International Political Economy of East Asia
The Master’s in International Political Economy of East Asia at Ruhr University Bochum is a prestigious international program designed for students seeking to deepen their expertise in the political and economic systems of China, Japan, and Korea. This full-time master’s program combines academic rigor with practical insights, equipping students with analytical, language, and research skills to navigate complex East Asian political economies. The program spans four semesters and admits students exclusively in the winter semester.
Located in Bochum, the program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and real-world applicability. Students engage in interdisciplinary study across political science, economics, and East Asian studies, with language training in Chinese, Japanese, or Korean. With opportunities for study stays or work placements in East Asia and access to international networks, the program prepares graduates for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, research, and policy-making. The course reflects Germany’s commitment to academic excellence and global relevance, making it an excellent choice for those aiming to specialize in East Asian political economy.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Bochum
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, international)
- Admission semester: Winter semester only
- Area of study: Political Science, East Asian Studies, Economics
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in East Asian Political Economy
- Introduction to East Asian Politics and Economics
- Modern East Asian Languages (Chinese, Japanese, or Korean)
- Comparative Political Economy
- Research Methods in Social Sciences
Semester 2 – Advanced Analysis & Regional Studies
- Economic and Political Institutions in East Asia
- International Trade and Finance in East Asia
- Political Economy of China, Japan, and Korea
- Seminar: Regional Case Studies
Semester 3 – Specialization & Applied Research
- Policy Analysis and Governance in East Asia
- Advanced Language and Cultural Studies
- Research Project / Fieldwork in East Asia
- Elective Modules in Economics, Politics, or Area Studies
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Final Project
- Independent Research / Thesis
- Data Analysis and Policy Evaluation
- Presentation & Academic Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Master’s in International Political Economy of East Asia are prepared for a wide range of roles in international organizations, government, research institutes, think tanks, and multinational corporations. Career paths include policy analyst, economic researcher, diplomatic officer, regional consultant, and academic researcher. With Ruhr University Bochum’s strong East Asia-focused research network and international connections, students gain excellent opportunities to engage with global institutions and regional experts.
Why Choose This Program
The Master’s in International Political Economy of East Asia offers a rigorous interdisciplinary approach, combining political science, economics, and East Asian studies. Taught entirely in English, the program equips students with advanced analytical, research, and language skills, enabling them to understand and assess the political and economic systems of China, Japan, and Korea.
Students benefit from Ruhr University Bochum’s strong regional expertise, international networks, and opportunities for study stays or work placements in East Asia. With a focus on both theoretical knowledge and applied practice, the program prepares graduates for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, research, consulting, and policy-making on a global scale.
Contact Information
Student Advisory Service – Zentrale Studienberatung (ZSB)
Universitätsstraße 150, 44801
Bochum, Germany
Tel: +49 234 32-22435
Fax: +49 234 32-14473
Email: zsb@rub.de
International Office – Ruhr University Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150, 44780
Bochum, Germany
Tel: +49 234 32-20620
Fax: +49 234 32-14684
Email: international@ruhr-uni-bochum.de
