Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance)

Objectives of the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme

The aim of the programme is to further qualify future leaders from the areas of politics, law, business and administration based on the principles of good governance, and to prepare them for their future professional activities in a practice-oriented manner. Highly qualified graduates who have obtained a first higher education degree are offered the opportunity to obtain a master's degree in subjects that are particularly significant with regard to social, political and economic development in their countries of origin. The skills and experiences gained in Germany will enable the funded individuals to contribute to establishing economic and social forms that are democratically-oriented and designed to overcome social inequalities in their home countries. With the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme, the DAAD strives to contribute to promoting good governance and civil society structures in developing and emerging countries.

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

Preceding German language course in Germany (or digitally in the country of origin, depending on the latest pandemic regulations), usually lasting 6 months (April to September)
2 years master programme in Development Studies
Additional support by the Helmut-Schmidt-Programme team and extracurricular activities

Benefits

Monthly scholarship rate of 861€
Health insurance cover in Germany
Appropriate travel allowances
A study and research grant