
To be admitted, you need a first professionally qualifying university degree, usually a Bachelor’s degree with at least 180 ECTS credits. This can be from various disciplines – there is no subject-specific restriction. No specific grade point average (Numerus Clausus) is required. Very good English skills at C1 level are necessary, as the entire programme is conducted in English. A formal proof of English proficiency does not necessarily have to be submitted with the application, as language skills will be assessed during the selection process. Applications are made via the Zeppelin University application portal and include participation in a structured selection procedure (“Pioneers Wanted!”), in which your personal motivation, academic interests and suitability for the programme are evaluated.
For the course, you should bring openness to interdisciplinary work as well as an interest in international, social and political issues. Analytical thinking skills, communication ability and the willingness to independently engage with complex contexts scientifically are important. Initiative, teamwork skills and confident English in spoken and written form are essential to actively participate in seminars, projects and international discussions. Initial experience gained through internships, involvement in politics, administration, NGOs or intercultural experiences is helpful but not obligatory.
Which topics are central in the Master Politics, Administration & International Relations programme?
In the Master’s programme Politics, Administration & International Relations, you engage intensively with current challenges in international politics, administration, and global governance. The curriculum is based on an interdisciplinary approach, enabling you to scientifically analyse issues in the fields of security policy, war and peace, development and climate policy, international organisations, as well as administrative practice. Key study contents include, among others:
- International Relations & Global Politics: Analysis of international actors, political systems, global conflicts and cooperation structures
- Political Norms, Institutions & Behavior: Examination of political theories, decision-making processes, norms, and the behaviour of political actors
- Public Management & Digitalisierung: Structures and control of public administrations, the impact of digitalisation and innovations in the public sector
- Research Skills: Qualitative and quantitative research methods, independent development of research-based solutions for complex political issues
- Elective Areas: Individual specialisations, e.g. in the areas of security policy, environmental and climate policy, or EU institutions
Within the course of study, you will develop analytical, methodological and communication skills, practise negotiation as well as cultural sensitivity, and be enabled to independently assess and shape global processes.
How is the course progression organised?
The Master’s programme lasts four semesters (two years) and is designed as a full-time on-site programme. The language of instruction is English. The start of studies is each winter semester. You will learn in small, international groups and benefit from close support by the teaching team.
- Compulsory modules in the first semesters provide you with solid foundations and methods of international politics and administration.
- Elective subjects enable you to deepen your knowledge in selected thematic areas individually.
- Practical projects and research seminars are integrated into the programme. You have the opportunity to participate in research projects or develop your own empirical work, for example within the framework of the Elinor Ostrom projects.
- Practical orientation is promoted through internships, study projects and exchanges with partner organisations (e.g. through an internship at the EU Delegation to the United Nations in Geneva).
- Internationality is a central element: The course is strongly internationally oriented, and there is the option to spend a semester abroad at one of the partner universities.
- Final thesis (Master’s thesis): In the fourth semester, you will complete your independent research work on a freely chosen thematic focus.
In which professional fields can you apply this degree?
With the Master’s degree Politics, Administration & International Relations, a wide range of international career paths are open to you. Typical professional fields and areas of employment include:
- Diplomatic service and international organisations: Positions at the UN, World Bank, WHO, EU institutions or national ministries
- Policy advice and public affairs: Expertise in consulting firms, think tanks, political foundations or associations
- International non-governmental organisations (NGOs/NPOs): Project management, policy development and advocacy in social, ecological or development policy organisations
- Administration and public institutions: Specialist and management roles in municipal, national or international contexts
- Science and research: Doctoral studies and academic careers at universities and research institutes
- Business and international companies: Roles in corporate social responsibility, sustainability or government relations
The expertise imparted in negotiation, policy-making and analytical problem-solving qualifies you especially for positions requiring an in-depth understanding of international interrelations.
Where does the course take place and how is the campus organised?
The course is offered at the Friedrichshafen location on Lake Constance. Zeppelin University operates two campus areas:
- SeeCampus: Located directly on the shore of Lake Constance, it offers modern seminar and lounge rooms for an inspiring learning atmosphere.
- ZF-Campus: Situated in the Fallenbrunnen area with a focus on research, administration and additional seminar rooms.
Internationality and student life are promoted through close cooperation with partner universities and various local initiatives.
What costs and financing options can you expect?
The tuition fees for the four-semester Master’s programme Politics, Administration & International Relations amount to €6,150 per semester, totalling €24,600 for the entire programme. Alternatively, monthly payments are possible, amounting to approx. €805.
- Scholarships: Zeppelin University offers a wide range of scholarships awarded not only for outstanding achievements but also for social, cultural or political engagement.
- Financing programmes: Schemes such as the ZU Education Fund, study loans and various funding models support financing your studies.
Furthermore, all students have access to individual financial advice. A mandatory semester fee is payable in addition to the tuition fees.
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