Area International Environment and Development Studies

Profound societal, economic and ecological changes shape the globalizing and digitalizing world. Understanding and critically assessing these dynamic developments is necessary to make knowledge-based and responsible decisions at the local level, or from the point of view of a company or an international organization. The Area International Environment and Development Studies therefore provides theoretical and empirical methods and practical tools for the development and implementation of complex strategies for sustainable development and poverty reduction. The range of modules and disciplines of the area is correspondingly broad. There is a choice between a more microeconomic or macroeconomic orientation and between theoretical or rather empirical-quantitative modules. Common to all modules is the international and multidisciplinary focus on socially relevant issues and ecological problems. In addition, it is basically possible for students to obtain practical experiences in the context of internationally oriented research projects when writing their final theses. The area also offers students a unique opportunity for intercultural learning and exchange among international participants.

The area is a very multidisciplinary and practice-oriented training at Master level. It offers a variety of modules that allows each student to choose modules according to their own interests. In selected modules, national and international practice partners are invited, who not only share their knowledge but also pass on their professional experience to students. The close link between the study in this area and the international research projects of some participating institutes enables the students to gain practical experience - possibly also in connection with an own stay in a cooperation country. These experiences prepare the students for pursuing their doctoral degree, especially in the area of development and environmental issues, and for responsible activities in companies or international organizations. This is to be seen against the background of the observation that the private sector is increasingly developing and implementing its own sustainability strategies.

The Master area is aimed at students who are particularly interested in global environmental and development issues. There should be a strong interest in methodological and practical issues.

Graduates either qualify for further doctoral studies, or for management positions in private national and international companies, ministries or international organizations. Due to the increasing importance of sustainability thinking and global responsibility, the opportunities in the professional world are also increasing. Particularly for graduates with solid empirical-econometric knowledge, there are excellent career opportunities.