StudyQA — Master: Tax Policy and Tax Administration — Berlin School of Economics and Law

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Tax Policy and Tax Administration is a comprehensive master's program offered by the Berlin School of Economics and Law that prepares students for a career in the fields of taxation, public finance, and fiscal policy. The program is designed to equip graduates with in-depth knowledge of national and international taxation systems, tax law, and administrative procedures, enabling them to effectively analyze and formulate tax policies that promote economic stability and social equity. Throughout the course, students will explore key topics such as revenue law, tax compliance, audit procedures, and the role of taxation in economic development. They will also gain insights into current challenges faced by tax authorities, including digital transformation, international tax cooperation, and combating tax evasion and avoidance. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical skills, featuring case studies, simulations, and internships that prepare students for real-world tasks in governmental agencies, international organizations, consulting firms, and multinational corporations. Instruction is delivered by experienced faculty members with backgrounds in law, economics, and public administration, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach to learning. The program also promotes interoperability with various disciplines by integrating principles of economics, law, and policy analysis, preparing graduates for leadership roles in tax administration and policy development. With a focus on contemporary issues and innovative solutions, graduates will be capable of designing and implementing effective tax policies that contribute to fiscal sustainability and economic fairness. Overall, the Master's in Tax Policy and Tax Administration aims to develop highly qualified professionals who can make a meaningful impact on tax systems and public finance management at both national and international levels.

Educational organisation

The programme spans 15 months, is taught in English, and begins in September in Berlin. The first two semesters will be dedicated to full-time modules, whereas the third semester will be reserved for finalising the transfer project and writing the Master's thesis in the respective home countries.
The programme is structured around 11 modules that provide fundamental skills and knowledge in the area of public finance, with particular focus on tax policy, tax legislation and tax administration. The modules are intended to facilitate the acquisition of an analytical problem-solving expertise, allowing for culturally and regionally specific factors which have the potential to support personal and career development. Creative solution-finding in a team as part of the practice-based transfer project will encourage "thinking outside the box" and, as such, promote successful project management.

Study abroad unit(s)

Study visit, Europe
Study period in South Africa

Forms of assessment

Written and oral exams, assignments, Master's thesis

Course objectives

The programme is designed to impart management and leadership skills to the students. Graduates can expect to be able to design, implement, and steer reform processes in the fields of tax policy, tax legislation and tax administration in their respective home countries. (Future) government officials will be able to manage and implement comprehensive organisational and/or modernisation reforms within their institutions through enhanced competencies in fields as varied as strategic and operational planning, project management, and leadership.

Language requirements

For non-native English speakers, proof of excellent English proficiency
The standard required is based on one of the following results in the most widely used tests: TOEFL - 550 paper-based, TOEFL - 213 computer-based, TOEFL - 79 Internet-based, BULATS - 75 or IELTS - 6.5.

Academic requirements

The following requirements must be met in order to apply for this postgraduate programme:

Minimum of a three-year full-time Bachelor's degree, preferably in economics, law, public administration, business administration, political science, or in related fields
At least one year of relevant professional work experience, preferably acquired on the African continent
For non-native English speakers, proof of excellent English proficiency (The standard required is based on one of the following results in the most widely used tests: TOEFL - 550 (paper-based), TOEFL - 213 (computer-based), TOEFL - 79 (Internet-based), BULATS - 75 or IELTS - 6.5.)

Applicants who can provide proof that they have acquired very good English skills through their undergraduate studies or job activities in English can provide proof of their English language skills within the scope of the interview.
Candidates will be selected on the basis of previous academic performance, seriousness of purpose and professional work experience in Africa.

Enrolment fees

Approx. 300 EUR (subject to change without notice) per semester cover fees for the student services organisation and student parliament groups as well as the cost of a semester ticket, which allows students to use the Berlin Public Transport (BVG) for six months.

Costs of living

The cost of living in Berlin is estimated at approx. 850 EUR per month. This includes rent in a student residence hall (private accommodation costs from 300 to 600 EUR per month), living expenses, health insurance, books and materials, and incidental expenses.