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Political Science

Major

Important information at a glance

Degree: Bachelor (Minor)Language of Instruction: GermanStart of studies: Winter semesterAdmission: NC (restricted admission)Combined subjects: Combined bachelor's degree (minor)Standard period of study: 6

Why do wars happen? What is justice? What holds the EU together? If you’re interested in these or similar fundamental questions about our society, a course in political science is the right choice for you. In the B.A. Political Science program, you’ll explore a wide range of questions across the three main areas of political science: Political Theory focuses primarily on how political processes should be designed. In contrast, Comparative Politics examines how institutions and processes within political systems (such as states or the European Union) actually function. The subfield of International Relations addresses foreign policy issues and other cross-border political developments. This degree program not only provides expertise but also aims to develop critical judgment and the ability to identify causes and solutions for complex political and social problems.

The Frankfurt Institute for Political Science is the largest political science institute in Germany. It offers an especially diverse and comprehensive range of courses with a strong research focus across all areas of the discipline. After an introduction to the fundamental methods and content of the field, you’ll have excellent opportunities to set your own focus and deepen your knowledge in a specific area.

The Frankfurt degree program stands out for its international compatibility—take advantage of opportunities like a semester abroad. Additionally, the program’s traditional integration with sociology provides a broad foundation in social science basics with a focus on political science.

The interdisciplinary Cluster of Excellence “The Formation of Normative Orders” and the cooperation with the Peace Research Institute Frankfurt offer a unique variety of topics, course content, and specialization opportunities.

Video: Introduction to the Political Science Degree Program

Structure and content

Political science can be studied as a major or as a minor.

Course of study

Fundamentals

During your first winter semester, you will attend the Introduction to Political Science (Preparatory Course). This course includes an introductory lecture and an accompanying tutorial on academic work.

Subfields

In this phase, you will explore various topics from Political Theory, Comparative Political Science, and International Relations.

Specialization

In the final phase, you will select courses from the specialization module. Here, you can deepen your knowledge in one of the subfields mentioned above and choose from a wide range of political science courses at both the B.A. and M.A. levels.

Detailed information about the content and structure of the program can be found on the Department 3 pages.

Study regulations

The study regulations govern the structure, organization, and content of the degree program as well as the examination system. They form the basis for your studies at Goethe University.