University of Belgrade, Serbia
The language of instruction is English. Participants have to complete all assignments and the Master's thesis in English.
31 May
The MSc programme in Economic Systems in cooperation with the Faculty of Economics and Business of the University of Belgrade is designed for high-achieving students with an interest in:
The structure of the programme is defined by the study and exam regulations, containing detailed descriptions of the contents and goals of individual modules as well as definitions of the type of and requirements for individual assessments in the modules and the final examination for the programme. These regulations also define the available credits for each module and the required hours for the completion of the programme.
The Master's degree programme teaches general theoretical and empirical economic skills (microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics), which build on the foundations of a previously completed economics or mathematics-oriented degree programme. The course introduces students to comparative, international, and institutional aspects of economics, with a regional focus on emerging countries, particularly Eastern Europe. In addition, practical and theoretical in-depth knowledge of interdisciplinary area studies, with a focus on Eastern Europe, is taught. In geographic terms, the concept of Eastern Europe used here includes Russia and the post-Soviet states as well as East-Central and South-Eastern Europe. The principles of academic work and good academic practice are introduced and applied.
The programme provides theoretical and practical knowledge related to South-Eastern Europe and the entire post-socialist region. Students explore critically contemporary and historical economic and political problems in the region and work in groups to develop useful analyses. In doing so, they practice adopting an interdisciplinary perspective. Students deal with gender and diversity aspects in work processes and are encouraged to critically reflect on and apply these findings on an ongoing basis.
The Master's degree programme provides the scientific basis and practical experience for a career as an economic expert for emerging markets in the following areas, among others: economic analysis and economic consulting in the public and private sector, international organisations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and scientific institutions. In addition, the Master's programme qualifies students for admission in a doctorate programme in economics or social sciences per the respective admission requirements.
Students spend the first year of studies at the University of Belgrade and the second year at Freie Universität Berlin.
The Master's programme year at the Faculty of Economics and Business of the University of Belgrade is divided into the following areas (60 CP):
1. Foundation area of 55 CP, in which the following modules must be completed:
a. Compulsory modules:
b. Compulsory elective modules: One module from the following two modules must be selected and completed:
2. Practical work experience of 5 CP: The following module must be completed.
The Master's programme year at Freie Universität Berlin comprises a specialisation area of 45 CP and a Master's thesis of 15 CP. The following modules must be completed:
The Master's thesis should demonstrate that the student is capable of independently addressing a defined research subject. Following the successful completion of the programme, the candidate will be awarded the degree Master of Science in Economic Systems.
PDF DownloadThe first year of studies is offered by the University of Belgrade in Serbia, while the second year of studies is offered by Freie Universität Berlin.
Internship in Serbia
In total, the semester contribution amounts to 326.40 EUR. It includes a fee of 181.40 EUR for the transportation ticket contribution. This allows you to use local public transport in Berlin and nationwide for free. Other costs covered by the semester contribution include a 50 EUR enrolment fee, a 85 EUR semester contribution to the student support service ("studierendenWERK Berlin"), and a 10 EUR contribution to the student union.
Compared to other European countries, the cost of living in Germany is quite reasonable. However, the cost of living has also risen somewhat in Germany in recent years. The prices for food, accommodation, clothing, cultural events, etc. are slightly above the EU average. You will need around 900 to 1,300 EUR each month to cover your living expenses. The biggest expense is monthly rent, which is between 400 and 700 EUR in Berlin.
The Deutschlandstipendium scholarship enables students at Freie Universität Berlin (FU Berlin) from all nations and walks of life to fully concentrate on their studies. The programme supports talented students with 300 EUR per month. To apply, you must already be enrolled and be within the standard period of time given to complete your degree during the funding period, or you must have a letter of acceptance to start a degree programme at Freie Universität Berlin.
Proficiency in English at level C1 CEFR
31 May
Candidates holding a first degree from a German university should apply through the FU application portal.
Candidates who have a first degree from a non-German university should apply via uni-assist e.V.
There are many ways of earning money while you study, for example as waiting staff, academic assistants, or private tutors. Knowledge of German will improve your chances of finding a part-time job, but it isn’t necessarily required. However, it is important to be aware of the legal regulations.
The student support service at the university, called "studierendenWERK Berlin", and the local representative of the "Bundesagentur für Arbeit" (Federal Employment Agency) can provide information about jobs for students. When searching for a job, look at online job boards, notice boards on campus, and ads in local newspapers.
You have the option to stay in a public/private student dormitory or in a private (shared) apartment. Student dormitories are not administrated by the university itself, so Freie Universität Berlin does not have any on-campus housing. However, it works together with "studierendenWERK Berlin" regarding student accommodation.
If you do not wish to stay in a student dormitory, you can try to find a room or an apartment on the private housing market. Many students in Berlin live in shared apartments ("WGs"). You can find these offers online (e.g. WG-Gesucht or Kleinanzeigen) or on notice boards on campus.
Available rooms/apartments near the university are rare. Therefore, students mostly commute from other parts of the city. The commute via public transportation usually takes between 30 minutes and an hour, which is considered a normal travel time in Berlin due to the size of the city.
The Career Service of Freie Universität Berlin aims to support international students at Freie Universität by providing information, advice, and events related to career planning, internships, and job applications.
The International Student Support team at FU Berlin regularly offers information events that include Q&A sessions. While personal office hours are not available due to our team size, students can contact Info-Service Study for general inquiries or seek assistance from the General Academic Advisory Service or Psychological Counselling for more complex concerns. Additionally, the team continually enhances its expertise in international affairs, thereby contributing to FU Berlin's internationalisation process.
Freie Universität Berlin is a young, modern university offering a wide range of degree programmes across all academic disciplines. Today, approximately 33,000 students are enrolled in around 170 degree programmes spanning the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and life sciences. Economics, Law, Global History, Physics, English Studies, Biodiversity, and Cognitive Neuroscience are just a few examples of the wide variety of subjects offered at Freie Universität Berlin.
As a leading research institution, Freie Universität Berlin has held the status of a University of Excellence awarded by the German government for almost 20 years. It is part of the only University Consortium of Excellence in Germany – the Berlin University Alliance – which includes four prestigious partners: Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Technische Universität Berlin, and Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin.
Freie Universität Berlin is highly international in its outlook. It maintains partnerships with numerous universities worldwide and operates liaison offices in Cairo, Eastern Europe (Tbilisi, Georgia), New Delhi, and São Paulo. Around 22 percent of students in undergraduate and graduate programmes come from abroad, as do 42 percent of doctoral candidates. Many lecturers and professors also have international backgrounds. At Freie Universität Berlin, you will meet people from all over the world.
A variety of support services make it easier to begin your studies, especially for international students and those new to Berlin. Examples include orientation week, the mentorship programme, the peer programme, and the Student Services Center.
The university sports programme, ranging from Aikido to Zumba, is also very popular. Numerous cafeterias and dining halls across campus offer food and beverages, often including fair trade, organic, vegetarian, and vegan options.
Environmental protection and sustainability are key values at Freie Universität Berlin. There are many opportunities to get involved in related initiatives and student-led projects.
In addition, Freie Universität Berlin actively supports entrepreneurs. Through its start-up support network, students, researchers, and alumni receive guidance on turning innovative ideas into successful businesses – from the initial concept to market readiness.
Freie Universität Berlin is one of the leading universities in Germany’s capital. It is located in the leafy district of Dahlem, in the southwestern part of the city. Most of the university’s facilities are situated on the Dahlem campus, making it a central hub for academic life in a uniquely green setting. No other university campus in Berlin offers as much greenery and open space.
Just step outside the university buildings to enjoy the outdoors — have lunch on one of the many terraces or rooftops, or explore the green spaces nestled between the buildings. In the summer, you can cool off after class with a swim in nearby Krumme Lanke or head to Freie Universität’s water sports centre at Wannsee.
Dahlem is also home to one of the largest botanical gardens in Europe, offering a peaceful escape just a few steps from campus life.
Thanks to excellent public transportation connections, the heart of Berlin is easily accessible. The U3 subway line directly links Dahlem with popular central neighbourhoods such as Schöneberg, Kreuzberg, and Friedrichshain, and all other districts can also be reached quickly and conveniently.
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