German and Politics MA (Hons)

What makes this degree stand out is how much you’ll learn by doing. From day one, you’ll go far beyond classroom learning — interviewing native German speakers, analysing real political debates, and applying what you study in hands-on ways. The highlight of your experience is a full year abroad in a German-speaking country, where you’ll live, study, or work and use your language skills every single day. It’s an unforgettable way to grow as a communicator, gain cultural confidence, and see how politics works in different parts of the world.

You’ll also benefit from Edinburgh’s outstanding learning environment — from one of the UK’s best German literature collections and unique political science resources, to digital media tools and dedicated study spaces. Here’s how your learning becomes real and practical throughout the degree:

• Real-world communication from Year 1: Interview a German-speaking professional in Edinburgh or Glasgow as part of your language course — a chance to practise real conversations and understand how language is used in professional life.

•  Transformative year abroad: Spend your third year in a German-speaking country, studying at a partner university or gaining work experience. If you take a work placement, you’ll also complete two in-depth essays in politics under Edinburgh’s guidance.

• Guidance every step of the way: A dedicated Year Abroad Office and language coordinators will support you with placements, academic planning, and staying connected to Edinburgh while you’re overseas.

•  World-class resources: Explore over 95,000 German books and 5,400 journals in the University Library, plus the unique Karin McPherson Collection focused on East German literature and culture.

•  Modern digital learning: Use multimedia tools, online platforms, and e-learning resources to improve your German and engage with political texts, films, and media.

•  Interactive teaching: Learn through seminars, tutorials, and group projects where you’ll give presentations in German, debate political issues, and even create podcasts, video essays, or visual projects.

•  Career-ready experience: Choose from work placements or volunteering opportunities abroad — including British Council language assistant roles — to build your professional network and gain valuable experience before you graduate.

A degree in German and Politics from the University of Edinburgh opens doors to exciting global careers. With fluency in one of Europe’s most influential languages and a strong grasp of political systems and ideas, you’ll be equipped for roles that shape policy, connect cultures, and drive change. Our graduates go on to careers such as diplomat or foreign service officer, policy analyst, translator or communications specialist, and international development officer, working in government, NGOs, media, and multinational organisations.

Here’s how Edinburgh helps you turn your degree into a successful future:

• Expert career support: The University’s award-winning Careers Service offers personalised guidance, CV and interview coaching, employer networking events, and exclusive internship opportunities — and continues to support you for up to two years after graduation.

• Strong outcomes: Edinburgh graduates are consistently among the most employable in the UK, with many going straight into skilled roles or further study within months of finishing their degree.

• Powerful networks: You’ll benefit from the connections of both the School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures (LLC) and the School of Social and Political Science (SPS) — giving you access to academic experts, guest speakers, and organisations across politics, government, and culture.

• Career versatility: The combination of political insight and language fluency is highly valued by employers across sectors — from diplomacy, public policy, and journalism to translation, education, and global business.

• Global edge: Your year abroad and intercultural experience give you an advantage in international organisations and roles where global awareness and communication skills are essential.

Further Academic Progression:
Many graduates choose to continue their studies with a master’s degree in areas such as International Relations, European Studies, Public Policy, Translation Studies, or Political Theory. You could also pursue doctoral research or specialised postgraduate pathways focused on European politics, cultural diplomacy, or language and society, deepening your expertise and opening doors to academic or policy leadership roles.