Application and admission (MA) #
Who can apply? #
Applicants need to have a Bachelor degree in Geography or a neighboring discipline (Source: ZSP HU, https://www.hu-berlin.de/de/studium/bewerbung/lesefassung_zsp). Neighboring disciplines are for example Regional Sciences, Urban Sociology, City Planning, Spatial Planning.
I do not speak German at all or only understand the basics. Should I apply for this Masters program? #
The program is taught in German. A certificate of German language proficiency of at least TestDaF 3 or a C2 level on the Common European Frame of Reference is required to be eligible (see: Application procedure – 3.3.2 Language requirements).
We do offer a Master program taught in englisch but with very different topcis. See here: Master Global Change Geography.
How can I apply? #
Application is organized centrally via an online application system: Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin - Onlinebewerbung-Statusabfrage. Please be aware of the deadlines. The program is ‚zulassungsbeschränkt‘. Admission is opened only for the winter term and the deadline is therefore regularly in May. Current deadlines are found here: https://www.hu-berlin.de/en/studies/admission/calendar
Details regarding an applications from an University abroad are given from the central Compass Hotline. You will find details here: Information for Prospective International Students.
I have a professional qualification in a subject other than Geography. Can I still apply? #
In principle, yes. Graduates of a degree program in Geography or a closely related subject are eligible for admission. For orientation, related subjects may include Regional Studies, Urban Sociology, Urban Planning, and Spatial Planning. In such cases, admission is subject to an individual assessment of the applicant’s completed modules. This assessment is carried out by the central admissions office after the application has been submitted. The criteria are:
Level of qualification of the previous degree (final grade) — weighting: 80 percent
Qualifications acquired outside of higher education: Professional experience of 900 hours within the last 3 years, e.g., work in the real estate sector, economic development, or planning — weighting: 20 percent (Source: Fachspezifische Zulassungsregeln Urbane Geographien)
I am already enrolled in a master’s program at another university and would like to transfer to the Urban Geographies program. Is that possible? What do I need to do? #
Transferring into a higher semester is generally possible. To do so, you must also apply via the online application system of the Central Student Administration: Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin - Onlinebewerbung-Statusabfrage.
Placement into the appropriate semester is determined by comparing the modules you have already completed with the requirements of our master’s program. This evaluation is carried out by the Central Student Administration. For orientation, you can find our program structure and descriptions of the compulsory modules here: Master Urbane Geographien - Module und idealtypischer Studienverlaufsplan.
I did not obtain my degree from a German university. What do I need to consider when applying? #
DYou can obtain details regarding the recognition of university degrees and the required application documents from the Central Student Advisory Service. Please contact the Compass Hotline. An overview can be found here: How to apply — Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin