Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Studying full or part-time?
The majority of EMPM participants takes part in the two-year programme. Because the EMPM is taught in blocks of two to four days each, it is possible to participate in the EMPM even if the city you work is in other parts of Germany or even abroad. 76% of this year's EMPM student body lives outside Berlin, some in places as far as Brussels, London or Moscow.
There are about 46 days of classes in the EMPM. Students who study while working and who follow the programme over a period of two years should estimate more compulsory attendance time in the first year of the programme, in order to have enough time for the preparation of the Master's thesis in the second year. Some of the blocks include Saturdays, which means that the employers must grant about 40 days leave in total (over a period of two years). In each module the participants receive credit points in accordance with the European Credit Transfer System (60 ECTS in total). Participants may shift from the one-year to the two-year programme and vice versa.
Are scholarships available for EMPM participants?
Most students will be delegated and sponsored by their home institutions, which will cover all or part of the costs. The Hertie School of Governance has a limited amount of scholarships available for especially talented candidates whose profiles add to the quality and diversity of the student body. In Germany, tuition fees are tax-deductible as professional training expenses.
What are the English language requirements for admission?
The language of instruction at the Hertie School of Governance is English. Candidates must be fluent in English; If you can provide proof of a substantial work or study experience abroad, you may not have to provide a language test. Short-term study abroad, au-pair home stays or language school certificates will not be accepted as test replacements.
The Hertie School of Governance recognises the Cambridge CPE and CAE tests, the IELTS as well as the TOEFL tests. The school code for the TOEFL test is 8874. Test results may not be more than two (2) years old. For your orientation, the EMPM admission requirements may be met by one of the following scores: TOEFL (PBT 550, CBT 220, IBT 80), IELTS (overall score of 6,5), CPE (C), CAE (B).
You can submit your application to the EMPM programme, even if your language test is not yet available. However, please note that admission cannot be issued without proof of your language skills. We therefore advise all applicants to submit your results as early as possible.
Will I need to speak German to be able to study at the Hertie School of Governance?
The EMPM is an international programme, taught entirely in English, therefore, knowledge of German is not required. A passive understanding of German as well as the German administrative context may sometimes still be seen as a benefit.
What are the living costs in Berlin (listing of individual components)?
Total costs in Berlin are relatively low compared to other global cities. They are estimated at about €800 per month - this includes rent (€300), health insurance (€70), transport (€70), and living costs (€360).
Will accommodation be provided? Who can I contact should I need help in looking for a place to live?
The Hertie School does not offer housing on campus but there are various accommodation options in Berlin at relatively reasonable rates. The Student Services office will help students to identify and arrange accommodation.
Will I be supported in dealing with the German authorities if necessary (questions concerning visas, residence permits, etc.)?
The Student Services office will offer support in administrative issues such as residence permits, health insurance, etc.
Does the Hertie School of Governance have a Career Services Centre?
The Hertie School of Governance will assist its students in finding appropriate job opportunities after graduation. The contact person for students and alumni concerning the job search of HSoG-students is Jan Fischoeder (fischoeder(at)hertie-school.org) in Career Services.
Will there be a support network available after my studies?
EMPM graduates will become part of the Hertie School of Governance Alumni Network. The Hertie School's Career Services Department intensively supports alumni in finding employment after graduation.
