Global Sustainability Economics Ruhr-Universität Bochum
- Duration
- 4 semesters
- Language of instruction
- English
- Tuition fees
- No tuition fees
- Next application deadline
- 15 January 2027 (summer semester)
- Language level required
- English: B2German: None
Programme overview
Quick facts
- Degree
- MSc
- Duration
- 4 semesters
- Full-time / part-time
- Full-time
- Intake
- Winter and summer semester
- Joint degree / double degree programme
- No
- A Diploma supplement will be issued
- Yes
- Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
- No
Language of instruction
All economics courses (compulsory and elective subjects) and most non-economics elective courses are taught in English; you only need German language skills for a few elective courses in other subjects (faculties) if you wish to take them.
Programme description
Are you passionate about tackling the world’s most pressing challenges through economic expertise? The new Master of Science programme in Global Sustainability Economics at Ruhr University Bochum offers you the unique opportunity to explore complex global sustainability issues from an economic perspective. Entirely taught in English, this four-semester programme is designed for students with a background in economics, business or related fields, and combines economic theory, empirical methods, and intercultural competence training to prepare you for leadership roles in the global transformation toward sustainable development.
Throughout the programme, you will gain in-depth knowledge of core economic issues and methods (micro- and macroeconomics, econometrics), environmental and inequality economics, the political economy of global sustainability, and have a large choice of courses in global and sustainability economics. A particular highlight is the Project Seminar Global Sustainability, where you will apply your skills to real-world challenges and develop practical, just, and sustainable policy recommendations. You can further enrich your studies with an optional semester abroad at one of our international partner universities and benefit from a vibrant international community through summer schools and guest lectures from leading global experts.
Graduates of Global Sustainability Economics will be ideally equipped for careers in international organisations, government agencies, research institutions, and globally operating companies. With sustainability becoming a core focus in politics, business, and society, your expertise will be in high demand. Join us in shaping a more just and sustainable future — study where innovative economic thinking meets global responsibility!
Mode of study
- Fully on-site
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
- International guest lecturers
- Integrated/optional study abroad unit(s)
We have large network of partner universities, in Europe and beyond, and we encourage students to study one semester abroad.
- 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
|
1 June 2027
|
15 July 2027
|
Summer semester
| Applicants from | Applications begin | Application deadline | |
|---|---|---|---|
All countries
|
1 December 2026
|
15 January 2027
|
Academic admissions requirements
- 15 CP in mathematics and/or statistics
- 40 CP in economics or: 20 CP in economics and 20 CP in a related field with economic context
- English: CEFR level B2
Note that if you do not fulfil all of these requirements, i.e. you are missing 5 or 10 credit points, you can still apply. If you are admitted to the programme, you should then complete the missing credit points in the first semester.
Language requirements
German language requirements
English language requirements
Accepted certificates include
| Certificates | Minimum result |
|---|---|
IELTS Academic
|
Total: 6.5 / 9
|
How to apply?
Costs and funding
Tuition fees per semester
No tuition fees
Semester contribution
Students have to pay a social contribution fee of approx. 380 EUR per semester, including a semester ticket covering public transport in Germany (https://studium.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/re-registration-and-social-contribution).
Scholarships and financing information
Students with good academic achievements and a high degree of social responsibility can apply for the “Deutschlandstipendium” grant. They will receive a one-year scholarship of 300 EUR per month from the Ruhr-Universität Scholarship Fund: http://www.rub.de/bildungsfonds/info-studierende/en/index_en.html.
International students can also apply at the International Office, e.g. for financial support during their final phase of study, such as graduation grants: https://international.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/en/scholarships?_wrapper_format=html.
Living & services
Support for international students
- Welcome event
- Specialist counselling
- Cultural and linguistic preparation
- Support with registration procedures
The International Office supports students right from the start:
- International Welcome programme with online sessions prior to students’ arrival and a series of welcome events to facilitate students’ integration into their new environment
- For those enrolled in English-taught Master’s programmes, a specialised onboarding programme is available, which includes a German language course.
- Info sessions throughout the semester on administrative matters
- Regular office hours for individual consultation
- A variety of events to engage international students and enrich their academic experience
You can find more information here.
Support for specific needs
Studying with a disability
Compensation for disadvantages is always decided on a case-by-case basis, after considerations of which measures can best compensate for the specific disadvantages.
Studying with a family
As a family-friendly university, Ruhr University Bochum is committed to supporting the balance between family life and academic career. It does so by supporting student parents with a range of services embedded in a family-friendly campus infrastructure, including childcare centres, nursing and baby-changing facilities, parent networks, and options for organising their studies in a way that accommodates their family responsibilities.
Course-specific language courses available
- English
- German
Career advisory services
The Career Service for International Students was established to support international students as they move from their studies into the German job market.
- Events & Workshops: From networking events to web seminars, learn the best tips from career experts and get to know start-ups from the region.
- Digital Career Guide: The Moodle course “Career Service for International Students” prepares you for starting a job in Germany.
- FIT4Job — Mentoring for Internationals: RUB alumni share their professional expertise and good practices with you one-on-one.
- Counselling services: Identify your talents and career goals in a personal counselling session. Our RUB Career Service team provides support in preparing application documents and interviews.