Start of study

Winter semester

Study structure

You will begin with basic modules to learn key methodological foundations, and you will study the political system in Germany. After this, you will choose two of the four following fields of study:

1. Analysis and comparison of political systems
2. Introduction to policy analysis
3. International relations and European integration
4. Theory of states and democracies

In the advanced module you will choose two courses from the fields of international relations and European integration, comparative politics and policy analysis, theories and /or methods.

These documents will support you in planning your studies:

• Module guide
• Examination regulation

At the University of Konstanz, you have a broad range of opportunities and training options that complement your study programme, for example orientation programmes to support new students, learning guidance, language courses, a data and information literacy programme as well as options promoting career-oriented skills and social commitment.

• GoMINt – orientation programme in STEM subjects
• Writing Centre – writing tutoring, joint writing sessions and workshops
• Language courses at the Language Institute
• Learning guidance, study tips, time management – workshops offered by the Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB)

• Advanced Data and Information Literacy Track (ADILT) – programme can be completed with a certificate
• Transfer – practical projects (research, business, politics and society)
• qualification N – Sustainability Certificate at the University of Konstanz

• Profil+ – programme for career skills (German skills required)
• Career Passport – programme for career skills (for international students)
• Advice on career entry, opportunities and workshops from Career Service

Hear from students and lecturers
In our interview series, students talk about their subject, teachers explain the department's research and tell you what topics they cover in seminars and lectures.

• Three Questions to Niklas, B.A. Politics and Public Administration
• Three Questions to Friederike, B.A. Politics and Public Administration
• Three Questions to Fernando, B.A. Politics and Public Administration

Get an impression
Discover online lectures and websites with more information about your prospective subject.

• Information page for the study of Politics and Public Administration
• Discover the subject - I am studying Politics, Administration and Management!
• Lecture Recordings (Politics and Public Administration)
• Interview: Humboldt-Professor Dr. Anke Höffler

The same general entry requirements apply for the major and minor: General higher education entrance qualification (Abitur) or equivalent.

Further information can be found in the admission regulations.

Semester fee
All students enrolled at the University of Konstanz are charged a semester fee each semester, similar to all other German universities. Here you can find the current semester fee and its individual components.

Tuition fees for first degree studies for certain international students
Since winter semester 2017/18, the state of Baden-Württemberg has required some international students to pay tuition fees for their first degree studies. The following students are not required to pay tuition fees: citizens of a country within the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA), doctoral students and certain “Bildungsinländer” (e.g. non-EU citizens with a German “Abitur”). More detailed information can be found here.

Each year, the University of Konstanz grants exemptions to a limited number of particularly gifted international degree-seeking students in accordance with the university’s “Begabtenbefreiungssatzung” (statutes governing the exemption of gifted students). More detailed information can be found here.

Tuition fees for second degree studies for all students
All students are required to pay tuition fees for their second degree studies. More detailed information can be found here.

You do not have to proof any foreign language skills. However, good English skills are mandatory since the majority of the course literature is in English as well as the instruction language of some of the lectures and seminars.

The languages of instruction and examinations are German and English.

The department concentrates especially on an empirical-analytical approach to political science and provides you with a firm grounding in the foundations of quantitative research methods. As a result, a command of mathematics at upper secondary school level is essential. The courses are taught in German and English. You need good English skills already at the start of your studies to read the relevant international literature. In addition to this, you will find it useful to have a general knowledge of the history of the Federal Republic of Germany, the European Union and a basic knowledge of 19th and 20th century world history. You also need to have a definite interest in present-day politics and society. If there are some gaps in certain areas of basic knowledge but you are prepared to catch up before or during your studies, you will be well equipped to complete your studies with success.

Application documents

During the online application process, you will need to enter various kinds of information (school grades, attendance periods etc.) and upload various PDF documents. Please make sure that you have the relevant documentation ready. This may include:

• your Abitur certificate (German general higher education entrance qualification)
• documentation of any volunteering you may have done (FSJ, FÖJ etc.)
• any documentation about vocational training you may have completed
• any other required documents (medical certificate etc.)

An electronic assistant will guide you through the application process. Required fields are marked by an asterisk (*).

An application is possible during the following period: 07.05. - 15.07.
There may be other deadlines if you are applying for admission to a higher semester (for instance, if you are changing subjects or universities). For more information please consult the university website .

The Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB) can help you with general questions about finding the right study programme as well as when you are concerned or unsure about your studies. We will be happy to advise you and support you with a wide range of services .

Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB)
Room: D 409 – 412a
Make an appointment: termin.zsb@uni-konstanz.de

Questions related to the content or organization of the study programme:
Departmental student advisory service
​​​​​Dr. Anna Vollert
Room: D 324
Phone: +49 7531 88-3501
Email: bachelor.polver@uni-konstanz.de