Double Master's Programme in Demography and Social Inequality

in cooperation with the University of Groningen

Programme

The Double Master's Programme offered jointly by the University of Cologne and the University of Groningen is an innovative and unique programme that will allow you to gain a comprehensive understanding of the theories, methods and practices of social research in both academic and practical settings. Benefit from the expertise of two leading universities, enjoy the advantages of an interdisciplinary approach and gain valuable international experience.

• Explore topics such as migration, health, education, income, aging and changing family structures in the context of demographic change and social inequalities
• Get a better understanding of pressing social issues related to demographic change and social inequality
• Receive a strong training in a range of quantitative methods and data analysis tools
• Gain the skills to apply these methods and tools needed to address complex social issues in a rapidly changing world
• Learn how to translate social and demographic research results to inform an audience outside the research community and policy makers

On successful completion of your studies, you will be awarded both master’s degrees: a Master of Science in Sociology: Social Research from the University of Cologne and a Master of Science in Population Studies from the University of Groningen.

Courses

The courses offered by the two universities offer a wide range of topics and complement each other very well. The double degree is integrated into the regular master's programmes. It includes courses from both and is based on credit transfer.
 

Get an idea on the content of the courses:
UoC module catalogue
RUG course catalogue

Part of the study programme is to write a master's thesis, which you will work on in your second year of studies.
 

Our partner: The University of Groningen

The University of Groningen is one of the most prestigious universities in the Netherlands. It is also one of the leading research universities in Europe. The university is known for its large international community and a global outlook. The city of Groningen - like Cologne - is a great place to study, with a very pleasant student atmosphere.
 

Benefits of studying a double degree

The experience of studying abroad is one that many people remember as the most enriching, eye-opening and inspiring time of their lives. Studying in two university systems gives you the opportunity to experience different study cultures, broadening your academic horizons, your network and your career opportunities. As well as providing you with an excellent academic programme, we want to give you the chance to gain international experience, meet people from many different parts of the world, develop intercultural skills and learn to navigate new challenges. We believe that you will grow tremendously as a person through this experience.

Career opportunities

You will develop a broad range of research and personal skills and will be well prepared for a variety of careers that require in-depth knowledge of social research methods at an academic level and of the implications of demographic change. Possible areas of employment include:

• Research and academic institutions,
• Government institutions dealing with economic and social policy at national, federal or regional level,
• Demographic institutes and statistical agencies, including development organisations.

Contact

Would you like to know more about the programme? Get in touch with the Programme Manager: