Credit: Anna Logue
Thanks to its interdisciplinary approach and, above all, its focus on quantitative and empirical research, the degree program in Political Science at the University of Mannheim provides an ideal qualification for a future career in research or business. Additionally, choosing a specialization allows you to focus on specific topics that you are interested in. Furthermore, the close relationship with research institutions such as GESIS and MZES is reflected in numerous collaborations. Apart from that, the university's student organizations and departmental student committees offer great opportunities to get involved. Plus: Mannheim, my hometown, stands out above all for its charming suburbs and the different nationalities enriching the cityscape with their food culture, for example.
Studying at the University of Mannheim taught me critical thinking, perseverance, and to not always to go down the first route I see. Although I studied Political Science, I now work in media and fashion. I previously worked at ASOS and Refinery29 in Berlin, and now work as a social media manager at Art Dubai in Dubai.
I was attracted to the University of Mannheim by its learning conditions, its close links to research, and its international orientation. Like many of my fellow students, I worked as a student assistant and went abroad during my studies. My student assistant position improved my understanding of research processes and helped me to better analyze outcomes. Studying abroad was not just a valuable academic experience, it also helped me grow as a person. I am currently completing my dissertation at the Department of Political Science at Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, Maryland) and am working as a research assistant at Humboldt Universität zu Berlin.
Program facts and information
Degree: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
Standard period of study: 6 semesters (= 3 years)
ECTS credits: at least 180
(125 in core subject, approx. 55 in supplementary modules)Language of instruction: German, English
Language requirements: A good level of English proficiency is required.
You can prove your language proficiency if you have taken this subject in school or by taking a language test. For more details, please see the selection statutes.
If you do not hold German citizenship or do not have a German university entrance qualification (e.g. Abitur or equivalent school leaving certificate), you must submit proof that your German language proficiency is equivalent to level C1.Program start: Fall semester (September)
Academic calendarSchool: School of Social Sciences
Semester fee: EUR 169 (more information)
Tuition fees for international students from non-EU countries: EUR 1,500
Tuition fees for a second degree: EUR 650Program overview
Political Science involves analyzing the role of institutions including governments and courts, organizations such as political parties and interest groups, and voters within society in preparing, agreeing, and implementing political decisions within democratic and undemocratic regimes. Questions of power, information, and fairness are empirically addressed from both a general and a personal point of view, including:
- How does a population assess a government, political party, or policy?
- What influence does a government have over the lives of its citizens?
- To what extent are opinion polls considered in political decisions?
The bachelor’s program in Political Science at the University of Mannheim consists of a core subject and the supplementary modules.
Why study Political Science at the University of Mannheim?
The program is research-oriented with an international focus and is respected worldwide. It has long held the top spot in international rankings as the QS Ranking, the Times Higher Education Ranking, the Shanghai Ranking oder the CHE University Ranking. The bachelor’s program in Political Science receives top grades in categories such as overall study situation, scholars’ reputation, international orientation, support for students who wish to study abroad, and career guidance services.
Graduates of the program are able to take up a master's program in Political Science or a related field. By completing a career development module and a social skills module, students are also prepared to begin their professional career right after completing their studies.
Career opportunities
Our graduates work, for example, as members of the German parliament, at the European Commission in Brussels, or at non-governmental organizations such as Terre des Femmes. Other opportunities are available in public relations, at local and national media outlets as well as interest groups, and in business.
Required interests and skills
Program structure
Module catalog
The module catalog, which is only available in German, gives you an overview of the courses and their content.Studying abroad
The University of Mannheim is well-connected internationally, and is partners with around 450 universities around the world. The International Office can help you to plan a semester of study abroad. The ideal time to study abroad is during the fourth or the fifth semester of the program. Studying abroad is optional, and is encouraged by the school. Credits that you obtain abroad are normally recognized by the University of Mannheim, which means that you do not have to extend the duration of your studies.Internships
The career development module gives students an insight into the career options available to political scientists. They build on this module by doing a twelve-week internship during a semester break. Their experiences are then discussed during an exercise course in the following semester.Sample course schedule
This is how your course schedule for the first semester could look like.Continuing Education
Certificate programs
Strengthen your potential, deepen your knowledge, find solutions for challenges we will face tomorrow – there are many good reasons to think outside the box, get to know and try out new things even during your studies.At the University of Mannheim, you can do this in the “Studium Oecologicum” which focuses on sustainability. In our certificate program, you will acquire interdisciplinary expert knowledge which can help you to act ethically and to make holistic decisions.
Language courses
Making language learning easier: No matter if you want to learn Japanese, Hebrew, Spanish or Norwegian, take the Graduate Record Examination Test (GRE), The European Language Certificates (telc) or the TOEFL test – each semester, the University of Mannheim offers language courses and language certificates in more than 16 languages for students and non-university members, online and on campus!Further study
Graduates of the program can take up a master's program in Political Science or a related field in Germany or abroad. Due to the thorough instruction in methods given during the program, graduates also have the opportunity to move directly onto a doctoral program and work towards a doctorate.
Master’s program in Political Science (M.A., taught in English)
Master’s program in Sociology (M.A., taught in English)
Application and selection
At the University of Mannheim, a traditional numerus clausus (within the meaning of a minimum grade required for admission) does not exist. In our selection process, we take numerous criteria into account. For more details, please check the selection statutes (see below). Be bold! Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need advice. We are looking forward to receiving your application!
In our selection process for the Bachelor's Program in Political Science, we take the following criteria into account:
- the grade average achieved in your university entrance qualification,
- the grades achieved in Mathematics and English,
- other achievements relevant to your application (such as experience in a federal, state or local public administration, public relations work for a political party, journalism, employment at a trade union, social organization, or church association).
German language proficiency
If you are not a German citizen or do not have a German university entrance qualification (Abitur or equivalent school leaving certificate), you must prove German language proficiency at C1 level.Selection statutes
Under “Application and selection” we have compiled the most important selection criteria of the program for you. For more detailed explanations of the selection process and the legally binding requirements of the degree program, please refer to the selection statutes.If the program of study is currently not selective, you will receive a study place if you fulfill all admission requirements and apply in due time and form.
Application
- The application deadline for our bachelor's programs for the fall semesters starts on 1 June and ends on 15 July.
Insights into university life
Political Science at the University of Mannheim: Vanessa shows her day-to-day life as a student and explains what she likes about her program. (with English subtitles)
What it's like to study and live in Mannheim
Our Program Ambassadors share their experiences at the University of Mannheim and are happy to help you.
Still not sure where to head and what to study?
We offer additional information and advisory services for prospective students.
