The Institute of Political Science at the University Duisburg-Essen (UDE) is the largest educational and research institution for political science in the federal state of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) and enjoys high standing within the German political science community. Students benefit from a wide range of associated research centers and programs, such as the Institute for Development and Peace (INEF) and the NRW School of Governance.

The Institutes offers a broad selection of study programs: a BA in Political Science, several specialized Masters in German and English language, as well as the opportunity to acquire a doctoral degree (Ph.D. equivalent). The BA Political Science program provides a general introduction to the discipline and qualifies for any MA program in social sciences. Close cooperation with the Institute of Sociology and the Institute of East Asian Studies (IN-EAST) opens opportunities for interdisciplinary orientation.

MA programs correspond to the Institute’s research focus – including an MA in International Relations and Development Policy, an MA in Policy Management, Public Policy and Public Administration as well as an MA in Theory and Comparative Studies of Political Systems in Transition. All three programs are two year full time study programs. Most courses are taught in German but a few are also offered in English language. In addition, the institute offers an English-language MA degree program Development and Governance with one-year duration – building on elements of the other MA programs.

All study programs promote internships in national or international political, administrative or other organizations. In order to support students in their related activities, the Institute offers extensive counseling and mentoring. Students are encouraged to spend study time abroad. The Institute is affiliated with a wide range of European universities through the European Erasmus Program – providing students with easy access to universities and study programs across the continent. The Institute in turn welcomes guest students from partner universities with a number of support offerings. Non-German-speaking guest students are closely assisted in assembling individual study programs in English.