European Governance in Transformation (M. A.)
Application open until January 15, 2026 : Study "European Governance in Transformation" at Osnabrück University!
Apply for "European Governance in Transformation" until January 15, 2026 at Osnabrück University. We look forward to welcoming you to Osnabrück in the next semester!
Please apply via HISinOne. If you need any assistance during your application, please contact the Students Office.
If you have any questions about our program, please contact the program representative Prof. Dr. Eva Ruffing.
The MA program European Governance in Transformation focuses on current dynamics in the European Union. While the "European project" was once characterized by ever closer cooperation between its member states and broad support for European integration, it has come under increasing pressure in recent years. On the one hand, the unification process is being fundamentally called into question by some political forces, while on the other, the challenges facing the EU have increased as a result of recent crises. Against this background, the study program explores how the European Union reacts and can react to increasing transformation requirements and crises.
Two features characterize your study experience: Firstly, a sound education in political science on the historical processes, the structures, norms and actors that have emerged as a result of Europeanization, as well as the dynamics of governance in the multi-level system. Classical integration perspectives are supplemented by theories of political economy and international relations. Secondly, the program focuses on teaching practical research and professional skills: Students are taught skills to carry out their own research projects. Furthermore, you will benefit from a very good supervisory relationship. This is complemented by practical orifessionalization and an obligatory internship.
Students can rely on established cooperations and advisory structures at Osnabrück University when planning their compulsory stay or internship abroad. The program is designed for a standard period of study of four semesters and offers students the opportunity to set their own focus in the elective area. European Governance in Transformation qualifies graduates for a wide range of activities within European administrative structures and at various levels of the multi-level system. It also prepares students for an international career in areas such as non-governmental organizations, journalism or academia.
Is the EU's system capable of solving problems in the face of complex challenges such as climate change, crises of the welfare state, international migration or global terrorism?
At a glance
Contents:
- Current dynamics & challenges of the EU
- European integration, political economy, international relations
- Research-based teaching, (international) excursions & intensive support during your studies
- Compulsory stay abroad & internship
Degree & duration:
- Master of Arts, 120 ECTS; standard period of study 4 semesters
Admission requirements:
- Bachelor's degree with at least 30 ECTS in political/social sciences, knowledge of English B1
Study start:
- Winter and summer semester
How do these challenges affect social cohesion, political culture and/or the functioning of democratic institutions in the EU and its member states?
- Interest in current challenges facing the EU and its member states and exploring possible solutions
- Enjoy living abroad for a few months as part of a study visit or internship
- Interest in practical learning: International internship, learning practical skills for everyday working life in EU institutions, practical guidance for carrying out own research projects
- Motivation to focus independently, e.g. on migration, security policy, political economy, in advanced methodology seminars and language courses.
- Successful completion of an undergraduate degree in social sciences & knowledge of English (at least B1)
- Career opportunities in international organizations and non-governmental organizations at home and abroad
- Qualified preparation for a career in national or international administration
- Good career opportunities in science or journalism
- Change the world on a small or large scale, in politics and society
- Accessibility of the teaching staff at the Institute of Social Sciences
- Extensive elective options in the degree program, opportunities for interdisciplinary specialization in the free elective area
- Support services for career orientation and planning a stay abroad
- Modern infrastructure of the institute and the DigiLab in the completely renovated institute building on the university's inner city campus
- Diverse engagement opportunities and support structures at the university, the city of Osnabrück University and within the international innovation region Euregio
Contact us
Program representative
Prof. Dr. Eva Ruffing
Fachbereich 1: Kultur- und Sozialwissenschaften
Seminarstr. 20
49074 Osnabrück
Raum: 15/412b
Sprechstunde: Di 11-12 nach vorheriger Anmeldung per E-Mail