Strategy and International Security (MSIS) University of Bonn

• Lauder School of Government, Reichmann University Herzliya
• Universität Potsdam
• Fraunhofer Institute

Courses are exclusively held in English. Students are also expected to write papers, essays and their thesis in English.

The two-year degree programme “Strategy and International Security” (MSIS) comes just at the right time to do justice to the increased importance of strategy and security policy. Participants will study the 21st century’s most pressing international and national security problems. The aim is to better understand the world of today and the challenges that lie ahead. Special emphasis will lie on international law and the future of the international system. The degree programme will also focus on emerging security challenges as well as the relationship of diplomacy and military strategy. The programme will be led by both Bonn faculty members and experienced practitioners. It will prepare students for careers in international organisations, foreign services, national security institutions, and NGOs as well as multinational companies.

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The four basic modules of the degree programme will provide students with basic knowledge in the field of strategy and security studies such as diplomacy, strategy and the aspects relating to geoeconomics and technology. In addition, they are taught the methodological basics for dealing with current and future issues. Elective modules will deepen the knowledge of students in research areas such as German foreign policy, European regulation of network industries, international law and global power shifts. In our broad understanding of security challenges, environmental security, food security, and health security are also included. The elective modules are offered in cooperation with different departments of the University of Bonn.

Courses may also be taken at our partner universities in Herzliya (Israel) or Potsdam (Germany) in the partner modules about issues such as terrorism research.

The entire programme is practice-oriented and requires the completion of a mandatory three-month internship in close cooperation with regional and national partners. The final stage of the programme is dedicated to the completion of a Master's thesis. Please find a detailed description of all modules in the course manual.

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A six-week internship (full-time) is mandatory to complete the Master’s programme. The programme adviser will assist students in finding an appropriate internship in international organisations or institutions in Bonn.

No tuition fees

The University of Bonn is a public university, meaning that it does not charge tuition fees. However, all students must pay the so-called social contribution (semester fee) of about 330 EUR per semester. It includes a student transit pass for public transport and a statutory accident insurance, among other things.

Compared to the rest of Europe, living in Germany is not very expensive; in fact, it is only slightly above the EU average. The cost of living for students in Bonn is around 800 EUR to 1,000 EUR, with apartment rent accounting for the largest share.

• Bachelor of Arts or equivalent degree acquired in Germany or abroad in political science:
  • Minimum grade: 2.7 with degree; 2.3 with just Transcript of Records
  • Minimum of 12 ECTS in international relations or equivalent
• Examination regulations stipulate a local Numerus Clausus, NC. (Applicants will be chosen by grade.)
• Last NC: 1.4

English language test C1 according to Common European Reference Framework (CEFR)

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No

Students of the University of Bonn can apply for a room in a dormitory of the "Studierendenwerk Bonn" (further information: https://www.studierendenwerk-bonn.de/en/accommodation/).

For more information on housing in Bonn, please visit our website: www.uni-bonn.de/en/university/university-lif e/living-in-bonn.

The University of Bonn has a central Career Service (www.uni-bonn.de/careerservice) that provides a range of advice and support about choosing a career and applying for jobs. Moreover, international students can join the iStart career programme (www.uni-bonn.de/istart), which teaches participants tangible knowledge and valuable skills that will enable them to write successful applications for jobs in Germany. The programme is geared toward giving students a successful career path both during and after their studies and thus making it easier for them to enter the job market.

The International Office (Dezernat 6) offers students a variety of support at the beginning and during their stay in Germany. Examples include a buddy programme, welcome events to help with registration procedures and finding accommodation.