MSc Sociology – Social and Economic Psychology
Interdisciplinary master’s programme blending sociology, psychology, and business administration in a small-group, research-intensive environment.
Best for:Best for students with a background in psychology, social sciences, or related fields who seek to specialise in economic and social psychology with hands-on research experience in a small, interdisciplinary cohort.
Overview
The Master of Science in Sociology – Social and Economic Psychology at the University of Cologne offers a unique interdisciplinary curriculum combining sociology, psychology, and business administration. Taught entirely in English, this programme is designed for students seeking to specialise in economic and social psychology while gaining practical research experience. With a maximum of 25 students per cohort, it fosters close collaboration with internationally renowned faculty from the Institute of Sociology and Social Psychology (ISS), ranked Germany’s top sociology department. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with applied modules, including psychometric methods, strategic interactions, and consumer behaviour, while also offering elective courses in business, economics, and other social sciences. Graduates emerge with advanced analytical skills and a strong foundation for careers in academia, research, or industry.
What you'll do
- Develop advanced expertise in economic and social psychology through interdisciplinary coursework combining sociology, psychology, and business administration.
- Gain practical research experience by participating in a research seminar, one of the programme’s highlights.
- Apply sociological and psychological theories to analyse contemporary societies and social phenomena through cross-sectional data analysis.
- Choose elective modules from business administration, economics, and other social sciences to tailor your profile for career readiness.
- Complete a Master’s thesis applying acquired knowledge and skills to a research project of your choice.
- Engage in small-group discussions and collaborative projects with faculty and peers in a limited-cohort setting.
- Develop intercultural skills and participate in international projects or study abroad opportunities.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent (worth at least 180 ECTS) in Psychology, Social Sciences, Business Administration, Economics, or Political Science, with a minimum grade point average of 2.7 (German grading system).
Degree offered: Master of Science (MSc)
Language: English; B2 level (TOEFL iBT 4 in all sections, IELTS Academic 5.5, or Cambridge English Qualifications B2 First).
Instruction: English
- At least 18 ECTS credits in Psychology, Social Sciences, Business Administration, Economics, or Political Science, including a minimum of 6 ECTS in Psychology.
- At least 12 ECTS credits in Statistics, Methods in Quantitative Social Sciences, or Applied Quantitative Empirical Social Research.
- Proficiency in English at B2 level (or equivalent) with an official language certificate (e.g., TOEFL iBT 4 in all sections, IELTS Academic 5.5, or Cambridge English Qualifications B2 First).
- Ability to engage in independent research and critical analysis of social and economic phenomena.
- No nationality or residency restrictions.
- Applicants must meet the minimum ECTS credit requirements in specified fields.
- No age restrictions.
- No prior work experience requirements.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2027-06-15
Applicants must submit their application through the university’s official portal. Required documents include a completed application form, proof of degree, transcripts, language proficiency certificate, and a statement of purpose. The application period for the winter semester runs from April 15 to June 15 annually. Detailed instructions and the application portal are available on the university’s website.
- Completed application form
- Proof of Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Transcripts of all university-level studies
- Official English language proficiency certificate (B2 level)
- Statement of purpose or motivation letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Contact
Study Advisor· Admissions Office
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