Double Master's Programme in Demography and Social Inequality - Master of Science University of Cologne
- Duration
- 4 semesters
- Language of instruction
- English
- Tuition fees
- No tuition fees
- Next application deadline
- 15 May 2027 (winter semester)
- Language level required
- English: C1German: None
Programme overview
Quick facts
- Degree
- MSc
- Duration
- 4 semesters
- Full-time / part-time
- Full-time
- Intake
- Winter semester
- Joint degree / double degree programme
- Yes
- A Diploma supplement will be issued
- Yes
- Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
- No
Language of instruction
English
Programme description
The double Master's programme, which is offered jointly by the University of Cologne and the University of Groningen, is an innovative and unique programme that will allow you to gain a comprehensive understanding of the theories, methods, and practices of social research in both academic and practical settings. Benefit from the expertise of two leading universities, enjoy the advantages of an interdisciplinary approach, and gain valuable international experience.
- Explore topics such as migration, health, education, income, ageing, and changing family structures in the context of demographic change and social inequalities
- Get a better understanding of pressing social issues related to demographic change and social inequality
- Receive rigorous training in a range of quantitative methods and data analysis tools
- Gain the skills to apply the methods and tools that are needed to address complex social issues in a rapidly changing world
- Acquire the ability to communicate social and demographic research results effectively to audiences beyond the research community, including policy makers.
On successful completion of your studies, you will be awarded both Master’s degrees: a Master of Science in Sociology: Social Research from the University of Cologne and a Master of Science in Population Studies from the University of Groningen.
Programme structure
The courses offered by the two universities offer a wide range of topics and complement each other very well. The double degree is integrated into the regular Master's programmes. It includes courses from both programmes and is based on credit transfer.
Get an idea of the content of the courses in the UoC module catalogue and the RUG course catalogue.
Part of the study programme involves writing a Master's thesis, which students will work on in their second year of studies.
Mode of study
- Less than 50% onlinePhase of attendance: yes, compulsoryPace of course: mixed (e.g. fixed exam dates and duration, study content can be studied at any time)
In cooperation with
University of Groningen, Netherlands
International elements in the curriculum
The curriculum of this study programme includes international elements that support global perspectives and cross-cultural learning:
- Language training provided
- Training in intercultural skills
- Projects with partners in Germany and abroad
- International guest lecturers
- Courses are led with foreign partners
- International comparisons and thematic reference to the international context
Application and admission
Application period(s)
Winter semester
| Applicants from | Applications begin | Application deadline | |
|---|---|---|---|
All countries
|
15 April 2027
|
15 May 2027
|
Academic admissions requirements
- Overall Bachelor's grade equivalent to at least 2.7 (German grading system)
- at least 18 ECTS in the fields of Sociology and/or Social Psychology
- at least 12 ECTS in the fields of Methods in Quantitative Social Sciences and/or Applied Quantitative Empirical Social Research and/or Statistics
Please find more information and a full list of requirements here.
Language requirements
German language requirements
English language requirements
Accepted certificates include
| Certificates | Minimum result |
|---|---|
TOEFL iBT (before 2026)
|
Total: 92 / 120
Reading: 24 / 30
Listening: 22 / 30
Writing: 24 / 30
Speaking: 25 / 30
|
IELTS Academic
|
Total: 6.5 / 9
|
Cambridge English Qualifications
|
Total: C1 Advanced
|
How to apply?
Costs and funding
Tuition fees per semester
No tuition fees
Semester contribution
The semester contribution amounts to approx. 320 EUR per semester. The fee includes a public transport ticket for regional transport throughout Germany ("Deutschlandsemesterticket").
Scholarships and financing information
Living & services
Support for international students
- Welcome event
- Buddy programme
- Tutors
- Specialist counselling
- Cultural and linguistic preparation
- Visa matters
- Help with finding accommodation
Career advisory services
Accommodation
Accommodation is available through the student union ("Kölner Studierendenwerk") or on the private housing market. Rent for a single room in a student hall of residence is approx. 200 EUR to 300 EUR. Rent for a single room on the private housing market is approx. 400 EUR to 600 EUR.