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Master's programme

Double Master's Programme in Economics 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: C1
German: None

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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

English

Programme description

The Double Master's Programme in Economics gives you the opportunity to benefit from the expertise of two top universities. You will spend one year studying at each university and graduate with two Master's degrees: a Master of Science in Economics awarded by the University of Cologne and a Master of Arts in Economics awarded by Keio University in Tokyo, Japan.

Economics focuses on how governments, companies, institutions, households and individuals allocate their limited resources. The study programme provides you with broad methodological expertise and knowledge of a variety of theoretical approaches. You will learn to independently analyse and develop conceptual models to predict responses to changes in policy and market conditions. The international orientation of the Double Master's Programme enables you to learn how to solve complex economic problems in a globalised, interconnected world by considering cross-national connections and effects.

Programme structure

The Double Master's Programme in Economics gives students the opportunity to pursue two Master's degrees from two universities during a two-year programme. The programme is integrated into the Master of Science in Economics at the University of Cologne (UoC) and the Master of Arts in Economics at Keio University and incorporates courses from both. It is based on recognition of credit points and includes a Master's thesis, which is written during the second year of study. Students spend their first year at the University of Cologne and their second year at Keio University. After successful completion of the programme, they are awarded two degrees: a Master of Science in Economics by the University of Cologne and a Master of Arts in Economics by Keio University.

The courses available at the two universities complement each other very well, providing a wide range from which students benefit greatly. During the first year at UoC, students acquire methodological expertise in mathematics, econometrics, and micro and macroeconomics. Students can then specialise in a field of their choice and practise applying their methodological skills.

Mode of study

  • Less than 50% online
    Phase of attendance: yes, compulsory
    Pace of course: mixed (e.g. fixed exam dates and duration, study content can be studied at any time)

In cooperation with

Keio University in Tokyo, Japan

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
  • Specialist literature in other languages
  • 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
Information on application periods

Academic admissions requirements

Overall grade equivalent to at least 2.7 (German grading system) in the Bachelor's degree

and EITHER

  • at least 30 ECTS in the field of Economics
  • at least 15 ECTS in the fields of Statistics and/or Mathematics (only modules with mathematical and/or statistical methodological skills; pure (software) application skills are not accepted)

OR

  • at least 40 ECTS in the field of Mathematics

Please find more information and a full list of requirements here.

Language requirements

Please check all requirements directly with the respective higher education institution.

German language requirements

German: None

English language requirements

English: C1

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?

Website

Please check this website.

Click here

Costs and funding

Tuition fees per semester

No tuition fees

Semester contribution

The semester contribution amounts to approx. 320 EUR per semester. This fee includes a public transport ticket for regional transport throughout Germany ("Deutschlandsemesterticket"). Students are exempted from paying tuition fees at Keio University during their second year.

Scholarships and financing information

Living & services

Support for international students

  • Buddy programme
  • Tutors
  • Specialist counselling

WiSo Student Services

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.

Contact

Main contact

Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences

Address
50931 Köln

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Always know what comes next

Study Guide gives you a personal to-do list tailored to your background, qualifications and interests, so you always know what to do next.