Transition Management
The Master of Science in Transition Management is an international graduate program that focuses on the economic, political, and environmental transformations occurring in transition countries. Designed for students seeking to understand complex societal change, the program combines academic depth with practical relevance, emphasizing interdisciplinary learning across social sciences, economics, agriculture, and environmental studies. Structured over four semesters and offered exclusively in the winter semester, it provides a comprehensive foundation for analyzing and managing transformation processes.
Located in Gießen and developed in cooperation with international partner institutions, the program offers a strong blend of theoretical knowledge and applied project work. Students learn to assess transition dynamics, develop policy strategies, and work effectively in intercultural teams. With its international orientation and research-based curriculum, the program prepares graduates to contribute to sustainable development and institutional change in transition economies.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Gießen
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time, international)
- Admission semester: Winter semester only
- Area of study: Agricultural Science, Environmental Protection, Transition Studies
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Transition Studies
- Introduction to Transition Economics
- Political Transformation and Governance
- Social Change in Transition Countries
- Research Methods in Social and Economic Sciences
Semester 2 – Applied Transition Management
- Agricultural and Environmental Policy
- Economic Development Strategies
- Conflict Resolution and Institutional Change
- Project Work I: Case Studies in Transition Countries
Semester 3 – Specialization & Field Practice
- Sustainability and Resource Management
- Regional Development and Policy Analysis
- International Cooperation and Development
- Project Work II: Applied International Project
Semester 4 – Master's Thesis
- Independent Research Thesis
- Presentation & Academic Defense
Career Opportunities
Graduates are well-prepared for careers in governmental agencies, development organizations, NGOs, economic institutions, and environmental or agricultural policy sectors. The interdisciplinary training also opens pathways to international cooperation roles and policy consulting. Additionally, the program provides a strong academic foundation for students who wish to pursue doctoral studies or research-oriented careers.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Master of Science in Transition Management means joining a program designed to address some of the most urgent challenges in global development. Through its interdisciplinary curriculum, the program connects economic, political, social, and environmental perspectives to provide a comprehensive understanding of transformation processes.
Students benefit from an international study environment, collaborative project work, and close partnerships with institutions in transition countries. This combination of academic knowledge and real-world application equips graduates with the skills and insight needed to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development and global policy change.
Contact Information
Student Advisory Service – Zentrale Studienberatung (ZSB)
Goethestraße 58
35390 Gießen, Germany
Tel: 0641 / 99-16223
Fax: 0641 / 99-16229
Email: zsb@uni-giessen.de
Programme Contact – Institute of Agricultural Policy and Market Research
Senckenbergstr. 3 (Zeughaus)
35390 Gießen, Germany
Email: contact-transition@zeu.uni-giessen.de
Name: Prof. Dr. Martin Petrick
International Office – Akademisches Auslandsamt
Goethestraße 58
35390 Gießen, Germany
Tel: 0641 / 99-12137
Fax: 0641 / 99-12138
Email: internationales@admin.uni-giessen.de
