Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance)
Objectives of the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme
The Helmut-Schmidt-Programme is designed to further qualify future leaders in politics, law, economics and administration according to the principles of Good Governance and to prepare them in a praxis-oriented course for their professional life. Very good graduates with a first university degree get the chance to obtain a master’s degree in disciplines that are of special relevance to the social, political and economic development of their home country. The knowledge and experience acquired in Germany should enable the scholarship holders to later contribute to the establishment of democratically oriented economic and social systems aimed at overcoming social differences. In addition, the training at German institutions of higher education should qualify the scholarship holders to become partners in the political and economic co-operation with Germany. With this programme, DAAD intends to contribute to the support of good governance and civil society structures in selected partner countries and regions.
M.A. Development Studies

As one of only eight institutions of higher learning in Germany, the University of Passau and its Master in Development Studies joined the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme network in 2020. It is next to the Master in Governance and Public Policy the second Master at the University of Passau that benefits from this prestigious programme.
The study programme Development Studies (M.A.) has a two-year-curriculum and is entirely taught in English. It enables students to develop the advanced knowledge, analytical skills and conceptual frameworks required to understand and navigate the complexities of economic and social development. The programme addresses the worldwide need for experts in the expanding field of development research as well as for project managers in international development cooperation. Students enrolled in the programme gain insights into the economic, social, ethical, and cultural contexts and constraints of development. The programme provides outstanding opportunities to put theory into practice through international field research, with a strong focus on integrating quantitative and qualitative methods.
The Scholarship
Study Programme
- Preparatory German language course of 6 months (April to September)
- 2 years master programme in Governance and Public Policy
- Additional support by the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme team and extracurricular activities
Benefits
- Monthly scholarship rate of 850€
- Health insurance
- Travel allowances
- Study and research subsidies