The minor European Power and German Thinking: Law, Economics, and Politics explores Germany’s position within Europe and the world, as well as its influence on shaping modern global dynamics. Drawing on the interconnected fields of politics, economics, and law we examine contemporary Germany as a territorial state, a member of the European Union, a global player, and a cultural entity. The minor also poses critical questions about Germany’s future: which visions dominate mainstream and minority discourses? How do these visions influence perceptions and realities in political, economic, and legal spheres? In what ways do they materialise – or fail to materialise?

We approach these issues and topics from a cultural-historical, political, philosophical, and economic perspective. At the same time, your language skills will be useful: the majority of the texts you study are in German, and lectures are primarily conducted in German, with some in English. A passive knowledge of German is therefore required. You are welcome to contribute verbally and in writing in your own language.

This minor is perfect for you if you have a broad cultural, economic and political interest in Germany and enjoy an interactive environment where exchange and open discussions are central.

This minor is offered by the Faculty of Humanities. The faculty’s minors consist of 30 ECTS credits and earn you a second qualification that will be listed on the transcript accompanying your degree certificate. 

Study schedule

Master's programme

The minor in European Power and German Thinking: Law, Economics, and Politics may serve as a good preparation for academic Bachelor's students who want to apply for admission to a Master's programme in European Studies, e.g.: the master's in European Policy or Identity and Integration, or the Dutch taught master's in Duitslandstudies. Always check the entry requirements on the Application & admission page of the Master’s programme you are interested in.

Entry requirements

This minor is open for application to students who have obtained an academic first-year diploma or a positive Binding Study Advice from an academic Bachelor's programme. 

The minor is also open for application to students from a Dutch University of Applied Sciences (HBO) who have completed their propaedeutic year. If you are an HBO student and if you are looking to do a Master's programme at the UvA, please check out our pre-Master's programmes, as completing a minor is not enough to grant you access to Master’s programmes. 

Application

The registration period for a minor in the academic year 2025-2026 is 1 April - 13 May 2025.
Information about the application proceduce will soon be published on this webpage.