Interdisciplinary Studies on Eastern Europe | Interdisziplinäre Studien zum östlichen Europa (MA) (German Option) Justus Liebig University Giessen

The Giessen Centre for Eastern European Studies (GiZo) is the regional studies research and teaching centre for Eastern Europe at the Justus Liebig University of Giessen. 

By combining cultural and social science research on Eastern Europe, the centre provides an excellent basis for interdisciplinary research on the region. The GiZo offers an accredited, two-year, full-time Master's degree programme, the Interdisciplinary Studies on Eastern Europe Master of Arts. The programme is notable for its interdisciplinary and international nature as well as its emphasis on applied research.
The course of study is conducted in German, and it provides students with the professional competence and expertise to analyse, reflect upon, and evaluate social, political, legal, and cultural developments and relations in the Eastern European region (also Turkey and the Turkic-speaking regions of the former Soviet Union). The wide range of disciplines and courses offered allows for an individual curriculum and the opportunity to build a research-based as well as job-oriented profile.
The curriculum consists of one major subject (50 CP) and two minor elements (20 CP each). The programme concludes with a Master's thesis (30 CP) based on the student's major, but the thesis may also include additional interdisciplinary topics.

Students can choose from the following subjects:

• Majors: Slavic studies OR History of Eastern Europe
• Minors: Slavic studies, History of Eastern Europe, Sociology, Political science, Economics, Law, Turkic studies

The study programme includes 120 ECTS, which will be accumulated over the course of two academic years. There are five modules that have to be completed in the major subject, whereas the two minors consist of two modules each. All modules have to be completed during the first three semesters. The Master's thesis concludes the programme and is to be written in the fourth semester.
Module titles (selection): Interdisciplinary Module on Eastern Europe; Language Module; Slavic Languages & Cultures; Turkish: Politics, Society, and Language; Conflict & Cooperation in Europe; European Law: Institutional Principles & Eastern Enlargement

A complete overview of the programme's organisation can be found on the website of the JLU: 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.

The curriculum of the study programme does not explicitly require an internship, but it is highly recommended that students do internships. Additionally, required project work can be replaced by an internship in an Eastern European-related institution or enterprise in Germany or abroad.

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: German min. B2 for application // C1 for enrolment (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.

https://www.uni-giessen.de/de/ueber-uns/karriere/stellenangebote/studentische-hilfskraefte

https://www.uni-giessen.de/en/faculties/research-centers/zfbk/career_services/career_services_inhalt_en?set_language=en

http://jobboerse.asta-giessen.de/

• 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