Master of Arts in World Studies: Orders, Politics, Cultures
Interdisciplinary MA programme exploring global structures, governance, and cultural interactions from social science and humanities perspectives.
Best for:Best for graduates in law, sociology, political science, history, or cultural studies seeking an interdisciplinary, globally focused master’s programme with strong research and career prospects in international fields.
Overview
Bielefeld University’s Master of Arts in World Studies offers a two-year interdisciplinary programme that integrates law, history, sociology, political science, and cultural studies. This programme equips students with a deep understanding of global systems, governance, and cultural dynamics, preparing them for careers in international organisations, research, and policy-making. Students engage with diverse perspectives on globalisation, transnational governance, and cultural interpretations through lectures, seminars, and independent research. The curriculum is structured around five core study areas, including global governance, trade, and societal interactions, with opportunities for language training and internships. The programme leverages Bielefeld’s research strengths in globalisation studies and world politics, fostering an international and collaborative academic environment.
What you'll do
- Engage with interdisciplinary coursework covering global governance, trade, cultural interactions, and world society from diverse academic perspectives.
- Participate in lectures, seminars, and workshops on global structures, political systems, and cultural dynamics.
- Conduct independent research and write a master’s thesis in one of the five core study areas (Global Structures and Governance, Global Entanglements, Global Trade and Inequality, World Society and Law, Global Processes and Interactions).
- Optionally undertake an internship during semester breaks to gain practical experience in international or academic settings.
- Develop academic language skills in English or German through integrated language courses.
- Collaborate with international guest lecturers and peers in a globally oriented academic environment.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in law, sociology, political science, history, literature/cultural studies, or a related field with at least three years of higher education (equivalent to a Bachelor’s).
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: English proficiency at B2 level (TOEFL iBT 87, IELTS Academic 5.5, or equivalent). No German language requirement.
Instruction: English
- Proven academic background in one or more of the five core fields of World Studies (law, sociology, political science, history, or cultural studies).
- Ability to conduct independent research and write academic papers.
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills applicable to global and interdisciplinary topics.
- Basic proficiency in English (B2 level) for academic work and communication.
- Applicants must have completed a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
- No nationality or residency restrictions, but non-EU applicants must apply within the specified deadline.
- No age restrictions.
- Applicants must submit a work sample (e.g., essay or BA thesis) to demonstrate relevant skills.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2027-07-15
Applicants must submit their application through Bielefeld University’s online portal (HISinOne). Required documents include a completed application form, proof of English proficiency (B2 level), a work sample from previous studies, transcripts of records, and any additional documents proving eligibility. The application period for non-EU applicants is from June 1 to July 15 for the winter semester.
- Completed application form
- Proof of English proficiency (B2 level)
- Work sample (essay or BA thesis)
- Transcript of records or diploma supplement
- Proof of Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Form detailing verifiable knowledge in methodology of one or more core fields
Contact
International Office· Admissions Support
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