Governance Master Programs in Germany with Admission Restriction — Numerus Clausus/NC (2026/27)

Germany stands out as a global hub for Governance studies, offering international students access to cutting-edge programs at renowned institutions like the Hertie School of Governance in Berlin, the Willy Brandt School in Erfurt, and the German University of Administrative Sciences Speyer. These English-taught programs explore how societies organize decision-making in the face of digital transformation, multilevel governance, and populist challenges, combining public policy analysis, administrative law, institutional economics, and regulatory design with practical training in evidence-based policymaking, stakeholder engagement, and digital government solutions. Students gain insights into Germany’s federal system, EU-level governance, and innovations in citizen participation, sustainability, and crisis management, while internships with ministries, EU offices, GIZ, think tanks, and civic tech startups provide real-world experience.

Related subjects

Application Deadlines

Numerus Clausus

NC-Free

Most Selective Governance Master Programs

For degree courses with a numerus clausus, part of the study places are allocated according to the grade point average (GPA) of the previous degree. Selection is generally based on how many applicants apply for a place. The higher the grade, the more difficult it is to get onto the course. The German grading system ranges from 1.0 (very good) to 6.0 (unsatisfactory).