Degree program Democracy, Law and Justice (Master)
accredited

Admission requirements

• A first professionally qualifying university degree recognized in Germany, or a degree from a state or state-recognized University of Cooperative Education (Berufsakademie), in political science, law, or social sciences, or in a degree program with an equivalent subject focus; and

• English language proficiency at level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
Proof must be provided via a higher education entrance qualification certificate indicating the specified language level or via a language certificate, such as IELTS (minimum score of 5.5) or TOEFL iBT (minimum score of 4.0).
Explanations regarding the required language proficiency More on proof of language skills

German language requirements

International applicants and German applicants with a foreign university entrance qualification are kindly advised to read the requirements for German-language courses.

Notes on the application process

If, at the time of application, proof of the first degree qualifying the applicant for a profession is not yet available, the application will be considered under the precondition that 80% of the credit points attainable for the degree have already been achieved based on completed module examinations or the final thesis and the colloquium (if applicable). A certification from the awarding institute of higher education (examination office) serves as proof of the above-mentioned academic achievements. You can find the appropriate form on the Admissions Office website.

General information about the degree program

The Democracy, Law and Justice program combines a strong foundation in political science with an in-depth exploration of the core concepts of democracy, law and justice. Its distinctive focus lies on the interaction between political and legal processes and the normative structures that underpin them — an interdisciplinary combination that is unique in Germany. Throughout the program, students develop the ability to analyze political issues and competing positions using rigorous academic methods, evaluate them critically and communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively. They learn to formulate research questions, design and carry out independent academic projects, and defend discipline-specific arguments with confidence. Graduates leave the program with the analytical, methodological and communication skills needed to address political challenges in both academic and professional contexts.

Study contents

Students gain a solid understanding of comparative political systems, regime transformation and the methods used to analyze them. The program also covers the development and theory of the democratic constitutional state, the foundations of constitutional law and constitutional reasoning. In addition, students engage with contemporary perspectives, including gender and postcolonial theories, the impact of digitalization on politics and political science, and forms of political governance beyond the nation state, such as international institutions and regimes.

Structure

Core courses (90 ECTS credit points)
Focus courses (30 ECTS credit points)

For the focus courses, students can choose between

— Studying abroad
— An internship
— Interdisciplinary studies

Further information on the elective compulsory field of the focus courses at the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Science

Stay abroad

Would you like to spend a semester abroad? Whether it is a semester of studies, an internship or a language course abroad, you will definitely benefit from the international experience. You can improve your knowledge of your subject and language skills, establish new contacts, make friends, get to know other cultures, and much more. You can find further information on the International Office’s website.

Occupational fields

Graduates are well prepared for careers in both academic and non-academic settings. The program equips them with the subject-specific knowledge and methodological skills needed to take on a wide range of complex professional tasks after a short period of familiarization. They are particularly qualified for roles that require analytical thinking, critical reflection, independent work and the ability to communicate effectively with different audiences, both orally and in writing. Potential career paths include research institutions, public administration, international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), political parties, professional associations and policy advisory organizations. Graduates also acquire advanced skills in research, academic writing and presentation, opening up opportunities in knowledge transfer, organizational and management roles, as well as advisory positions in the public and private sectors.

Study documents

The official announcements of TU Dresden include all published regulations . Please use the search bar to find the document you need: Official proclamation

The regulations are also available on each institution’s website.

Contacts

Admissions Office

Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Science

International Office

Additional information