The consecutive and research-based master’s degree programme in Political Science is offered by the Institute of Political Science at Goethe University Frankfurt and teaches in-depth scientific knowledge in the entire breadth of the subject. It is characterised by a comprehensive portfolio of courses as well as wide-ranging learning and research contexts that reflect the various focus areas at the institute. In the tradition of the internationally renowned Frankfurt social sciences, the MA Political Science imparts the skills required for working independently in line with academic principles, for applying scientific methods and for reflecting critically on social contexts.

In detail, the MA Political Science enables intensive engagement with the paradigmatic, theoretical and methodological fundamentals of the discipline as well as illustrative questions of Political Theory, Comparative Politics and International Relations. Within a research practice course (project-based studies) and a compulsory internship related to the professional field, students can also gain experience and systematically reflect on it for their later career.

The Institute of Political Science at Goethe University Frankfurt is Germany’s largest political science institute. It is characterised by a unique combination of academic pluralism and excellence in research. With 22 professors and over 50 research associates, the institute offers a diverse and differentiated course portfolio with a strong focus on research in all subdomains of the discipline. Current research priorities are Comparative Capitalism, Justice and Legitimacy in a Transnational Perspective, Comparative Democracy Research and Politics of Competing International Order(s).

The MA Political Science offers a wide range of options. Apart from a focus area in the compulsory electives Political Theory, Comparative Politics and International Relations, students can also choose specific courses within these areas. In addition to the compulsory electives, all students attend the introductory module “Theoretical Paradigms and Methods of Political Science” and attend a research practice course, where they deepen their knowledge of methods and prepare their own empirical research work.

As a quality assurance process, accreditation at Goethe University Frankfurt aims to ensure high-quality degree programmes. In Hesse, degree programmes are generally accredited, in accordance with Section 12 (2) Hessian Higher Education Act, before teaching operations commence. Since the university was accepted for system accreditation, accreditation has been conducted as an internal (re)accreditation process when degree programmes are established or continued.