International Programmes 2026/2027

Master’s College European Studies (MAC-ES) Master’s College European Studies

RWTH Aachen University • Aachen

Course location
Aachen
Teaching language
  • English
Date(s)
  • March - June 2027
Mode of study
Fully online
Phase(s) of attendance in Germany (applies to the entire programme)
None
Pace of course
Instructor-led (Specific due dates for lectures/assignments/exams)
Additional information on dates, prices and mode of study

The programme is a combination of an asynchronous study format and a synchronous study format. On our digital learning platform, you will find pre-recorded lecture videos and supporting material for studying on your own. In addition, there are fixed live lecture dates for direct exchange with the lecturers.

The examination of each module is conducted digitally at the end of each live session period. 

Description/content

Prepare for the Master’s of Public Administration in European Studies 

The Master's College European Studies (short MAC-ES) is our qualification programme, specifically designed for interested students in our Master of Public Administration (MPA) in European Studies. In the qualification programme, you will take part in up to five modules that will close academic gaps in preparation for the MPA European Studies at RWTH Aachen University.

Participants who have successfully completed the qualification programme will be granted priority admission to the MPA European Studies! 

Essential topics, such as a fundamental understanding of the European Union and European economic relations are covered in the programme. In addition, interactive English classes are offered to improve communication and debating skills. 

Above all, the Master’s College European Studies is designed to match the personal level of skills. Therefore, you have the option to select one of the three available study packages. 

  • All-inclusive package: Everything you need. Get the all-inclusive experience, which includes all modules. We recommend this package if you do not yet feel confident in your English language abilities. You will learn how to hold debates on political issues, give English language speeches, and have discussions using English terminology.
  • Intermediate level package: Upgrade your debating skills. Deepen or refresh your English language comprehension and refine your debating skills pertaining to political topics.
  • Advanced level package: Focus on the fundamental topics. Participate only in the modules that focus on the political and economic contexts in the European Union. Modules on English language pronunciation and debating will be completely omitted in this package.

Depending on the chosen study package, you will take part in up to five modules. All courses are taught by current or former lecturers of RWTH Aachen University. 

  • The two English language courses are taught by English native speakers.  
  • The two economics modules are taught by professors who are also teaching advanced economic modules in the MPA European Studies.  
  • The module on the European Union is enriched by the additional teaching of Scientific Writing. 
Course components
  • Subject-specific preparation
  • Language course
  • Preparation for academic working methods
Recognised language exams offered (e.g. DSH, TestDaF, TOEFL)
No
Average number of hours per week
15
Do course participants have student status?
No
ECTS credits (max.)
10
Do applicants finish this course with a university qualification exam, also known as the “Feststellungsprüfung”?
No
Further information on subsequent admission to degree programmes/guaranteed admission

By participating in the Master’s College European Studies, you will gain basic knowledge about the European Union and improve your conversation skills. With our customised distance learning programme, you will obtain priority admission to our MPA European Studies.

Data protection and privacy measures for online resources of students are in place
Yes
The didactic concept is geared towards digital teaching and the learning materials are designed accordingly
Yes
Costs
  • 2,000 EUR

  • The price listed applies to the Advanced Level Package. The final price depends on the package you choose.

  • Costs may increase due to additional factors (e.g. test fees, accommodation, insurance, etc.). For a detailed breakdown of costs, please consult the programme website.
Academic admission requirements

Profile of applicants

  • Enrolled Bachelor's students or Bachelor's graduates (all subjects)
  • A minimum of six months of suitable practical experience (full-time work, part-time work, internships, research projects, etc.)
  • English language proficiency

Students from all countries are welcome to apply if they meet the applicants' profile requirements. Students from China, India, or Thailand will gain access through the China Office, India Office, or Thailand Office of RWTH International Academy.

Application documents
Please submit the following documents with your application:
  • Proof of language proficiency
  • Application form
  • Transcript of records
  • Motivation letter
  • CV
  • Proof of work experience
German language skills
No minimum language level required
English language skills
Minimum B2 required, please provide an official language certificate, e.g.:
  • TOEFL iBT (before 2026): 90
  • IELTS Academic: 6
Additional information on language requirements

Students or graduates of a Bachelor's programme taught in English do not need to provide a proof of English language proficiency.

Submit application via
Please check this website.
Is a social and leisure programme offered?
No

RWTH Aachen University

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RWTH Aachen University © Peter Winandy

With 260 institutes, nine faculties, and three Clusters of Excellence, RWTH Aachen University is one of Europe's leading institutions for science and research. Currently, more than 47,000 students are enrolled in 162 courses of study. Of these students, approx. 13,000 are international students. RWTH Aachen is well known for its state-of-the-art education that tackles some of the world’s most pressing global challenges. Our graduates are highly sought after by businesses and industry as trainees and for executive positions.

As the official academy for education of RWTH Aachen University, RWTH International Academy is tasked with promoting and developing the integration of professional and academic education. Our goal is to make knowledge accessible to international participants through application-oriented educational formats and programmes, thus making a lasting contribution to lifelong learning.

More about RWTH International Academy

University location

Aachen, a city bustling with students, is a vibrant and historic place located at the border triangle of Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Aachen was a favoured residence of Charlemagne. After the departure of the Romans from this region, Charlemagne finally managed to forge the lion’s share of Europe into something that resembled an administrative unity with Aachen as the beating heart of the empire. The “Rathaus” (city hall) and “Dom” (cathedral) bear witness to the earliest Carolingian architectural history. During your time in Aachen, you will have the opportunity to discover the city, its history, and its most important sights. Moreover, you will experience student life at one of Europe’s leading technical universities and become part of the international student community. There is no better place to experience European culture while challenging yourself in our programmes.

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