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Universität Duisburg-Essen
Master German Social Sciences

Social Work

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Universität Duisburg-Essen Nordrhein-Westfalen · North Rhine-Westphalia Location: Essen

About the Program

The Master's program in Social Work (M.A.) is a generalist-oriented master's degree that qualifies its students for professional practice, leadership and socially formative positions, as well as for scientific career opportunities. The program does not view professional practice and research orientation as opposites, but assumes that high research competence is becoming increasingly important for qualified activities in the professional practice of social work. The central focus of the master's program is particularly on the socio-political function and design of social work as well as comprehensive research methods training. The program is organized as a full-time study and comprises four semesters, with the master's thesis including the colloquium scheduled in the final fourth semester. The master's program is divided into 8 modules plus the master's module (Module 9). A total of 120 ECTS credits are earned.
▶ Show the original English text
The Master's program in Social Work (M.A.) is a generalist-oriented master's degree that qualifies its students for professional practice, leadership and socially formative positions, as well as for scientific career opportunities. The program does not view professional practice and research orientation as opposites, but assumes that high research competence is becoming increasingly important for qualified activities in the professional practice of social work. The central focus of the master's program is particularly on the socio-political function and design of social work as well as comprehensive research methods training. The program is organized as a full-time study and comprises four semesters, with the master's thesis including the colloquium scheduled in the final fourth semester. The master's program is divided into 8 modules plus the master's module (Module 9). A total of 120 ECTS credits are earned.

Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?

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Subjects / Topic Areas

Social Work

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How do I apply to Social Work at Universität Duisburg-Essen?

Most international applicants apply via uni-assist (document verification + APS for some countries). Prepare your secondary/Bachelor diploma, transcripts, language certificate (DSH/TestDaF or IELTS/TOEFL), motivation letter and CV. Non-EU students also need a Sperrkonto (~11,904 EUR/year) for the visa.

  1. Check requirements — Verify your degree is recognised + meet language/grade thresholds.
  2. Get language certificate — TestDaF / DSH for German programmes, IELTS / TOEFL for English.
  3. Submit via uni-assist (non-EU) — Document review + APS if your country requires it (China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, etc.).
  4. Apply directly or via uni portal — Some universities accept direct applications — check the official programme page.
  5. Open Sperrkonto + apply for visa — After admission, deposit 11,904 EUR, get health insurance, book embassy appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Social Work at Universität Duisburg-Essen

Is Social Work at Universität Duisburg-Essen taught in German or English? ▼

This Master programme is taught in German. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.

How much does the Social Work programme cost? ▼

No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for Social Work at Universität Duisburg-Essen? ▼

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (German), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).

When is the application deadline? ▼

Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.

Can I work in Germany while studying Social Work? ▼

Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.

How do I apply to Universität Duisburg-Essen — directly or via uni-assist? ▼

Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.

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