Program Overview

Introduction to the Master's Program in European Politics (MAEP) at the University of Bremen ## MAEP Overview The Master's program in European Politics (MAEP) at the University of Bremen is a research-oriented program designed to equip students with the competencies and knowledge necessary for analyzing political issues and contents within the European Union and its member states. The program aims to qualify students for both academic research in European politics and professional positions in fields related to European policy. ### Program Structure The MAEP is divided into three main areas: the compulsory area, which is binding for all students, the elective area, and General Studies, which offer opportunities for specialization and in-depth study. - 1st Semester: Students acquire in-depth knowledge and competencies in essential political and social science methods, with a choice between qualitative and quantitative methods, and in theories and approaches to European studies. An excursion to Brussels is part of the module MAEP-M1. - 2nd Semester: Students deepen their theoretical and empirical knowledge in European research through seminars in the compulsory modules MAEP-M3 and MAEP-M4, covering the EU's political system and politics in member states. - 3rd Semester: A compulsory seminar on Research Design (MAPW-M7) is attended. Students can choose between a research internship (MAEP-M6) or a semester abroad (MAEP-M5). - 4th Semester: Students work on their master's thesis and participate in an accompanying seminar (MAEP-M8). Additionally, students complete 12 CP in the General Studies area, which can be taken flexibly throughout the program. ## Admission Requirements The MAEP is aimed at students of social science disciplines who have completed at least 40 CP in political science during their bachelor's studies. The application deadline for the winter semester is June 15th. A C1 level in German and a B2 level in English according to the Common European Framework (CEF) are required for admission. Further information on admission requirements can be found in the Admission Ordinance. ## General Studies In the General Studies area, students attend additional single courses or modules from faculties 6-12 or the General Studies pool of the University of Bremen, totaling 12 CP. This includes seminars from the BA and MA in Political Science, BA in Integrated European Studies, and other political science master's programs. The results are documented through performance records ("Scheine"), which must be submitted to the Central Examination Office. Benoted and unbenoted Scheine can be submitted, with benoted Scheine always being included in the master's grade. ## Practical Training and Semester Abroad In the 3rd semester, MAEP students complete either a three-month research internship or a semester abroad. The internship must be registered in advance and, upon completion, the results are presented either in a presentation in the accompanying colloquium or, exceptionally, in a practice report. For the internship module MAEP-M6, students receive 18 CP. The semester abroad can be completed at one of the numerous partner universities of the Institute for European Studies or Faculty 08. The application deadline is February 15th. ## Career Prospects The MAEP aims to qualify graduates for positions in social science research and for the non-academic job market. Graduates are attractive candidates for interest groups, civil society organizations, ministries, parliaments, political parties, administrations, and companies at local, regional, national, and European levels. ## Conclusion The Master's program in European Politics at the University of Bremen offers a comprehensive and research-oriented education in European politics, preparing students for both academic and professional careers in this field. With its strong focus on methodological pluralism and its integration into the university's research landscape, the MAEP provides a unique profile that distinguishes its graduates in the academic and professional world.