Double Master's Programme in European Studies – 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: B2German: 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 in European Studies gives you the opportunity to benefit from the expertise of two top-ranking universities. You will spend one year studying at each university and graduate with two Master's degrees: a Master of Science (MSc) in European Studies (Research) from Maastricht University and a Master of Science (MSc) in Political Science from the University of Cologne.
The international Master's programme is an ambitious, research-based and interdisciplinary programme. You will develop an in-depth understanding of the institutions of the European Union and the challenges of politics and policies in an integrated Europe. The programme aims to teach you to apply quantitative and qualitative method skills, enabling you to operate on an advanced level in an international research environment.
Programme structure
The programme is integrated into the Master of Science (MSc) in European Studies (Research) from Maastricht University and the Master of Science (MSc) in Political Science from the University of Cologne, and it 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.
The courses available at the two universities complement each other very well, providing a wide range from which you can benefit. You can choose between different specialisations and course options, depending on your personal interest. Please consult the Maastricht course catalogue and the University of Cologne course catalogue to get an impression of the content of the courses. Please note that there can be minor changes in the course catalogues in the upcoming semesters.
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
Maastricht University, 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
- A Bachelor's degree with at least 36 ECTS credits in Political Science and at least 9 ECTS credits in the field of Methods in Social Sciences
- Overall grade equivalent to at least 2.7 (German grading system) in the Bachelor's degree
Please find more information and full list of requirements here.
Language requirements
German language requirements
English language requirements
Accepted certificates include
| Certificates | Minimum result |
|---|---|
TOEFL iBT (before 2026)
|
Total: 72 / 120
Reading: 18 / 30
Listening: 17 / 30
Writing: 17 / 30
Speaking: 20 / 30
|
IELTS Academic
|
Total: 5.5 / 9
|
Cambridge English Qualifications
|
Total: B2 First
|
How to apply?
Costs and funding
Tuition fees per semester
No tuition fees
Semester contribution
At the University of Cologne, 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.