Information about the
Application Process
Admission Requirements
The required entrance qualification for the Master of Peace and Conflict Studies is a Bachelor or equivalent university degree with sufficient knowledge of methods in empirical social science research as well as in English and German. Applicants need to have sufficient knowledge of German, because the courses are largely held in German. For those that do not have sufficient experience in methods of social research, there may be exceptions made on the condition that the student takes appropriate research methods courses.
Language Requirements
To live up to our admission criteria with regard to German language skills, you must have either a DSH II certificate or a TESTDAF certificate level TDN4. Another alternative would be a certificate from a Goethe Institute documenting that you have passed the "Zentrale Oberstufenprüfung (ZOP)".It may also be possible to apply for the M.A. program and then take the DSH test in Marburg before the semester starts (usually in September). This means, however, that you must be confident enough in your German language skills. Should you fail this DSH test, you will have the option to take German courses for a maximum of two semesters, after which time you must be able to pass the test in order to enter the M.A. program. More information about the language requirements and language courses at our university can be found here (in German).
Application process
If you want to apply for the M.A. program, you have to do so via UNI-ASSIST.
This tool assists students and ensures that all applications are correct and complete. Please do NOT send your application directly to the Center for Peace and Conflict Studies (CCS).
Using these application forms we will choose suited applicants personally. For more information about the selection criteria please click here (in German).Application Deadline
Frequently asked questions about the application process
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What sort of undergraduate program is a prerequisite for applying for the Master’s program? Can I apply without a degree in the social sciences?
A completed BA programme or equivalent is the prerequisite for applying.
Our current students have graduated in a broad variety of degree programmes and we appreciate the diversity of background knowledge and research experience. Thus, the chances of being accepted are for historians just as good as for political and cultural scientists, psychologists, regional scientists, or geographers.
It is advantageous, however, if you have already dealt with issues of peace and conflict studies and international relations, whether in the context of seminars, lectures, or your B.A. thesis.
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I have little or no experience with methods of empirical social science? Can I still apply?
Applicants should be knowledgeable about methods of empirical social science research, but this is not absolutely required. Students lacking necessary research skills may be obliged, however, to attend additional seminars during the first two semesters of their M.A. studies.
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What are the criteria for selecting prospective M.A. students?
Students are selected on the basis on a number of criteria, including international and practical experience, extracurricular social, political, cultural or ecological involvement, individual motivation, knowledge of foreign languages, and major fields of study.
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What is the total amount of study fees?
At the University of Marburg there are no tuition fees, but each student is required to pay approximately €250 per semester to the students union to cover administration costs and a ticket for public transportation on trains and buses in Marburg and the surrounding region.
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Does your department/university offer any scholarships for international students?
We are sorry that we have no possibilities for funding students. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) , however, offers funding opportunities for international students.
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Do the application documents (transcript of records, university entrance diploma) have to be translated into German? Can I use copies of my English originals?
It is sufficient to send us English documents.
