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Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz
Master German Social Sciences

Criminology

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz Mainz · Rhineland-Palatinate

About the Program

The Master's program in Criminology focuses on the study, analysis, and control of crime. Students intensively examine the causes, manifestations, and consequences of criminal acts, as well as how criminal prosecution and prevention can be designed and which societal and individual responses are effective. The program takes an interdisciplinary approach connecting criminology with law, psychology, forensic psychiatry, and sociology to provide a comprehensive understanding of criminological contexts. A central component is Forensic Criminology, which involves the case-by-case application of criminological knowledge within judicial and administrative practice. Students also engage with current criminal policy challenges and benefit from direct exchange with experts from correctional facilities, youth welfare services, drug counseling, and forensic institutions through scientific discussions, practical projects, excursions, and lectures. The program combines theory and practice to develop a well-founded understanding of criminological and forensic methods and the significance of empirical research results at both societal and individual levels.
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The Master's program in Criminology focuses on the study, analysis, and control of crime. Students intensively examine the causes, manifestations, and consequences of criminal acts, as well as how criminal prosecution and prevention can be designed and which societal and individual responses are effective. The program takes an interdisciplinary approach connecting criminology with law, psychology, forensic psychiatry, and sociology to provide a comprehensive understanding of criminological contexts. A central component is Forensic Criminology, which involves the case-by-case application of criminological knowledge within judicial and administrative practice. Students also engage with current criminal policy challenges and benefit from direct exchange with experts from correctional facilities, youth welfare services, drug counseling, and forensic institutions through scientific discussions, practical projects, excursions, and lectures. The program combines theory and practice to develop a well-founded understanding of criminological and forensic methods and the significance of empirical research results at both societal and individual levels.

Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?

Related profession searches from Bundesagentur für Arbeit (BERUFENET) data:

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Subjects / Topic Areas

Criminology

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How do I apply to Criminology at Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz?

Most international applicants apply via uni-assist (document verification + APS for some countries). Prepare your secondary/Bachelor diploma, transcripts, language certificate (DSH/TestDaF or IELTS/TOEFL), motivation letter and CV. Non-EU students also need a Sperrkonto (~11,904 EUR/year) for the visa.

  1. Check requirements — Verify your degree is recognised + meet language/grade thresholds.
  2. Get language certificate — TestDaF / DSH for German programmes, IELTS / TOEFL for English.
  3. Submit via uni-assist (non-EU) — Document review + APS if your country requires it (China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, etc.).
  4. Apply directly or via uni portal — Some universities accept direct applications — check the official programme page.
  5. Open Sperrkonto + apply for visa — After admission, deposit 11,904 EUR, get health insurance, book embassy appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Criminology at Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz

Is Criminology at Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz taught in German or English? ▼

This Master programme is taught in German. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.

How much does the Criminology programme cost? ▼

No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for Criminology at Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz? ▼

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (German), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).

When is the application deadline? ▼

Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.

Can I work in Germany while studying Criminology? ▼

Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.

How do I apply to Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz — directly or via uni-assist? ▼

Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.

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