Public Economics, Law and Politics

Public Economics, Law and Politics at Leuphana University of Lüneburg is an interdisciplinary master's program designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions between economic principles, legal frameworks, and political processes. The program aims to provide graduates with the analytical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to address pressing societal challenges related to public policy, governance, and social justice. Students will explore core topics such as fiscal policy, government regulation, institutional law, democratic processes, and ethical considerations in public decision-making. The curriculum combines rigorous training in economic analysis with legal reasoning and political theory, fostering a holistic approach to public issues. Emphasis is placed on both normative and empirical research methods, enabling students to evaluate policy proposals critically and to develop innovative solutions based on empirical data. The program also encourages an international perspective, addressing global challenges like climate change, migration, and economic inequality from multiple disciplinary viewpoints. Through a blend of lectures, seminars, case studies, and practical projects, students gain hands-on experience in policy analysis, legal interpretation, and political strategy. The program prepares graduates for careers in public administration, non-governmental organizations, research institutions, and international agencies, where they can contribute to effective and equitable public policies. Additionally, students have opportunities to network with practitioners and policymakers, attend conferences, and participate in internships. By the end of the program, students will have developed a nuanced understanding of how economic, legal, and political factors interact to shape public decision-making processes, and will be equipped with the skills necessary to influence policy in various societal contexts. The interdisciplinary nature of the program reflects Leuphana’s commitment to innovative and sustainable approaches to societal development, fostering critical thinking, ethical awareness, and a commitment to public service.

Educational organisation

The programme consists of lectures, seminars, small-group discussions and tutorials. The first semester offers two basic modules where students can broaden their knowledge either in the field of economics and/or politics and/or law, depending on their level of education in those fields. From semester one to three, individual choices can be made according to the programme guidelines. Students are also involved in research projects in their area of specialisation right from the outset and work with their tutors on research activities of their own. The Master's thesis is written during the fourth semester. All Master's students follow a compulsory additional element termed Complementary Studies, where graduate students from various academic disciplines study together. This humanistic approach is aimed at enabling students to develop subject-specific and transferable skills beyond their area of specialisation.

Study abroad unit(s)

Participants are encouraged to spend one semester - preferably the third - abroad. The International Office at Leuphana University of Lüneburg provides all necessary information.
See: https://www.leuphana.de/international-office

Internships

None

Forms of assessment

• Invigilated written examinations
• Oral examinations
• Extensive term paper
• Combined scientific work
• Attainment of practical skills
• Master's thesis

Course objectives

Students should acquire theoretical, methodological and practical fundamentals of public economics, law and politics and should be able to analyse and interpret state activities and their interaction in the realm of economics and law. Students will be prepared for a career in national and supranational organisations, in administration, in federal and local governments, as well as in research institutions and think tanks.

Language requirements

The Master's programme Public Economics, Law & Politics is conducted in English.

Non-native speakers of English have to prove their English language proficiency:

• an Internet-based TOEFL test with at least 85 points (TOEFL ITP is not recognised)
• a TOEIC Test (at least 785 points (listening and reading))
• IELTS 5.5
• a Cambridge Advanced Certificate of English (CAE) with Grade A to C
• modules from a university programme comprising at least 30 CP, taught exclusively in English and with exams taken in English
• a successfully completed study programme in English
• a certificate from an English-speaking school qualifying for entry into higher education in the respective country. References older than four years cannot be accepted.

Academic requirements

• Bachelor's degree, German First State Exam in law studies (or equivalent), comprising a study period of at least three years and/or an amount of at least 180 credit points;

For a detailed list of requirements, see: http://www.leuphana.de/master-apply

Enrolment fees

Approx. 360 EUR per semester (subject to change)
Fee includes a semester ticket, covering public transport in Lüneburg and the surrounding area (e.g. Hamburg, Bremen, Lübeck) and almost all regional trains in Lower Saxony, plus rent-a-bike and free entrance to many cultural events in Lüneburg.

Costs of living

Approx. 900 EUR per month to cover personal expenses:

• Accommodation: 350-450 EUR
• Food: 180-250 EUR
• Health insurance: 80 EUR (not applicable to EU students)
• Leisure activities, books, clothing: 120-200 EUR

Job opportunities

International students with a residence permit are allowed to undertake a limited amount of paid employment (max. 120 days per year, alternatively 240 days part-time up to four hours a day).

Arrival support

The International Office offers an orientation programme for all international students before the start of every semester.
Students will receive assistance with all formalities, e.g. the registration with local authorities, and will be introduced to the services and facilities provided by Leuphana University of Lüneburg, e.g. enrolment, course choice and registration, sports facilities.

Services and support for international students

At Leuphana University, there are a number of services for students, like the Student Counselling and Advisory Service, Social and Legal Counselling, Psychological Counselling, Writing Centre, Studying with children etc. Additionally, the International Office provides advisory and social activities especially for international students. International student advisers and tutors will support the students during their stay. Furthermore, a variety of excursions and cultural events are offered. All international students are invited to reflect on their study progress in a confidential meeting at least once during each stage. In addition, extensive support is provided by faculty and staff of Leuphana Graduate School.

Accommodation

Websites and relevant addresses for finding accommodation in Lüneburg are listed on the International Office website. See: https://www.leuphana.de/international-office