Students choose their specializations according to their personal interests and professional aims. From the first to the third semesters, they complete two ouf of four specialization modules. Each specialization module consists of elective seminars and a module examination. The variety of courses being offered helps students develop and specialize their individual profiles.
Students complete two out of the four following specialization modules:
The International and Global Public Policy specialization module introduces students to the functioning of international relations and international organizations and to policy problems that affect countries and regions on a global level. The ways in which political forces shape and interact with economic systems and vice versa are considered. Students acquire analytical competencies regarding the actors and stakeholders, institutions and issues in policy areas that can only be tackled internationally (e.g. climate, energy, sustainability).
The Development and Socio-Economic Policy module deals with development policy, policies for fighting poverty and inequality, economic and social development and progress. The seminars investigate questions like "Do aid policies work?", "Do we progress? What kind of progress and how do we measure it?" Conceptualizations of progress or good governance are examined extensively and are broadened and the impact of policies is evaluated.
The Conflict Studies and Management specialization provides students with a sound theoretical basis for analyzing contemporary conflicts and developing responses to them. Furthermore, it conveys practical skills to critically analyze policy interventions and to develop approaches to conflict resolution. It allows students to deepen their knowledge in various areas of conflict studies and conflict management and to enhance their respective regional expertise.
As part of the Non-Profit Management and Social Entrepreneurship module students study management approaches, methods and instruments in non-profit organizations and social enterprises. Students who aim to work in the non-profit sector train their entrepreneurial, creative, innovative and independent thinking. They learn how to develop and present as well as how to implement social projects and business ideas in an impact-oriented way.
Customize your MPP experience, find your favorite specializations and apply now!
Find out more about requirements, deadlines and scholarships in the section on
You can't decide on two specializations, yet? Of course you may revise your decision during the first weeks of the program.
Willy Brandt School
of Public Policy
at the University of Erfurt
Get to know us
University of Erfurt (Campus)
Nordhäuser Str. 63
99089 Erfurt