Development Studies in Bayreuth addresses contemporary challenges in global processes of socio-economic change from an interdisciplinary perspective. The programme focusses on the Global South by integrating universal, regional and local perspectives.
You will benefit from the university's unique expertise in African affairs, but the study programme is not limited to this one global area. A model of study tailored to fit your interests, along with the university’s impressive network, and our diverse and interactive study groups provide the ideal conditions for personal and intellectual growth. We offer the possibility to study global development across various disciplinary perspectives, while you can choose an individual focus in one of three fields according to your previous training: advanced global sociology and politics, advanced global geography, or advanced international economics.
We invite you to take a look at our programme in Development Studies which is designed to make you think and possibly re-think your present ideas about development in the world. This website provides you with comprehensive information about general study conditions (see FAQ section) as well as the application and admission process. We admit students with an academic background in economics, human geography, political science or sociology. We expect a sound methodological training in one of these or closely affiliated disciplines. We also require first work experiences related to development by means of an internship or contracted employment.
The programme is fully taught in English, which leads to highly internationalized groups of students. Roughly two thirds of our student originate from non-European countries. Additional classes in German may be available for elective modules. You want to make your experience even more international? Take a look at our double degree options.
5.10.2025 - Essential Information for new students
Welcome to the University of Bayreuth and the Development Studies programme! Below you’ll find an overview of the most important dates, events, and useful resources to help you get started.
- All new Development Studies students starting in the Wintersemester 25/26 should join the Welcome meeting for Development Studies on Mon, 13.10.2025, 11:00 - 12:00; Location: S40 RW II.
- You can find the Campus Map here.
- You can find the Campus Map here.
- The first session of Introduction to Development Studies (Module A1) by Dr. Biruk Terrefe will take place on Thu, 16.10., 08:00 - 10:00; Location S120 GW I.
- Orientation week by the International Office 6.10 - 10.10; register here.
- The university libraries offer introduction sessions to help you find your way around and use their resources effectively. English orientation sessions are offered on Thu 19.10 and Thur 16.10. More information here.
- Introduction to cmlife for students of all faculties Thu, 23.10. online via Teams (English); you can find the Link in this document.
- You can find further general introduction lectures and welcome meetings from the University here and important information for the beginning of your studies (e.g. UBT-Campus-Card, cmlife) on the Website of the Student Administration Office.
Important Websites to check out:
- Language Center, if you want to learn a foreign language or have to take German classes.
- Writing Center, offering workshops on academic writing and consultations hours.
- International Office, the Welcome Service of the International Office is very helpful in answering all your questions on Visa, accommodation, insurance etc.
- Further the Erasmus Student Network social and cultural activities for international students.
Essential Information and Resources
- Weekly schedule for the 2025/26 Winter Term (as of 30.07.2025)
- Request for recognition of course achievements from different universities, e.g. from previous MA study programmes or semesters abroad (only available in German)
→ Translation assistance: inofficial translation of the above request form
Regulations applicable for students (starting 2023 or later)
- Simplyfied study scheme
- Module handbook (as of June 2025)
- The current and old examination rules are available here in German and English
Regulations applicable for students enrolled before 2023
- Simplyfied study scheme for all students enrolled before 2023
- Module handbook (as of July 2019; here you can find the old module handbook as of September 2017)
- Examination rules (as of October 2020. This version also applies to students formerly studying under the July 2019 regulations; here you can find the old examination rules as of September 2017)
- Project Plan Form for modules E1 & E2 (only relevant for students enrolled before 2023; version as of July 2019)