- Degree
- Master of Arts in Contemporary Human Geography
- Course location
- Trier
- Teaching language
- • English
- Languages
- Core modules are held in English (100%). Free electives (20 ECTS) can comprise modules from other departments in the university, where courses may be taught in German and/or other languages (i.e. foreign language courses). Teaching and administrative staff may be able to support students in other languages such as German and/or French, but this is not guaranteed.
- Programme duration
- 4 semesters
- Beginning
- Winter and summer semester
- Additional information on beginning, duration and mode of study
- Admission is generally valid for two subsequent semesters. Applicants from countries requiring a visa for entering Germany should consider applying until 15 January for beginning their studies in the winter semester of the same year, giving them more time to complete the visa process and to prepare their stay.
- Application deadline
- Non-EU citizens:
• 15 January 2026 for the summer semester 2026 (admission also valid for the winter semester 2026/27)
• 31 May 2026 for the winter semester 2026/27 (admission also valid for the summer semester 2027)
German citizens, EU citizens, and applicants with a BA or MA degree from a German university:
• 15 March 2026 for the summer semester 2026 (admission also valid for the winter semester 2026/27)
• 15 September 2026 for the winter semester 2026/27 (admission also valid for the summer semester 2027)
- Tuition fees per semester in EUR
- None
- Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
- No
- Joint degree / double degree programme
- No
- Description/content
- The Contemporary Human Geography Master's programme is designed to foster advanced critical analysis of complex spatial issues, equipping students with the expertise needed to engage with the evolving geographies of our dynamic world.
The foundational modules emphasise critical thinking and analytical skills in relation to key geographical concepts and methodological approaches. Specialist modules further advance both thematic knowledge and research capabilities. These modules encourage students to apply their learning in innovative ways, preparing them to contribute original insights to ongoing debates in their chosen fields. Alongside academic growth, students will also enhance essential transferable skills such as independent research, teamwork, and communication.
By the end of the programme, students will have mastered the ability to design and execute sophisticated research projects, including via their Master’s thesis. They will develop the intellectual and practical skills to critically evaluate their findings and propose meaningful, real-world solutions to pressing geographical challenges. Practical experience gained through internships in relevant work environments will further refine their professional expertise, enhancing their readiness for careers in academia, research, policy-making, and industry.
Students are able to select from one of two pathways for their Master's degree.
•
Pathway I – Space, Power & Change: This pathway focuses on the spatial relationships between communities, cultures, economies, and their interactions with the environment. It covers a wide range of critical concepts, such as governance, environmental justice, alternative economies, and identity, supported by applied case studies in fields like sustainable development.
•
Pathway II – Tourism & Leisure: This pathway explores the spatial dynamics of tourism, examining how tourism impacts and is influenced by place, culture, economy, and environment. Students will engage with key concepts such as tourist economy, digitalisation, social aspects of tourism, destination management and sustainability of tourism. Through case studies and applied research, this pathway prepares students for roles in tourism management, policy, and administration, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and ethical practices in tourism development.