Program Overview

Introduction to the Master's Programme

The Master's programme in Global Environmental Politics is designed for individuals interested in global environmental politics and the challenges of sustainability. This one-year programme explores how environmental issues are governed across borders, the influence of strategic interventions and institutional structures, and how international cooperation can drive sustainable change.

Programme Overview

The programme examines the transition to a fossil-free economy, the role of governments, companies, and civil society in solving complex environmental problems, and the balance between the needs of industrialised and developing countries. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical research skills, students will be well-prepared to tackle the pressing political challenges of our time.

Methodological Training

Students will refine their skills in both qualitative and quantitative methods, familiarising themselves with relevant research traditions and the latest developments in the field. They will work on case studies in small groups, apply research methods, formulate research questions, and collect and analyse data.

Independent Research

Students will conduct high-quality social scientific research, writing research papers, essays, and literature reviews, and practising public speaking. They will engage in class discussions and presentations and receive intensive coaching through tutorials and workshops.

Master's Thesis

In the final phase of the programme, students will design and carry out their own research project, culminating in a Master's thesis supervised by one of the internationally acclaimed lecturers.

Programme Structure

The comprehensive one-year Master's programme is designed to immerse students in the world of political science through six dynamic periods:

• Period 1 (September-October): Dive into the core debates of political science, familiarising yourself with key theories and big questions, and applying these insights to contemporary cases alongside your fellow students.
• Period 2 (November-December): Choose two from four specialist subjects and engage with key contemporary issues through ongoing scientific debates:
  • Contemporary Democratic Politics
  • Global Environmental Politics: Actors and Institutions
  • Global Political Economy and Geopolitics
  • International Security Studies
• Period 3 (January): Take a short course on the philosophy, design, and practice of political research, gaining the theoretical tools to prepare for your thesis, formulate hypotheses, and collect and analyse data in small groups.
• Period 4 (February-March): Practice conducting research within your specialisation through Workshop courses, refreshing and advancing your knowledge of qualitative and quantitative methods, and applying them to your chosen topic.
• Periods 5 & 6: Devote yourself entirely to your Master's thesis, supervised by the international team of researchers, designing and conducting your own research project, culminating in an original and well-researched thesis.

Career Prospects

A whole range of career paths is open to graduates, with analytical skills to think critically and grasp societal complexity, the capacity to conduct independent research and clearly communicate results to different audiences, and deep knowledge and understanding of various fields in international politics, governance, and decision-making. These competencies can be applied across diverse job activities.