Interdisciplinary Studies on Eastern Europe, MA (English Option) Justus Liebig University Giessen

The Interdisciplinary Studies on Eastern Europe (ISEE) Master of Arts programme is a two-year programme featuring an interdisciplinary core module and courses in Slavic Studies, Eastern European History, Political Science, and Sociology.

The study programme at a glance:

• Master of Arts degree
• Consecutive, two-year Master's degree course of study
• Credits: 120 ECTS
• Major in Slavic Studies OR Eastern European History (50 CP)
• Choose two minors in: Slavic Studies, Eastern European History, Political Science, or Sociology (20 CP each)
• Master's thesis in the major field (interdisciplinary) (30 CP)

Programme content:

• interdisciplinary cultural competence related to Eastern Europe as well as comprehensive methodological competencies in various fields
• an introduction to interdisciplinary Eastern European research at the beginning of your studies
• occupational and practical training through project work and internships with an international perspective
• research and teaching covering all regions of Eastern Europe
• a broad historical focus in teaching about Eastern Europe, from the Middle Ages to the present day

https://www.uni-giessen.de/de/mug/7/pdf/7_36/05/7_36_05_8/7_36_05_8_2ae_2021

https://www.uni-giessen.de/fbz/zentren/gizo/gizomaster

An internship in Eastern Europe or in an institution or company working with Eastern Europe can be undertaken as an alternative to project work in a module.

A) BA degree (or an equivalent, officially recognised degree) related to the humanities or social sciences, with proven knowledge in the chosen major subject (20 CP) and one of the chosen minor subjects (10 CP) would be preferred. Applications with other BA degrees may also be under consideration.

B) Language skills: English min. B2 (details see below) 

C) Language skills: Slavic or Eastern European Language

403 EUR (summer semester 2026, varies slightly with each semester)

The current semester contribution can be found here: https://www.uni-giessen.de/en/org/admin/departments/b/5/studoffice/sc.

Approximately 900 to 1,000 EUR 

If you come to Germany from outside the EU or the European Economic Area (EEA), you will be required to present proof of financial resources already when you apply for a study visa. This serves as a guarantee that you can afford the cost of studying in Germany. Currently (as of 1 January 2025), you must prove that you have 992 EUR per month at your disposal, such as through a blocked account, proof of parental income or a recognised scholarship. For further information, please contact the German Embassy or Consulate in your country.

Giessen offers moderate living costs while being close to Frankfurt, a big city. Students can calculate about 400 to 500 EUR on average for rent, 150 to 200 EUR for food, 130 to 140 EUR for German statutory health insurance, and the remainder for leisure, travel, and other expenses.

• Partial scholarships for international students at JLU in the closing phase of their degree: Partial scholarships are possible for three to six months and range between 300 to 450 EUR per month. More: https://www.uni-giessen.de/en/international-pages/study/grants/closingphase

• DAAD scholarships for more equity and opportunity: Possible funding duration of one to six months, ranging from 300 to 450 EUR per month for students who face special challenges during their studies (a disability, a chronic illness, a refugee background, single parenting and those caring for close relatives in Germany). More: https://www.uni-giessen.de/en/international-pages/study/grants/equalopportunities

Career Service and special opportunities for international students: www.uni-giessen.de/en/faculties/research-centers/zfbk/career_services/

The cost of accommodation in Giessen ranges between 400 and 500 EUR/month on average. Students usually live in halls of residence provided by the Student Union (Studierendenwerk Giessen) or in shared flats from the private housing market.

Accommodation in the halls of residence is available between 240 and 420 EUR per month. The rooms are fully furnished and equipped with gas, electricity, warm water and internet. Students may apply for a spot in the halls of residence or search for private accommodation, ideally three to four months before starting their studies.

More information via www.uni-giessen.de/en/international-pages/study/around-gi/accommodation/where-to-live-in-giessen