The compulsory modules give you a solid foundation of development economics on which you can build your individual specialisation. You will gain knowledge of the basic problems and solution approaches of development economics, as well as the socioeconomics of rural development and food security. Furthermore, you will also receive an introduction to quantitative analysis methods.

In the compulsory elective segment, you will deepen the basic knowledge in development economics that you acquired in the first two semesters. You will receive an introduction to quantitative analysis methods by taking one of two modules, Econometrics I or Econometrics II. Apart from that, you can choose one mandatory module from a selection ranging from Economics of Crime to Games in Development Economics. This module has to be a seminar. In addition, you can choose five modules from a wide selection of courses in the field of economics related to development economics as well as all modules in the field of quantitative methods.

This section allows you to choose between two specialisations:

• The specialisation in quantitative economics teaches you theoretical and empirical concepts of development economics and enables you to analyse international development policy with political-economic theories and empirical methods.


• The specialisation in agricultural economics familiarises you with empirical, quantitative methods in rural development economics as well as the most important models for explaining international trade in agricultural products and enables you to evaluate rural development projects and regulations.

In the elective area, you can freely choose from the modules offered by the Faculty of Business and Economics or select courses from the Master's programme "Sustainable International Agriculture" (SIA) offered by the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences. Additionally, you have the option to take selected modules on topics such as Machine Learning, Big Data Analytics, or Business Law. This allows you to not only deepen your personal interests but also refine your profile for your future career. Furthermore, you may be eligible to receive credit for an external internship in the elective area under certain conditions.

The thesis marks the pinnacle of your academic studies, providing you with the opportunity to apply your acquired knowledge in practical settings. Throughout this process, you will utilize all the skills honed during your studies, including research methods, critical thinking, and the ability to work independently on a specific topic. You will access real-world data and employ both quantitative and qualitative methods to derive well-founded insights. This approach will grant you comprehensive practical experience, ultimately completing your academic journey.

Well-trained professionals on the ground are the best guarantee for a better future with less poverty, more education, and improved health for all. That's why numerous organizations support the training of professionals from the Global South

The DAAD EPOS scholarship is a development-oriented postgraduate study program by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), which promotes the training of specialists from developing and newly industrialized countries. Under this program, the University of Göttingen offers seven to eight scholarships each year to students from developing countries.

Learn more about the DAAD EPOS scholarship.

There are numerous ways to finance studies in Germany, including scholarships, short-term grants, subsidies, or work. Here you will find tips and contacts.

• Recommended study plan (Charts)


• New-enrolment or re-enrolment


• Mailing list for economics students (information on teaching offers; job advertisements of economics Chairs etc.)


• Information for new international students


• Scholarships and funding for international students