#NextGenEcon
GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY ECONOMICS
Master of Science (M.Sc.)
(1-Fach Master)
About
The Master of Science in Global Sustainability Economics (GSE) at Ruhr University Bochum places you at the forefront of tomorrow’s global transformation. GSE @RUB is Germany’s only program that empowers you to address complex global sustainability issues from an economic perspective. Fully taught in English, the program combines economic theory, data-driven models, intercultural capacity building, and policy analysis with hands-on projects, international summer schools, and an optional semester abroad. Tackle climate change, inequality, and resource challenges while building the skills to design just and effective solutions. Graduate ready to lead in international organizations, governments, and global companies. Shape the future of sustainable global economies now!
True sustainability means thriving together—people, planet, progress. GSE @RUB gives you the economic tools to align global growth with social justice and environmental resilience.
Application
Winter and summer semester
- RUB application portal
- With a Transcript of Records (minimum 150 ECTS)
- Winter semester: September 30
- Summer semester: March 31
- Deadline to provide evidence on submitted information:
- Winter semester: September 30
- Summer semester: March 31
- Winter semester: July 15
- Summer semester: January 15
- Deadline to provide evidence on submitted information:
- Winter semester: July 21
- Summer semester: January 21
- Winter semester: October 15
- Summer semester: January 21
- Bachelor’s degree (180 ECTS)
- 40 ECTS in economics, or
20 ECTS in economics and 20 ECTS in sustainability-related subjects - 15 ECTS in mathematics/statistics
- Note that if you do not fulfill all these requirements (i.e., you are missing 5 or 10 ECTS in economics, mathematics, or statistics) you can still apply. If you are admitted to the program, you should then complete the missing ECTS in the first semester.
- Proof of English language skills of at least level B2, as evidenced by the German Abitur certificate, by completion of a fully English-taught bachelor’s degree program, or by international examinations (TOEFL iBT score of at least 87 points or equivalent qualification)
A mandatory counselling is necessary for the matriculation
- The program is not subject to limited admission.
- No tuition fees except a regular social contribution fee per semester apply.
- This social contribution fee gives you access to free public transport across all of Germany and covers administrative costs.
- Also, Students in Germany benefit from affordable health insurance plans.
Contents
- 4 semesters
- Exclusive GSE courses
- Personal and intercultural skills
- Project Seminar Global Sustainability
- Specialized master’s thesis
First, you dive deep into core economic topics. The compulsory modules Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Applied Econometrics with R, and Introduction to Microeconometrics lay the foundations. You gain specialized knowledge from Introduction to GSE, International Political Economy, Environmental Economics, and Economics of Inequality. Choose from a wide array of courses in global and sustainability economics to tailor your path.
A standout feature is the Project Seminar Global Sustainability, where you tackle real-world problems and craft practical, just, and sustainable policy solutions. An optional semester abroad, vibrant international summer schools and stimulating guest lectures give you global exposure and connect you with leading experts. The last semester is dedicated to the master’s thesis which can be an in-depth exploration of issues addressed in the project seminar.
Information about the degree program
English
- Freedom to choose your own modules
- 20+ chairs to explore
- Strong practical skills
- International summer schools
- University Language Centre (ZFA)
- Sports programs and active campus life
… and so much more!
Sustainability consultant, global economic policy analyst, environmental economist, social equity champion, …
GSE graduates are equipped for high-impact careers in international organizations, government agencies, research institutions, and global companies. In addition, you can get a PhD.
If you have any general questions regarding this degree program, please contact the Student Advisory Service:
Dipl.-Ök. Michèle L. Teufel
Representative for Study Affairs
Phone: +49 (0)234 32–22687
Kim Docter, M.A.
Student Counsellor
Phone: +49 (0)234 32–22762
Mail: wiwi-studium@rub.de
Web: wiwi.rub.de/studierende/#studienberatung
Building GD/03/229
Ruhr University Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150
D-44801 Bochum
If you have any subject-specific questions regarding this degree program, please contact:
Benjamin Y. Koch
Doctoral Researcher in International Economics
Phone: +49 (0)234 32–12167
Mail: BenjaminYanick.Koch@rub.de
Web: wiwi.rub.de/en/chairs/internationale-wirtschaftsbeziehungen/
Building GD/03/329
Ruhr University Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150
D-44801 Bochum
Who is behind the GSE Master’s program?
Program director
Professorships from CISE, CURE, and CEIT
Master’s program in GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY ECONOMICS at Ruhr University Bochum
- Builds on a first degree in economics, business administration, or related fields and offers advanced training in international sustainability economics (four semesters, 120 ECTS).
- Prepares graduates to address the most pressing global sustainability challenges — from climate change and biodiversity loss to resource management and inequality.
- Combines rigorous economic theory, empirical and econometric methods, policy analysis, and intercultural competence with practical experience through the project seminar, an optional semester abroad, and international summer schools.
- Develops experts who can design, evaluate, and implement evidence-based, just, and effective sustainability strategies for governments, international organizations, companies, and NGOs
- Emphasizes systemic thinking and interdisciplinary approaches to tackle global sustainability problems and translate scientific insights into actionable policies and strategies
Career – Make the GSE test
We dare you: if you answer “yes” to any of these questions, you are ready to thrive in GSE.
1. Do you want to actively tackle the most pressing global sustainability challenges - from climate change and biodiversity loss to deforestation?
2. Do you want to analyze how the responsibilities and burdens of these issues are distributed between the Global North and South - and develop policy strategies that address these inequalities?
3. Are you ready to translate complex economic, social, and ecological data into actionable solutions for governments, international organizations, and businesses?
4. Do you want to combine sound economic analysis with intercultural and interdisciplinary approaches to develop strategies that truly make an impact?
5. Or would you like to design, implement, and evaluate sustainability policies and strategies - supported by cutting-edge empirical research - in international organizations, NGOs, or research institutions?
As sustainability increasingly moves to the center of politics, business, and society, your expertise will be in high demand. Become part of the program and help shape a just and sustainable future - study where innovative economic thinking meets global responsibility!
The GSE program belongs to BRIDGING 2030 research centers CISE, CURE, and CEIT
Master’s Program in Global Sustainability Economics at Ruhr University Bochum
Representative for Study Affairs
Dipl.-Ök. Michèle L. Teufel
Phone: +49 (0)234 32–22687
Mail: wiwi-studium@rub.de
Web: wiwi.rub.de/studierende/#studienberatung
Building GD/03/229
Ruhr University Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150
D-44801 Bochum
Doctoral Researcher in International Economics
Benjamin Y. Koch
Phone: +49 (0)234 32–12167
Mail: BenjaminYanick.Koch@rub.de
Web: wiwi.rub.de/en/chairs/internationale-wirtschaftsbeziehungen/
Building GD/03/329
Ruhr University Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150
D-44801 Bochum