The Master’s programme in Social Studies – Crises, Culture and Critique provides a comprehensive understanding of urgent societal challenges like migration, racism, social inequality, and ecological crises. It equips students with theoretical knowledge, specialist expertise, and practical skills to critically analyze these issues from social science, cultural, and philosophical perspectives. The programme combines social science theories and empirical research methods with insights from social and cultural philosophy, as well as critical studies in art, media, and history. Graduates will be prepared to research societal challenges and conflicts and develop constructive solutions based on principles of critique, democracy, human rights, social justice, and ecological responsibility.
The programme begins with an introductory module on social science theories and research methods. Students then select two specialisation modules from 'Borders and Migration, Racism and Authoritarianism', 'Capitalism, Social Inequality, Ecological Crises', or 'Theory, Culture, Critique'. These specialisations are further developed through elective modules, which can include focusing on a third core topic, interdisciplinary electives (Central and East European Studies, Cultural History, Gender and Queer Studies, Philosophy and Arts in Times of Crises), or the 'Language and Practice' module for language enhancement or internships. A significant component is a supervised research project, culminating in a Master's thesis and an oral examination.
Graduates are equipped to research and address complex societal challenges, preparing them for roles in various sectors that require critical analysis and solution-oriented approaches.
Official certification of your first degree is required.
A semester contribution of approximately 350 EUR is required per semester, covering social services, student body fees, registration, a public transport ticket, and a student ID card.
Applicants need a first professionally qualifying degree with a minimum of 180 ECTS credits. This must include at least 30 ECTS credits in social or cultural sciences, such as sociology, political science, or philosophy.
There are no tuition fees for this Master's programme. However, a semester contribution of approximately 350 EUR is required per semester, and estimated living costs are around 700 EUR per month.
The programme has a duration of 4 semesters and is taught entirely in English. Free German language courses are also available at the Viadrina Language Centre.
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Researchers, Analysts, Project Managers, Policy Advisors, and Consultants. The programme equips them to address complex societal challenges in various sectors.
Yes, students may be eligible for the Viadrina Financial Support Programme, which provides approximately 150 EUR and a partial waiver of administration fees. More details are available on the university's financing page.