Master of Arts in Sustainability and Postcolonial Studies
Explore critical sustainability through postcolonial, gender, and historical lenses in this interdisciplinary master’s programme.
Best for:Best for graduates in social sciences, humanities, or sustainability with strong English proficiency (C1) seeking an interdisciplinary, critical approach to sustainability studies.
Overview
This two-year Master of Arts programme at the University of Kassel integrates sustainability studies with postcolonial perspectives, gender analysis, and historical inquiry. Students critically examine global sustainability concepts, their historical roots, and their implementation, while engaging with diverse voices from the Global South. The curriculum combines theoretical modules with hands-on research projects, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and practical skills for sustainability strategy development. Graduates emerge with expertise in evaluating sustainability practices from social science, historical, and postcolonial frameworks, preparing them for careers in international organisations, research, and policy-making. The programme emphasises dialogue-based learning and small-group discussions to cultivate constructive debate and innovative problem-solving.
What you'll do
- Develop a critical understanding of sustainability concepts and their historical, social, and postcolonial dimensions through interdisciplinary coursework.
- Engage in independent and collaborative research projects, applying qualitative and quantitative research methods to sustainability-related topics.
- Write a Master’s thesis under faculty supervision, synthesising theoretical insights and empirical findings on a chosen sustainability issue.
- Participate in small-group discussions and workshops to refine analytical skills and constructively critique sustainability strategies.
- Explore global perspectives on sustainability by integrating international guest lectures and optional study-abroad opportunities.
- Develop practical skills for consulting, policy-making, and strategy development in sustainability-focused organisations.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in sustainability studies, social sciences, cultural studies, humanities, or a first state examination for teaching history or politics/economics with at least 180 ECTS credits (6 semesters minimum).
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: English; C1 level (CEFR) with official proof (e.g., TOEFL iBT 5 in all sections, IELTS Academic 7, or equivalent).
Instruction: English (100% of courses)
- Proficient academic writing and research skills in English (C1 level).
- Ability to critically analyse complex theoretical frameworks in sustainability and postcolonial studies.
- Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research methods (developed during the programme).
- Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills for interdisciplinary teamwork.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in relevant fields with minimum 180 ECTS credits.
- English proficiency at C1 level (CEFR) for non-native speakers.
- No German language requirement.
- Open to international applicants (no nationality restrictions).
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2024-07-15 (for winter semester, foreign certificates)
Applicants must submit their documents via the official uni-assist portal. Required materials include a completed application form, Bachelor’s degree certificate, transcripts, proof of English proficiency (C1), a CV, and a letter of motivation. Additional documents may be requested by the examination board. The application period for the winter semester with foreign certificates runs from March 1 to July 15.
- Completed application form
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts (official translations if not in English/German)
- Proof of English proficiency (C1 level, e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letter of motivation
- Passport-sized photograph
- Proof of health insurance coverage
Contact
International Office· Admissions Coordinator
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