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Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen
Master German Social Sciences

Demokratie und GovernanceDemocracy and Governance

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen Gießen · Hesse Location: Giessen

About the Program

The Master's program in Democracy and Governance is a consecutive study program that builds on relevant social science-oriented bachelor's degrees. Democracy and democratic governance form the central thematic leitmotif of political science. The program focuses on how democratic principles can be realized against the background of cross-border problems and new, often informal governance structures. It is the only Master's program in Germany that centers on the connections between democracy and governance. The program examines the ambivalent situation at the beginning of the 21st century, where many states have submitted to the principle of democratic legitimacy, while simultaneously observing erosion processes in established democracies and the failure of sustainable democratization in young democracies. The program consists of core modules in Democracy, Democratization Processes, and Methods in the first semesters, followed by specialized political science modules in the 2nd-3rd semesters. The fourth semester is dedicated to the Master's thesis. Two elective modules offer the opportunity to attend courses in related disciplines such as history, economics, and philosophy.
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The Master's program in Democracy and Governance is a consecutive study program that builds on relevant social science-oriented bachelor's degrees. Democracy and democratic governance form the central thematic leitmotif of political science. The program focuses on how democratic principles can be realized against the background of cross-border problems and new, often informal governance structures. It is the only Master's program in Germany that centers on the connections between democracy and governance. The program examines the ambivalent situation at the beginning of the 21st century, where many states have submitted to the principle of democratic legitimacy, while simultaneously observing erosion processes in established democracies and the failure of sustainable democratization in young democracies. The program consists of core modules in Democracy, Democratization Processes, and Methods in the first semesters, followed by specialized political science modules in the 2nd-3rd semesters. The fourth semester is dedicated to the Master's thesis. Two elective modules offer the opportunity to attend courses in related disciplines such as history, economics, and philosophy.

Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?

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

See Social Sciences professions "International Relations" "Political Science" "Democracy Research" "Governance Research"
Explore all professions →

Subjects / Topic Areas

International Relations Political Science Democracy Research Governance Research

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How do I apply to Demokratie und Governance at Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen?

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 Demokratie und Governance at Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen

Is Demokratie und Governance at Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen 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 Demokratie und Governance 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 Demokratie und Governance at Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen? ▼

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 Demokratie und Governance? ▼

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 Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen — 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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