The Master’s programme Peace and Security Studies has welcomed a new cohort of 24 students. With academic backgrounds ranging from political and social science to photojournalism, ecological agriculture, medicine, and law, the group reflects the programme’s interdisciplinary and practice-oriented approach. Over the course of two or four semesters, the students will engage with both the theoretical and practical aspects of peace research and security policy.
On October 6th, the academic coordinator of the programme, Dr. Anne Menzel, and IFSH Director Prof. Dr Ursula Schröder officially welcomed the new students. In her speech, Prof. Schröder emphasized the relevance of the programme’s themes in the light of current global conflicts.
Engaging Start to the Semester
A diverse and engaging programme marked the start of the orientation week: the partner institutes of the programme, the so-called KoFrieS cooperation network, and the alumni association introduced themselves, offering insights into their work. A guided tour of the nearby Von-Melle-Park campus of the University of Hamburg helped students get orientated and explore their academic surroundings. In the coming weeks and months, the cohort will take part in interdisciplinary seminars and an excursion to Berlin, where they will visit government institutions, civil society organizations, and think tanks.
What Makes the Degree Programme Special
In 2002, the IFSH became the first institute in Germany to launch a degree programme focused on conflict research. In either two or four semesters, university graduates have the opportunity to gain both theoretical and practical expertise in the fields of peace research and security policy. The programme is defined by its interdisciplinary approach and its integration of academic study and practical learning. It is supported by numerous faculties and institutes within the Cooperation Network for Peace Research and Security Policy (KoFrieS). This structure ensures that graduates are well-equipped and sought-after in academia, policy-making, and civil society.
Interested in Working for Peace?
Whether in academia or in practice – the Master's programme in Peace and Security Studies (M.A.) provides a solid foundation for a career dedicated to peace and security.
Apply from February for the academic year 2026/2027!
