Study in Germany | Ruhr University DAAD-EPOS Scholarships...

Study in Germany | Ruhr University DAAD-EPOS Scholarships 2028

Posted 2026-04-08 10:00:10

Study in Germany | Ruhr University DAAD-EPOS Scholarships 2028

Do you work in development cooperation across the Global South? Have you hit a ceiling where your practical expertise needs the backing of rigorous academic training? The path forward often feels frustratingly narrow. Programmes that genuinely connect operational know how with social science methods while also funding participants remain extremely rare. The MA in Development Management at Ruhr University Bochum breaks that pattern. Now accepting applications for its 2028–30 intake, this programme has sustained this mission for over two decades, backed by DAAD EPOS scholarships reserved specifically for candidates from developing countries.

What Makes This Programme Unique

The MADM programme launched in 2000 as part of the DAAD’s Development Related Postgraduate Courses initiative. From day one, its designers shaped it not as a conventional academic degree but as a professionally oriented master’s course for mid career practitioners. The programme carries 90 ECTS credits across three semesters and holds accreditation through 2029 by the German Accreditation Council.

Between 2002 and 2023, a parallel track operated at the University of the Western Cape in South Africa through the DAAD funded South African–German Centre for Development Research. That Cape Town arm has since closed, concentrating the MADM exclusively at Bochum’s campus. This history gives the programme a genuinely cross continental heritage even in its current concentrated form.

The Financial Package: What the DAAD EPOS Scholarship Covers

The DAAD EPOS scholarship serves as the programme’s flagship financing route. It covers your tuition, provides a monthly stipend, includes health insurance, and contributes to travel costs for selected participants from eligible countries. While DAAD does not publish fixed stipend figures for each programme individually, EPOS awards typically include a monthly living allowance of approximately €934 along with study and research subsidies. This makes the Bochum development management scholarship one of the most comprehensive funding packages available in Germany’s postgraduate landscape.

Self financing candidates are also welcome to apply. However, they should budget carefully. The DAAD and Ruhr University’s International Office both publish cost of living guides for Bochum to help with financial planning.

Eligibility: Who Qualifies

The programme structures its eligibility around professional experience as much as academic credentials. Check every requirement carefully before applying:

Academic Background: You need a bachelor’s degree with upper second class or equivalent in a relevant discipline. Eligible fields include political science, economics, law, social science, geography, or areas related to development programme planning.
Work Experience: For DAAD EPOS candidates, you must demonstrate at least two years of post graduation career experience in a development relevant field. The selection committee gives preference to applicants whose employers guarantee reintegration upon return.
English Proficiency: You must certify your English skills through TOEFL with minimum 79–80 iBT, IELTS Band 6.0, or Duolingo minimum 110. The programme does not accept institutional TOEFL scores.
Recommendation Letters: You need two letters, one academic and one professional. DAAD EPOS applicants must include one letter from their current employer.
German Language Requirement: DAAD EPOS scholars must attend a preparatory German language course starting in July before the September programme start.

Programme Structure: What You Will Study

The MADM blends coursework in development theory, empirical social research methods, and project cycle management with hands on research. Here is how the three semesters unfold:

First Semester: You focus on theory intensive coursework. You then have the option to complete a two month internship.
Second Semester: You pivot toward project planning and evaluation. You complete a seminar paper that scaffolds your thesis.
Third Semester: You conduct independent field research, typically collecting primary data in your home country or region. You then write up your dissertation.

How to Apply

Click Here to Apply

The Deadline You Cannot Miss

Applications for the DAAD EPOS scholarship track close on 30 September 2027. Self financed candidates have until 31 December 2027. Submit all applications through the university’s online MADM Application Platform. The document checklist is extensive, including a motivation letter, Europass CV, degree transcripts with grading system explanations, school leaving certificate, employment evidence, passport copy, and photo. DAAD EPOS applicants must additionally submit a completed DAAD checklist and application form. Incomplete files face outright rejection, so begin assembling your documentation well ahead of the deadline.

Visit the official Ruhr University Bochum MADM page today. Review the full requirements, confirm your eligibility, and take the first step toward bridging your field experience with advanced academic training.