Social Work Research Leuphana University Lüneburg

The Master’s programme in Social Work Research focuses on developing research-based and analytical competencies for work in academia and research institutions. Students gain a deep understanding of the theoretical foundations, empirical methods, and ethical principles that shape modern social work research.

The curriculum combines project-based learning with a strong emphasis on empirical research design, data collection and analysis, and theoretical reflection. Throughout the programme, students work in small research groups, engage in interdisciplinary discussions, and participate in ongoing research projects within the university or partner institutions.

Key areas of study include:

• Theories and methods of social work research
• Quantitative and qualitative empirical research
• Research ethics and academic integrity
• Project management and teamwork in research settings
• Academic writing, presentation, and publication skills
• Preparation for teaching and self-administration in academia

Students benefit from close supervision and a collaborative learning environment. Those interested in pursuing a PhD may opt for the Doctoral Track, which allows them to start their doctoral studies while completing the Master’s degree.

The Master’s programme in Social Work Research is structured to gradually introduce students to academic research in social work through a systematic, step-by-step approach. The curriculum combines theory, empirical research, and practical academic experience across four semesters.

• First semester: Students begin with the Master’s Forum, where they learn to critically review and evaluate current research in the field. The semester also includes comprehensive training in both qualitative and quantitative research methods as well as participation in a collaborative research project on a socially relevant topic. Working together with partners from the field, students conduct real-world research that generates practical and socially meaningful outcomes.
• Second semester: The focus shifts to academic practice. Students complete a university-based research internship, gaining insight into the daily work of academic institutions. A complementary module on research ethics and academic reflection deepens their understanding of responsible research and academic integrity.
• Third semester: Students are introduced to university teaching in social work and apply their methodological knowledge to the analysis of current discourses, practices, and diagnoses in social work studies. A dedicated module on science communication equips them with the skills to present research findings effectively and highlight their social relevance.
• Fourth semester: The final semester is dedicated to independent research and writing of the Master’s thesis, allowing students to demonstrate their ability to plan, conduct, and present a substantial academic research project.

In the second semester, students begin an academic internship at a university.

Academic admission requirements can be found on the Admission & Requirements website of the programme.

You do not have to pay tuition fees. You only have to pay a semester contribution of approx. 450 EUR per semester (subject to change). This will entitle you to receive a semester ticket, which covers public transport in Germany. The semester contribution also covers participation in a rent-a-bike programme and free entrance to many cultural events in Lüneburg.

Approx. 900 EUR per month to cover personal expenses in Lüneburg:

• Accommodation: 350 to 500 EUR
• Food: 250 EUR
• Health insurance: 120 EUR (not applicable for EU students)
• Leisure activities, books, clothing: 80 to 250 EUR

Students have the opportunity to take up part-time employment alongside their studies. Positions may be available in the city of Lüneburg, within the university itself, for example as student or research assistants, as well as in the nearby city of Hamburg, which offers a wide range of job opportunities in various sectors.

International students with a residence permit are allowed to undertake a limited amount of paid employment (a maximum of 120 days per year, or alternatively 240 days part time — up to four hours a day).

However, please note that Graduate School's Master’s programmes are designed as a full-time courses of study.

Leuphana's own Career Service offers comprehensive services in various fields of activity involving career and vocational orientation linked to programmes of study as well as the possibility to network with the labour market.

More information can be found on the website of Leuphana's Career Service.

Student Counselling Service of the Graduate School

Websites and relevant addresses for finding accommodation in Lüneburg are listed on the website of the International Center.

Leuphana University Lüneburg is one of Germany's landmark universities for higher education reform and innovation. With about 10,000 students and 160 full-time professors, the university has developed a highly respected academic profile. Today, Leuphana University Lüneburg is regarded as an institution for interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research, academic organisation, innovation in teaching, and academic transfer.

The mission of Leuphana University Lüneburg derives from the fundamental idea of academic education as enabling an individual to live in a self-determined manner and take part in shaping society. A university for civil society in the 21st century, Leuphana follows the mission of being a humanistic, sustainable, and proactive university.

Leuphana University Lüneburg consists of three organisational units focusing on the needs of different academic constituencies: Leuphana College, which offers specialised and interdisciplinary Bachelor's programmes; Leuphana Graduate School, with its consecutive Master's and doctoral programmes; and Leuphana Professional School, focusing on continuing education and knowledge transfer.

The Leuphana Graduate School encompasses both the Master's and the doctoral programmes of all faculties. Thus, students benefit from a seamless transition between Master's and doctoral programmes as well as from close interaction with students from other programmes and faculties. The model of a discipline-independent graduate school also ensures consistently high-quality standards in study, teaching, and administration.

Lüneburg is a 1,000-year-old city of about 80,000 inhabitants, located near Hamburg. Established as a salt mining community, it enjoyed great prosperity in its early years, supplying the whole Scandinavian and Baltic Sea regions with salt. Renowned for its opportunities and affluence, Lüneburg was the place to be for Germany's most wealthy inhabitants, a legacy still evident in the well-preserved city centre.

Today, Lüneburg is essentially a university town. The lavish 14th and 15th-century churches — St. John's, St. Michael's, and St. Nicolai's — the beautiful Baroque main square, and the tranquil medieval monastery attract visitors from all over the world.

The pedestrian city centre invites visitors to linger; a great number of well-assorted specialist shops in historic buildings featuring steep gables provide extensive shopping opportunities, and many cafés and pubs open their doors to visitors every day. In particular, the bars situated at the Stint and in Schröderstraße offer various options for a vibrant nightlife. Lüneburg is also a vibrant cultural hub; numerous musicians, artists, and actors are active in the clubs, studios, and theatres of the town.