Politics, Philosophy and Economics

I've often wondered where I come from, where I'm going and what "binds creation's inmost energies". I'm interested in economics - but not the kind that is limited exclusively to mathematics, strives for profit and with its complex needs for simple cost/benefit analyses, and leaves people out.

I've always wondered why it is always economists who tell us about crises in the media and philosophers are never asked for a solution. Whether our politicians have ever read Hobbes, Marx, or Kierkegaard. I don't want to choose between a world of numbers, one of words, or of deeds.

I long for answers to the questions about the equitable co-existence of fair trade and fair society reforms, and I often only find criticism of the suggestions posed by thinkers and philosophers. I'm interested in politics as a practical tool of reason and am fascinated by the differences of cultures that clash with the globalisation of economies.

I also wonder if there is an economic system that doesn't, in the long term, destroy the planet. Maybe there is a different approach that brings prosperity for all and is an alternative to what we already have.

I want to learn how to resolve conflicts and to debate. I do not just want to simply express my views; I want to steadily develop them. I want to have very broad horizons. That is why I am going to be a universal scholar of our time and study Politics, Philosophy and Economics at Karlshochschule.

Educational organisation

The modules focusing on political, ecological and sociocultural topics are: Global Economy, Cultural Studies, Introduction in Philosophy, Introduction in Political Science, Sustainable Development, Political Philosophy, Introduction in Strategic Practice, Foreign Policy Analysis, Area Studies, Anthropology, Conflict Resolution, International Collaboration, Contemporary Society, Economic Institutionalism, Justice, and Human and Constitutional Rights.

All modules have been designed to teach students to work and communicate successfully in an international field of work, especially in strategic, leadership, and consulting functions. The programme is regarded to be a good preparation for assignments in politics, business, social work, think tanks, journalism and many branches of the public services, including the civil and diplomatic services and local government.

Study abroad unit(s)

In the fourth semester, the students go abroad for one semester, in order to test and apply the knowledge they have acquired in a foreign culture. This experience makes them even more appealing to employers.

The university has established cooperation agreements with partner universities so that all the modules can be completed at a university abroad without any loss of time. During the semester abroad, students have the opportunity to discover another country, benefit from cross-cultural exchanges, and broaden their horizons. Thus, they greatly increase their chances of successfully finding a job after graduation.

Internships

At the end of your Bachelor's studies, you will have to pass a practical phase. During these three to six months, you will prove your knowledge and enthusiasm under real circumstances - and you might develop your Bachelor's thesis. With great contacts in different areas, we will help you to find an internship.

Forms of assessment

Exams, presentations, term papers, projects

Language requirements

English proficiency:
Level C1 or above according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) or IELTS of 6.5 or above or Internet-based TOEFL score of at least 100 points unless English is your native language

Academic requirements

To study as an international student at Karlshochschule International University, you must have a university entrance qualification that allows you to study in Germany. Furthermore, we emphasise your English language skills and something very special: you! Here we focus on your experiences, your character, and your personal qualifications.

Enrolment fees

All students pay 68 EUR per semester to the Karlsruhe Student Union.

Costs of living

Rent at a hall of residence or shared flat: 260-350 EUR
Health insurance: 65 EUR
Food: 160 EUR
Miscellaneous (books, computer, leisure, etc.): at least 120 EUR

Arrival support

• Advice on accommodation for students
• Assistance with student visas and residence permits
• Introduction days at the beginning of the study programme
• Pick-up service from Karlsruhe train station

Services and support for international students

Integrating and supporting our students is our top priority. This involves close contact with professors as well as a service-oriented, accessible administration and academic offices.

We offer:

• Programmes instructed in English
• German and English language courses at different levels
• German culture classes
• Academic counselling
• Open-door policy of professors
• Assistance with the application procedure
• Advice on accommodation for students
• Assistance with student visas and residence permits
• Counselling on financing and scholarship programmes
• Counselling on internship applications
• Assistance with practical matters and organisation of leisure activities by the International Office and student advisers
• Introduction days at the beginning of the study programme
• Excursions and extra activities with professors
• Specific events and excursions for international students, e.g. to Heidelberg, Strasbourg or Berlin
• Pick-up service from Karlsruhe train station
• Online platform for international students