Master of Arts in
"Strategy and International Security" (MSIS)
This two-year degree programme is organized by the Henry Kissinger Chair at the Institute for Political Science and Sociology and provides students with an in-depth knowledge of strategy and international security. Participants study the 21st century’s most pressing international and national security problems. The aim is to better understand the world of today and the challenges that lie ahead. Special emphasis lies on international law and the future of the international system. The degree programme also focuses on emerging security challenges as well as the relationship of diplomacy and military strategy. The programme is led by both Bonn faculty members and experienced practitioners. It prepares students for careers in international organizations, foreign services, national security institutions, and NGOs as well as multinational companies. The number of students participating in the programme is limited to 20. Those interested are invited to apply.
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ADMISSION STATUS
The application phase for the winter term 2024/25 is over. The next application cycle for the entry in 2025/26 will start in summer 2025.
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BASIC INFORMATION
Duration
Two years/ 120 ECTS, full time
Begin of Study
Language
English (Level C1)Academic Degree
Master of Arts (M.A.)Tuition Fee
University fee (~ €300/per semester)NEWS
The students of the second MSIS-cohort embarked on an insightful trip to the Academy of International Affairs on October 16, 2024.
With the start of the winter semester 2024/25, we also welcomed the second cohort of the Master's degree programme “Strategy and International Security” at the University of Bonn. Numerous guests from politics and academia were invited to the opening ceremony on October 10.
From June 27 to 28, 2024, students from the Master’s Program “Strategy and International Security” (MSIS) embarked on an insightful field trip to Brussels, visiting the Brussels office of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) and NATO Headquarters. The field trip was organized by Dr. Cedric Bierganns, KAS Bonn, Philipp van Helden, Research Fellow at the Henry-Kissinger-Chair for Security and Strategic Studies and Ambassador (ret.) Dirk Brengelmann, Fellow at CASSIS. On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the North Atlantic Treaty, the students engaged in discussions with high-ranking officials from EU, NATO, and other renowned think tanks about current challenges and the future of transatlantic and European Security.
As part of our seminar "The United Nations Security Council in times of turmoil" of our Master's Programme "Strategy and International Security" (MSIS) we held a two-day simulation on the UN Security Council.
Curriculum
Important Documents
The four core modules of the degree programme concentrate on strategy, diplomacy, and the methodology of security studies. Elective Modules will deepen the knowledge of students in research areas such as German Foreign Policy, International Law, and Geoeconomics. In our broad understanding of the security challenges, environmental security, food security, and health security are also included. Courses may also be followed at our partner universities in Herzliya (Israel) or Potsdam (Germany). The entire programme is practice-oriented and requires the completion of a mandatory three-month internship in close cooperation with regional and national partners. The final stage of the programme is dedicated to the completion of a Master Thesis. Please find a detailed description of all modules in the course manual.
Suggested Course of Studies
OUR PARTNERS
Be part of our global network!
In order to provide students with a comprehensive perspective on security research, we work with partners from different countries.
Reichman University Herzliya
In close cooperation with the Lauder School of Government, Diplomacy and Strategy of the Reichman University Herzliya, we offer a selected number of students the opportunity to complete the module "Terrorism and Regional Security" in a summer programme in Herzliya (Israel). There, a great variety of courses can be chosen by students. The programme intensifies an existing cooperation between the University of Bonn and the Reichman University Herzliya.
University of Potsdam
Fraunhofer Institute
In close cooperation with the University of Potsdam (Germany), we offer a selected number of students the opportunity to complete the Partner Module "War and Conflict Studies" in the study programme of the same name at the University of Potsdam. The programme equips students with the scientific tools to analyse conflicts and political violence, hence the cooperation offers students another perspective on security issues and conflict.
The Fraunhofer Institute for Technological Trend Analysis (INT) offers courses about the relevant methodologies and tools for strategic technology foresight. By combining both theory and case studies, students gain insights into crafting (technology) scenarios, designing immersive environments, and integrating a foresight perspective into policy and strategy. The courses are led by experienced practitioners in the field of strategic foresight and aim for a dedicated practical and application orientation.
Here you will find all information about the admission requirements and the application procedure.
- Bachelor of Arts or equivalent degree acquired in Germany or abroad in Political Science
- Minimum Grade: 2,7
- Minimum of 12 ECTS in International Relations or equivalent
- Numerus Clausus 2024/25: 1,4
- More information: Examination regulations Local Numerus Clausus (German versions legally binding)
- C1 English language certificate
- according to the "Common European Framework of Reference for Language" (CEFR)
The application phase for the Winter term 2024/2025 is already over. The application phase for the Winter term 2025/26 will probably start in June 2025.
You can find detailed information about accommodation, housing, student loans and other requirements on the website of the University of Bonn and the "Bonner Studierendenwerk". Additionally, the International Office of the University of Bonn offers courses and tutoring for foreign students in Germany.
Language
All courses and all examinations will be conducted in English. For that reason, linguistic confidence is a prerequisite for the successful completion of the programme. Therefore, a C1-Level language certificate (or higher) according to the "Common European Framework of Reference for Language" (CEFR) is required.
German language skills are not a prerequisite but are recommended. Language courses will be offered by the University of Bonn to accompany the studies or as intensive courses before the start of the semester. For further information on the language courses offered by the University, please visit the website of the International Office.
In order to apply, please follow the Application Guide.
No. You can only apply for the winter semester. The next application phase for the Winter term 2025/26 will start in June 2025.
The basic requirement for the application process is a Bachelor's degree in Political Science with a minimum grade of at least 2.7, demonstrating at least 12 ECTS in International Relations and an English language certificate. There are no additional requirements.
Accepted certificates include English language studies, a fully English-language Bachelor's degree, or standardised tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge or DAAD.
The NC is a selection system based on grades. It represents the minimum grade point average (GPA) required for admission. For example, the NC in the application phase for the winter semester 2024/25 was 1.4.
Please provide your current transcript of records.
No. The application process is the same for international students and EU students. However, official translations (Apostille) may be required for international students.
No. You can only apply through the university's registration system. The programme will be activated on the registration website by June 3rd. Click here for further information.
No. There are no specific policies regarding employment during the programme. However, an internship related to the programme is required. Details can be found in the module handbook on our website.
No. The MA Strategy and International Security is a full-time degree programme.
Your Start in Bonn
All information about the start of the programme can be found here.
New students can find more information about the Opening Weeks and about various topics regarding the start of their study in Bonn. See you in October!
Perspective
Security and Strategy Research is of enormous relevance, especially in today's world. The current crises and future challenges prove the necessity to educate students in this field and show that the field has the potential to open various opportunities for graduates.
The programme is designed for students to gain academic expertise in the field of security and strategy research, and to prepare them for professional careers in a wide range of occupations. Career prospects range from foreign and intelligence services over parliaments to public administrations. Additionally, the master's programme will open perspectives in other sectors, such as think tanks, political and other foundations and public affairs agencies. Students will also be enabled to make contributions to political science in general and Security and Strategy research in particular, in order to become part of the academic community.
In order to ensure that our students are prepared properly for their future careers, the programme is shaped and carried out by experienced practitioners as well as Bonn faculty members. The internship programme is designed in close cooperation with governmental and non-governmental partner institutions. Moreover, Bonn as the German city of the United Nations (UN) and home of various national and international governmental and non-governmental organizations, as well as major companies, is a perfect location to gain practical experience.
Henry Kissinger Chair for Security and Strategy Studies
Contact Information
- Mail: msis@uni-bonn.de
- Phone: +49 (0)228/73 4401
- Homepage: Henry Kissinger Chair (Prof. Dr. Ulrich Schlie)
Adress
- 2nd Floor
- Genscherallee 3
- D-53113 Bonn
Philipp van Helden
Ilayda Durkut
Johannes Bell