Master of Peace Research and International Relations (MA)

After successful completion of this Master's programme, students will be able to analyse complex problems of conflict, war and peace as well as of international relations broadly speaking. They will have acquired essential knowledge of essential theories and methods in this field, as well as the core empirical issues and their contexts. They will be able to apply this knowledge in the identification and analysis of novel problems of international politics, to independently develop theoretical ideas, and to critically evaluate policies addressing conflicts and other transnational issues. The curriculum builds on a strong theoretical-methodological orientation towards research-based learning, characterised by the application of theoretical knowledge to current case studies as well as the development of epistemological judgement and the practice of methodological skills. To this end, the four basic modules teach the theoretical and methodological foundations of the discipline. These modules are as follows: (1) Theoretical and Methodological Perspectives, (2) Normative and Critical Perspectives, (3) Global Governance and (4) Analysing Armed Conflicts. In the elective area, students are free to pursue their own areas of specialisation and study interests. There are numerous opportunities for in-depth study, ranging from courses on international law to peace education. In addition, four regularly offered excursions in particular provide the option of underpinning theoretical knowledge with practical experience. For this purpose, students can take part in (1) National Model United Nations, (2) Peace Boat, (3) European Security Institutions and (4) Mediation and Negotiation. (The excursions must be [co-]financed by the students.) The module handbook can be accessed on the website of the programme. It contains further information on the compulsory modules, as well as an overview and details of the elective modules offered. The standard duration of the programme is four semesters or two years, with a total of 120 ECTS. Of these, 81 ECTS are acquired in the compulsory modules and the final exam module, and 39 ECTS in elective modules. It is recommended to attend the compulsory courses during the first and second semester, as they cover thematic and methodological basics. First elective courses can be added in the second semester and completed in the third semester. The third semester is also well suited for a semester abroad. The fourth semester is reserved for the compulsory final module, which includes the Master's thesis, a colloquium on it and the final oral examination. This study plan is recommended in order to be able to complete the programme within the standard period of study, but it is not obligatory, so that courses can be taken in other semesters according to one's own interests and needs. Most courses are offered in the form of seminars, only three of the basic modules include lectures. Seminars and study trips provide ample opportunity to develop a student’s own interests and skills in relation to specific conflicts, policy areas, theories and/or methods. Students also acquire a range of transferable skills through diverse teaching and assessment methods, including but not limited to the following: role play, simulations, scenario writing, and study trips in addition to more conventional methods such as essay writing, class presentations and discussions. These methods allow students to further develop their skills in presenting academic debates and enhancing professional attitudes. In addition, students acquire skills in teamwork, intercultural communication and the (self-)organisation of groups. PDF Download