Good Reasons for a Master's Degree in Sociology and Social Research
With Sociology and Social Research in Bamberg you are making the right choice! Here you will find ideal study conditions, professional expertise and an attractive university environment - and all this in one of the most beautiful places to study in Germany.
Academic Excellence: Leading Research Meets Outstanding Education
Our reputation and expertise, your educational sucess
Bamberg has one of the leading sociology departments in Germany. The University of Bamberg consistently ranks highly in both national and international assessments: In the CHE University Ranking, Bamberg Sociology regularly achieves top positions in research orientation and methodological training. The Shanghai Ranking also places the University of Bamberg among the leading institutions for sociology in Germany, confirming our international recognition and academic excellence.
With respect to the training in research methods, the relatedness to science and its research reputation, the University of Bamberg belongs to the top universities in Germany. The outstanding scientific achievement of the University of Bamberg’s Sociology Department is affirmed by the German Council of Science and Humanities (only available in German). Furthermore, the University of Bamberg is ranked 1st in “Innovation in Education” in Germany by the German Research Foundation (DFG) (DFG-Förderatlas 2012 - only available in German) and within Bavaria is ranked 2nd in “Humanities and Social Science”. The close linkage between research and teaching is a strong benefit for your education.
Our research areas, your major fields of study
The major fields of study within Sociology are reflected in the research areas at the University of Bamberg as the study content is interconnected with the scientific quality of Sociology in Bamberg. Hence you chose a concentration area out of the various sociological fields of study and are supervised by acknowledged experts from that field.
Our research questions, your lecture courses
The proximity to current research guarantees that lectures are on the pulse of time. The focus on topics that are currently discussed in science ensures academic depth and a future-driven education. This facilitates your entry into the job market. Your knowledge is sophisticated, up-to-date, and forward thinking.
Our research experience, your qualification
The obligatory practice module reinforces the above mentioned effects. You will benefit directly from our social research experience in an application-oriented environment. By actively conducting research with a close supervision by experienced scientist, you will gain concrete insights into our research work in the fields of ‘demography’, ‘migration’, ‘education, labor and family’ as well as ‘labor market, labor organization and occupational science’.
Our thematic diversity, your field of expertise
Comprising 13 chairs and professorships, Sociology in Bamberg covers a broad range of thematic fields. The research in the department focusses on labor market, education and family issues as well as on macro-sociological issues. With the National Educational Panel Study (NEPS) of the Leibniz Institute for Educational Trajectories (LIfBi), Bamberg is known as one of the leading centers for empirical education research. Furthermore, within Bavaria, Bamberg has the only professorship explicitly in demography. The Department of Sociology, especially Sociological Theory and the professorship for Sociology enable insights into a historic and comparative perspective on social processes. This means that social science research paradigms besides quantitative social research are also considered and you can choose your field of expertise as it corresponds to your interests and professional expectations.
Career Paths: Networks, Support, and Real-World Connections
Our institutions, your chances
The practical relevance of the study program opens up various professional opportunities within and outside science. Many graduates of Sociology from the University of Bamberg enter public administrations (project management), public relation and marketing departments of large companies, coaching and consulting agencies as well as market research.
For a scientific career, the University of Bamberg offers several possibilities for further qualifications. The Trimberg Research Academy (TRAc) gives an overview on structured doctoral programs at Bamberg (BAGSS - Bamberg Graduate School of Social Sciences). The Scientific Career Service provides basic information concerning scientific careers and scholarship programs. Furthermore, the numerous social science research projects at Bamberg offer options for an entry in a science profession as well as possibilities to pursue a doctorate.
Our research institutes, your gateway to professional practice
Bamberg's unique position as a hub for social science research gives you direct access to leading research institutions. The Leibniz Institute for Educational Trajectories (LIfBi), the Institute for Employment Research (IAB), the Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA), and the State Institute for Family Research (ifb) are all closely connected to the Department of Sociology. These partnerships provide opportunities for student assistant positions, internships, and early insights into research practice, giving you valuable hands-on experience and professional contacts before graduation.
Our alumni network, your professional community
As a graduate of Bamberg Sociology, you become part of an active alumni network that spans various professional fields. The Department maintains close ties with former students through regular networking events and the mentoring program of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Economics, and Business Administration. This creates valuable connections for your career entry and professional development, allowing you to benefit from the experiences of graduates who have successfully established themselves in diverse sectors.
Our career support, your professional development
The University of Bamberg offers comprehensive career services to support your transition from studies to professional life. The Career Service provides workshops on application strategies, CV writing, and interview preparation. Regular career fairs and employer presentations on campus connect you directly with potential employers. Additionally, the practice module integrated into the curriculum ensures that you apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, making you attractive to employers from day one.
Our international connections, your global opportunities
Through established partnerships with universities and research institutions worldwide, you have access to international research projects and exchange programs. These connections not only broaden your academic opportunities but also open doors to international career paths. Many of our faculty members maintain active collaborations with international researchers, offering you chances to participate in cross-national studies and build a global professional network.
Bamberg: Where History Meets Student Life
Our campus, your learning environment
The University of Bamberg is known for its excellent student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring personal attention and close supervision throughout your studies. Small seminar groups facilitate intensive discussion and direct exchange with professors. The modern infrastructure, including well-equipped libraries, computer labs with statistical software, and quiet study spaces, provides an ideal environment for focused academic work. The central location of university buildings within the historic city center means everything is within walking or cycling distance.
Our student community, your social network
With approximately 13,000 students in a city of 77,000 inhabitants, Bamberg offers a vibrant student community where it's easy to make connections. The Department of Sociology fosters a welcoming atmosphere where students from different semesters and programs come together. Student initiatives, regular departmental events, and informal gatherings create opportunities to build friendships and study groups. International students particularly appreciate the inclusive atmosphere and the manageable size of the university, which makes it easy to feel at home quickly.
Our location, your quality of life
Bamberg's UNESCO World Heritage status isn't just about beautiful architecture – it creates a unique atmosphere for daily life. The city combines cultural richness with affordable living costs compared to larger German cities. Accommodation is more accessible and reasonably priced, and the cost of living allows students to enjoy their time without financial strain. The well-preserved medieval old town, with its numerous cafés, beer gardens, and cultural venues, offers endless opportunities for relaxation after intensive study sessions.
Our region, your adventure playground
Located on the edge of Franconian Switzerland (Fränkische Schweiz), Bamberg is the perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding region offers excellent opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, cycling, and canoeing – ideal for balancing intensive academic work with active recreation. The area is also famous for its traditional breweries, castles, and natural beauty. Major cities like Nuremberg (30 minutes by train) and Würzburg are easily accessible for weekend trips, while Munich is just 90 minutes away.
Our internationality, your multicultural experience
Despite its manageable size, Bamberg is remarkably international. In 2013, the University of Bamberg was voted the second most popular university in Germany among international students. The Department of Sociology actively promotes internationalization through English-language courses, international research projects, and a welcoming culture for students from around the world. This creates a diverse learning environment where you'll engage with perspectives from different cultures and academic traditions.
Our support services, your smooth start
The University of Bamberg provides comprehensive support for both German and international students. The International Office assists with visa matters, housing search, and orientation. The Student Services (Studierendenwerk) offers affordable meals, student housing, and counseling services. For academic questions, the dedicated student advisory service of the Department of Sociology guides you through program requirements and helps you plan your individual study path. Regular introductory events for new students ensure you feel welcome and well-informed from day one.