Labour Policies and Globalisation
The Master of Arts in Labour Policies and Globalisation is an internationally renowned graduate program offered by the University of Kassel in cooperation with the Berlin School of Economics and embedded within the Global Labour University (GLU) network. This intensive one-year programme is designed for candidates with backgrounds in labour movements, social justice activism, or economic and social policy who wish to strengthen their academic and professional expertise. Bringing together perspectives from political science, sociology, law, and economics, the programme equips students to analyse globalisation and labour challenges in a multidisciplinary context. Admission is offered exclusively for the winter semester.
Based in Kassel, the programme offers a highly multicultural learning environment with participants and lecturers from developing, transition, and industrialised countries. Students engage in advanced discussions on sustainable development, labour standards, trade union strategies, economic governance, and global institutions. With strong ties to international organisations, trade unions, and partner universities worldwide — including the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa — the programme provides unique opportunities for global academic collaboration and professional networking. Supported by the ILO and major foundations, Labour Policies and Globalisation is one of the most distinctive and globally connected programmes in the field.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Standard period of study: 2 semesters
- Location: Kassel
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, international)
- Admission semester: Winter semester only
- Area of study: Political Science, Sociology, Social Science
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Global Labour Studies
- International Labour Standards & Institutions
- Political Economy of Globalisation
- Trade Unions, Collective Bargaining & Social Dialogue
- Labour Rights, Sustainability & Global Governance
Semester 2 – Applied Research & International Practice
- Comparative Labour Policies
- Development Strategies & Social Justice
- Project Work with Labour or Social Organisations
- Master’s Thesis
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this programme are prepared for impactful roles in international organisations, trade unions, NGOs, research institutes, governmental institutions, and policy advisory bodies. Career paths include labour policy analyst, trade union officer, social justice advocate, development consultant, researcher in political economy, and advisor on labour rights and sustainable development.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Master of Arts in Labour Policies and Globalisation means joining one of the world’s most distinctive academic programmes dedicated to labour rights, equitable development, and international policy. As part of the Global Labour University (GLU), the programme is developed and supported by universities, trade unions, and labour organisations across the world, offering an unparalleled blend of academic depth and real-world engagement.
Students learn in a diverse international environment, participate in global labour dialogues, and connect directly with practitioners shaping labour policy today. With opportunities for joint or double degrees, research collaborations, and international exchanges, the programme provides a challenging yet deeply rewarding pathway for those committed to advancing social justice at the global level.
Contact Information
University of Kassel – Student Advisory Service
Moritzstraße 18
34127 Kassel, Germany
Tel: +49 561 804-2205
Email: studieren@uni-kassel.de
Programme Contact – Abteilung Studium und Lehre
Mönchebergstraße 19
34109 Kassel, Germany
Tel: +49 561 804-2205
Fax: +49 561 804-7202
Email: studieren@uni-kassel.de
International Office – University of Kassel
Moritzstraße 18
34127 Kassel, Germany
Tel: +49 561 804-2103
Email: international-office@uni-kassel.de
