| Qualification offered | Certificate |
|---|---|
| Duration and credits | 10 ECTS credits (300 hours) |
| Language | English and, if desired, German |
| Learning format | On campus in Passau, online, or at selected partner locations |
| Costs | 4,900 euros |
| Start | Spring and Autumn 2026 (kick-off weekend for the spring launch on 17–19/04/2026 and for the autumn launch on 23-25/10/2026) |
In a world of increasing geopolitical complexity, cultural interdependence, and disruptive global challenges we need professionals and leaders who possess international expertise, intercultural sensitivity, and strategic vision.
With the new certificate programme ‘Global Affairs and Intercultural Relations’ the University of Passau empowers participants to navigate complex global challenges with strategic, intercultural, and legal competence. In six interdisciplinary modules, participants explore global trade and governance, intercultural management and negotiation, international law, and geopolitical interdependencies – including a case-based focus on Brussels as a European hub. Historical and cultural perspectives provide essential context for understanding global affairs.
In addition, the programme offers the opportunity to build or expand a career-relevant international network. Experienced experts, such as high-ranking diplomats from the Federal Foreign Office, including numerous alumni of the University of Passau, are involved as guest lecturers. This ensures that theory and practice are closely interlinked.
After completing the certificate “Global Affairs and Intercultural Relations”, participants will be able to:
| Content | Module 1 equips participants with tools to manage cultural differences, optimize decision-making, and leverage diverse stakeholder perspectives for strategic success.
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|---|---|
| Workload | 2 ECTS (60 hrs, 12 hrs in presence) |
| Examination | Portfolio |
| Content | Module 2 stresses that despite growing disruptions – from great-power rivalry to renationalization – global economic ties and shared threats still demand cooperative strategies amidst a transforming world order.
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|---|---|
| Workload | 2 ECTS (60 hrs; 10 hrs in presence, 4 hrs online) |
| Examination | Written exam (2 hrs = 120 min): open book exam, in presence or via electronic platform |
| Content | Module 3 encourages participants to reflect on the diplomatic strategies pursued by Germany and the EU to date in an increasingly volatile and less predictable world. |
|---|---|
| Workload | 2 ECTS (60 hrs, 14,5 hrs in presence) |
| Examination | Portfolio (including final presentation and oral exam) |
| Content | Module 4 highlights the need of a new strategy for Germany‘s export-oriented economy in light of China‘s aggressive subsidies and geopolitical competition, which is reshaping global trade dynamics. |
|---|---|
| Workload | 2 ECTS (60 hrs, 16 hrs in presence) |
| Examination | Portfolio |
| Content | Module 5 provides insight into global power relations during a stay in Brussels. The European capital is analysed both from a critical geopolitical perspective and from the perspective of global cities. |
|---|---|
| Workload | 2 ECTS (60 hrs) |
| Examination | Portfolio |
| Content | Module 6 offers cultural and historical perspectives to understand our interconnected, multipolar world, focusing on transcultural dynamics that challenge Eurocentric views and analyzing political structures like empires, nations, and alliances. |
|---|---|
| Workload | 2 ECTS (60 hrs, 12 hrs in presence) |
| Examination | Portfolio |
This programme is particularly suitable for professionals and leaders in globally operating companies, at consultancies, NGOs, international organisations or in public administration.
Entry requirements:
10 months (kick-off weekend for the spring launch on 17–19/04/2026 and for the autumn launch on 23-25/10/2026; 4-5 workshop weekends in Passau, one in Brussels, online evening sessions)
If you’d like us keep you informed of this upcoming programme, please register by clicking the button below.
Zukunft: Karriere und Kompetenzen (ZKK)
