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Universität Leipzig
Master English Social Sciences

Joint International Master's Programme in Sustainable Development

Master

Universität Leipzig Leipzig · Saxony

About the Program

The aim of the Joint International Master’s Programme in Sustainable Development is to offer an international and interdisciplinary Master’s programme of the highest quality, enabling participants to make substantial contributions to the challenge of societal transition towards sustainability. It places a strong emphasis on research as well as on intervention strategies, promotes the capability for scientific work, and, in particular, a methodologically sound approach to problem-solving, especially in inter- and transdisciplinary settings. Students who complete the programme will be able to: understand the dynamics, complexity and interaction between natural, social and economic processes and systems with regard to sustainable development identify and analyse so-called "wicked problems" within the field of sustainable development by taking into consideration different disciplinary perspectives develop comprehensive competences from a scientific perspective know and apply adequate methods and instruments for scientific research apply their knowledge and scientific skills in inter- and transdisciplinary teams to address complex issues possess the necessary social skills, such as writing, debating, conflict management, teamwork and project management to make a substantial contribution to change within society conduct independent scientific research and present the results in scientific publications The Master’s programme prepares students for a PhD, ultimately leading to positions in scientific research.  The societal orientation of the Master’s programme also makes it a good starting point for positions that do not directly involve scientific research. Graduates might find employment in the private sector, the public sector (EU, national, regional and local government), consultancy firms and NGOs. Over the course of their careers, graduates should be able to fill managerial positions—notably in the integration of knowledge and policy, and in the field of change management (particularly in relation to complex processes of societal change).
▶ Show the original English text
The aim of the Joint International Master’s Programme in Sustainable Development is to offer an international and interdisciplinary Master’s programme of the highest quality, enabling participants to make substantial contributions to the challenge of societal transition towards sustainability. It places a strong emphasis on research as well as on intervention strategies, promotes the capability for scientific work, and, in particular, a methodologically sound approach to problem-solving, especially in inter- and transdisciplinary settings. Students who complete the programme will be able to: understand the dynamics, complexity and interaction between natural, social and economic processes and systems with regard to sustainable development identify and analyse so-called "wicked problems" within the field of sustainable development by taking into consideration different disciplinary perspectives develop comprehensive competences from a scientific perspective know and apply adequate methods and instruments for scientific research apply their knowledge and scientific skills in inter- and transdisciplinary teams to address complex issues possess the necessary social skills, such as writing, debating, conflict management, teamwork and project management to make a substantial contribution to change within society conduct independent scientific research and present the results in scientific publications The Master’s programme prepares students for a PhD, ultimately leading to positions in scientific research.  The societal orientation of the Master’s programme also makes it a good starting point for positions that do not directly involve scientific research. Graduates might find employment in the private sector, the public sector (EU, national, regional and local government), consultancy firms and NGOs. Over the course of their careers, graduates should be able to fill managerial positions—notably in the integration of knowledge and policy, and in the field of change management (particularly in relation to complex processes of societal change).

Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?

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

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Subjects / Topic Areas

Political Science

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How do I apply to Joint International Master's Programme in Sustainable Development at Universität Leipzig?

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 Joint International Master's Programme in Sustainable Development at Universität Leipzig

Is Joint International Master's Programme in Sustainable Development at Universität Leipzig taught in German or English? ▼

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

How much does the Joint International Master's Programme in Sustainable Development programme cost? ▼

840 EUR / semester. International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for Joint International Master's Programme in Sustainable Development at Universität Leipzig? ▼

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (English), 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 Joint International Master's Programme in Sustainable Development? ▼

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 Universität Leipzig — 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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