Economics

Economics at the University of Konstanz offers a comprehensive and rigorous academic program designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in business, government, research, and beyond. The program provides a solid foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics, quantitative methods, and econometrics, enabling students to analyze complex economic issues critically and effectively. Students are encouraged to develop their analytical skills, economic reasoning, and problem-solving abilities through a combination of theoretical coursework and practical application. The curriculum encompasses various specialization areas, including international economics, labor economics, environmental economics, and financial economics, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals. The program emphasizes the importance of empirical research and data analysis, equipping students with the necessary skills to interpret economic data and contribute to policy development and economic decision-making. In addition to a strong theoretical background, students gain hands-on experience through project work, internships, and research opportunities facilitated by the university’s strong links with industry and research institutions. The international environment at the University of Konstanz fosters intercultural understanding and global perspectives, which are crucial in today’s interconnected world. Faculty members are renowned experts in their fields, delivering high-quality education and conducting cutting-edge research. The program prepares graduates for further academic pursuits or immediate entry into the job market, where they can contribute to economic policy, business strategy, or academic research. Graduates of the Economics program at the University of Konstanz are well-equipped with the knowledge, skills, and analytical tools needed to succeed in dynamic and competitive environments.

Educational organisation

The Department of Economics offers two preparatory courses in October before the start of your first semester. These courses are targeted to students who want to brush up their knowledge in quantitative methods and advanced econometrics.
In the first semester, students take the compulsory courses Advanced Econometrics, Advanced Macroeconomics I, and Advanced Microeconomics I.
In the second and third semesters, optional courses amounting to 48 ECTS credits and one seminar per semester must be completed. Students chose from the following areas: Econometrics and Applied Economics, International Financial Economics, Macroeconomics and International Economics, Microeconomics and Decision-Making, or Public Economics.
The fourth semester is devoted to the Master's thesis.
Following the second semester, particularly qualified candidates have the opportunity to be admitted to the doctoral programme in Quantitative Economics and Finance at the University of Konstanz or to the Graduate School of Decision Sciences. For further information, please visit:
http://www.uni-konstanz.de/econdoc
http://www.gsds.uni-konstanz.de

Study abroad unit(s)

We recommend that participants spend a semester abroad at one of our partner universities.

Internships

We recommend that students complete an internship of two months during the third semester or spend a semester studying abroad.

Forms of assessment

Students take written exams for courses. For seminars, students complete a presentation and an essay.

Course objectives

Graduates of the programme are awarded the degree Master of Science (MSc) in Economics.
Our graduates are prepared for exceptional careers in national and multinational companies, management consultancies, banks or insurance companies, government institutions, and international organisations. Furthermore, our programme is particularly suitable for applicants who wish to pursue a doctoral degree and move on to an academic career.

Language requirements

For applicants whose mother tongue is not English, proof of English proficiency via one of the following tests must be provided:
Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency (minimum grade C)
IELTS (minimum band 6.5)
TOEFL (minimum score 92 Internet-based points, 237 computer-based points or 580 paper-based points)
or an equivalent proof of English proficiency

Academic requirements

Applicants must have an above-average grade in a Bachelor's degree from a recognised university with a standard minimum study period of three years. The Bachelor's degree can be in any discipline that provides sufficient quantitative background, e.g., economics, business administration, mathematics, statistics, or natural sciences.

Enrolment fees

Students currently pay a student welfare fee of 60 EUR and an administration fee of 80 EUR per semester.

Costs of living

Approx. 660 EUR per month to cover personal expenses.

Job opportunities

Students have the possibility of working as student assistants in the Department of Economics.

Funding opportunities within the university

Scholarships are available for particularly suitable Master's students, who may be admitted to our doctoral programme in Quantitative Economics and Finance or to the Graduate School of Decision Sciences after the first year of study in our Master's programme.

Arrival support

The International Office and the Language Institute (Sprachlehrinstitut) offer orientation on living in Konstanz, German academic culture, and language courses for newcomers to make it easier for you to settle into your new surroundings.

Special options for students with a basic knowledge of the German language:

• Intensive German language courses
• Orientation programmes
• Kon'Start - Study preparation for German and international degree-seeking students
• CheckIn-Office - Service point for new arrivals (six weeks prior to lecture period)

The Welcome Centre at the University of Konstanz supports doctoral/PhD students from abroad, visiting scientists and researchers, postdocs, and newly appointed professors - and, being a family-friendly university, their families as well - in the planning, preparation, and realisation of their stay in Konstanz. It also provides information and specifically targeted assistance in all non-academic, extracurricular fields.

Services and support for international students

We will not leave you to fend for yourself! We advise and inform students individually and in groups, organise orientation days and visits, provide information on study and career choices, and offer courses on study skills.

Central Student Advisory Service
Phone: +49 (0) 75 31-88 36 36
E-mail: Studienberatung@uni-konstanz.de

The International Office and the Language Institute (Sprachlehrinstitut) offer general orientation and language courses for newcomers to make it easier for you to settle into your new surroundings.

International Office
Phone: +49 (0) 75 31-88 30 89
E-mail: international@uni-konstanz.de

Accommodation

Students have the possibility of living in the residence halls of the University of Konstanz. For further information on student accommodation, please see:
http://www.seezeit.com

Private accommodation in Konstanz can also be found via the following websites:
http://www.konstanz-unterkunft.de
http://www.vierwaen.de
http://www.suedkurier.de