Course content and focus areas
The interdisciplinary master’s program in International Studies/Peace and Conflict Research (MA ISFK) provides you with guidance for shaping political strategies in a globalized, complex, and highly interdependent world.
The master’s program combines offerings from political science, sociology, philosophy, law, computer science, as well as engineering and natural sciences in its curriculum. The program’s focus is on issues related to conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and the formation of order, the analysis of international institutions, and the ecologically and socially sustainable development of all parts of the world. You will gain expertise in the following areas:
- international relations
- international political economy,
- social science theories and methods,
- scientific work for science, international organizations, ministries, non-governmental organizations, and evaluation.
As part of the elective module, you’ll also have the opportunity to specialize in one of three thematic areas: “Globalization and World Development” (7A), “Scientific and Technical Dimensions of Peace and Conflict Research” (7B), or “Environment, Climate, Energy” (7C).
Independent Research in the Research Internship
In addition to normative foundations and theoretical knowledge, your studies will focus on developing your ability to practically apply the theories and research methods you’ve learned, such as through the integration of research-based learning within the research internship. Under professional guidance, you’ll practice applying methods of empirical social research, make independent decisions in developing your own research design, and present and defend your findings appropriately.
A Unique Cooperative Program
The MA ISFK is offered as a cooperative program jointly by Goethe University Frankfurt and the Technical University of Darmstadt (TU Darmstadt), with participation from the Peace Research Institute Frankfurt (HSFK). This collaboration results in an extensive and research-oriented range of courses across all areas of political science and beyond.
Developing Perspectives through the Internship
The internship embedded in the curriculum is designed to give you initial insights into potential career fields. To foster dialogue with your fellow students, the internship concludes with a study day. This event provides an opportunity to share experiences, discuss possible career paths, and network with one another.
Building International Competencies
Given the highly international focus of the ISFK program’s subject areas, you’ll have the chance to enhance your profile by attending numerous English-language courses. Faculty members with significant international experience at renowned institutions, along with guest scholars from around the world, offer specialized seminars in peace and conflict research as well as methodological formats in English. As a student in the MA ISFK program, you’ll also have the opportunity to study abroad, either at one of the many international partner universities of Goethe University’s Faculty of Social Sciences or the Political Science Institute at TU Darmstadt.