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Universität Kassel
Master English Social Sciences

Sustainability and Postcolonial Studies

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Universität Kassel Kassel · Hesse

About the Program

This master's programme focuses on critically analyzing and advancing understandings of global inequalities, (post-)colonial entanglements, gender relations, and sustainability concepts and practices. The critical-analytical study programme examines ideas, discourses and practices surrounding 'sustainability' from postcolonial perspectives, exploring the historical and societal origins of current sustainability concepts. Students develop skills in theoretical and empirical analysis through project-based learning, conducting their own research on topics ranging from extractivist policies to circular economies. The program combines sustainability with postcolonial perspectives, emphasizing the dimensions of gender, nature and history from historical and contemporary analytical perspectives. Rather than providing simple answers, the programme aims to lay foundations for critical thinking about and engaging with concepts and practices of sustainability that are fairer and more effective than current ones. Students learn to question the construction of sustainability concepts, identify dominant interpretations and universalisms, and challenge assumptions, thereby opening up debates that go beyond prevailing appropriation strategies. The program believes this approach is essential for developing more acceptable, viable and truly sustainable concepts for our world's future.
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This master's programme focuses on critically analyzing and advancing understandings of global inequalities, (post-)colonial entanglements, gender relations, and sustainability concepts and practices. The critical-analytical study programme examines ideas, discourses and practices surrounding 'sustainability' from postcolonial perspectives, exploring the historical and societal origins of current sustainability concepts. Students develop skills in theoretical and empirical analysis through project-based learning, conducting their own research on topics ranging from extractivist policies to circular economies. The program combines sustainability with postcolonial perspectives, emphasizing the dimensions of gender, nature and history from historical and contemporary analytical perspectives. Rather than providing simple answers, the programme aims to lay foundations for critical thinking about and engaging with concepts and practices of sustainability that are fairer and more effective than current ones. Students learn to question the construction of sustainability concepts, identify dominant interpretations and universalisms, and challenge assumptions, thereby opening up debates that go beyond prevailing appropriation strategies. The program believes this approach is essential for developing more acceptable, viable and truly sustainable concepts for our world's future.

Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?

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Subjects / Topic Areas

Sustainability Studies

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How do I apply to Sustainability and Postcolonial Studies at Universität Kassel?

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 Sustainability and Postcolonial Studies at Universität Kassel

Is Sustainability and Postcolonial Studies at Universität Kassel taught in German or English? ▼

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

How much does the Sustainability and Postcolonial Studies 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 Sustainability and Postcolonial Studies at Universität Kassel? ▼

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (English), 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 Sustainability and Postcolonial Studies? ▼

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 Kassel — 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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