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Leibniz Universität Hannover
Master German Social Sciences

Sociology

Master of Arts (M.A.)

About the Program

The declining birth rate, greater life expectancy and ongoing inward or outward migration result in significant changes in age structures and ethnic or cultural compositions of populations as well as in new patterns of social inequality. Not only demographic change but also processes of globalisation intensify the pressure for change in social organisations. For instance, labour markets and economic systems are rapidly being structured in an international context, traditional institutions of the nation state are being called into question by the internationalisation and transnationalisation of the population. Societies are marked by new lines of conflict, e.g. with regard to welfare state transfers, access to education and jobs, and income fairness. Efforts to resolve these conflicts or forms of escalation define the transformation of social organisations and institutions, as well as individual biographies and options for action. Consequently, they are a core subject-matter of the Master's degree programme in Sociology at Hannover. The close integration of sociological theory and empiricism from an explicitly integrative perspective features strongly in the teaching structure. The notion of practice-based training finds its place here as in the Practical Training module and the "Conference" seminar, in which the design of the student's research work is presented and discussed.
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The declining birth rate, greater life expectancy and ongoing inward or outward migration result in significant changes in age structures and ethnic or cultural compositions of populations as well as in new patterns of social inequality. Not only demographic change but also processes of globalisation intensify the pressure for change in social organisations. For instance, labour markets and economic systems are rapidly being structured in an international context, traditional institutions of the nation state are being called into question by the internationalisation and transnationalisation of the population. Societies are marked by new lines of conflict, e.g. with regard to welfare state transfers, access to education and jobs, and income fairness. Efforts to resolve these conflicts or forms of escalation define the transformation of social organisations and institutions, as well as individual biographies and options for action. Consequently, they are a core subject-matter of the Master's degree programme in Sociology at Hannover. The close integration of sociological theory and empiricism from an explicitly integrative perspective features strongly in the teaching structure. The notion of practice-based training finds its place here as in the Practical Training module and the "Conference" seminar, in which the design of the student's research work is presented and discussed.

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Subjects / Topic Areas

Sociology

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Sociology at Leibniz Universität Hannover

Is Sociology at Leibniz Universität Hannover 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 Sociology 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 Sociology at Leibniz Universität Hannover?

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 Sociology?

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 Leibniz Universität Hannover — 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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