Master in Social Sciences and Educational Sciences
University of Luxembourg
Information last verified July 2026
Program Overview
The Master’s programme is designed for students with strong interests in education and society with a special focus on social inequality and the comparison of education and science systems embedded in societies.
Career Opportunities
Career opportunities The Master programme prepares students to either continue their academic career in the University of Luxembourg’s intensive doctoral programmes or transition to a wide variety of national or international organisations, governments, foundations or associations throughout Europe and beyond. More info Download the flyer Objectives The programme provides students with structured educational opportunities and gives them the freedom to develop their own intellectual interests. English-language-based, the programme distinctively unites social scientific analysis of education and social systems and policies at local, national, European, and global levels. It combines historical, cultural, political, educational and sociological perspectives on educational institutions and organisations as well as their conditions and their consequences. Students are provided with the ability to analyse changes in ideas, institutions and organisations caused by social, economic and political integration and compare the development of educational and social policies, schooling and social services across time and space.They acquire the necessary skills to act as experts in academic fields of study (social sciences, education, social and educational policy) and engage in developing policies. Learning Outcomes Students work intensively with mentors and peers to develop their knowledge and skills. At the end of the programme students will: -acquire critical understandings of and review research related to fields of study in the social and educational sciences-follow and engage in debates on changing societies-acquire and expand your knowledge of social inequalities and welfare state regimes-compare, critique and plan reforms of education and social service systems-design, develop, and conduct empirical research using quantitative, qualitative, historical or mixed methods Discover more Financing possibilities Discover your future home Any questions? Contact us Share thisshare
Program Curriculum
Programme The curriculum covers a full-time, two-year programme (120 ECTS). The final semester is dedicated to the completion of a Master thesis. All the classes are taught in English. Admissions Academic Contents Semestre 1 Semestre 1 Semestre 2 Semestre 3 Course offer for Semestre 1 (2026-2027 Winter) Introduction to Sociological Theory ECTS credits: 6 Course code: SSES-43 Course title: Introduction to Sociological Theory Number of ECTS: 6 Course code: SSES-43 Module(s): THEORY Language: EN Mandatory: Yes On completion of the course a student should be able to understand the key concepts used in sociology; reflect their own situation as young academic researchers in a culturally diverse world subjected to processes of globalization. This seminar introduces key contributions to sociological theory from a historical perspective, with a focus on how institutions shape social life, particularly within the context of education. Students will engage with fundamental sociological issues such as inequality, modernization, and individualization while exploring core concepts like actors, structure, culture, and society.The course begins with the foundational thinkers of 19th-century sociology, including Karl Marx, Max Weber, and Emile Durkheim, whose theories on bureaucracy, rationalization, and social cohesion continue to influence contemporary thought. The course also delves into the development of post-World War II sociology, exploring rational choice theory and institutional theory. These perspectives emphasize the role of institutions, rules, and systems in shaping individual and collective behavior. The mid-20thcentury evolution of these theories will be examined through critiques by neo institutionalist scholars who explore the interaction between institutions and social change. A central theme of the course is the role of education as a social institution, analyzing how it influences societal outcomes and mirrors broader sociological trends. By the end of the course
Admission Requirements
Admissions To apply for a programme at the University of Luxembourg, candidates must comply with the general eligibility criteria for the chosen programme type and be selected by the study programme based on the quality of their application. The programme at a glance – 120 ECTS Duration2 years / 4 sem Languages:EN Admissions:EU: 1 Feb 2026 – 15 Jul 2026Non-EU: 1 Feb 2026 – 24 Mar 2026 Fees:400€/ sem. (semester 1,2,3,4) Format:Full-time programme Specific information for this programme Requirements Bachelor degree or equivalent (180 ECTS) in an educational or social sciences (or multiple disciplines) and a strong interest in theoretical perspectives and excellent methodological skills. C1 certificate in English. No certificate for French or German (B1 level advised) Knowledge of French and German are considered an asset. More information on proof of language skills In addition to the documents required for the enrolment at the University of Luxembourg, students need to submit the following documents: – letter of motivation (2 pages describing your academic preparation and interests) – curriculum vitae – transcripts of prior academic work – contact details of two referees and/or a letter of reference References : an online form must be filled in – the link will be provided during the admission process Selection procedure & criteria Registration for the Master in Social Sciences and Educational Sciences opens every two years. Selection is based on the application documents and a personal interview. References : an online form must be filled in – the link will be provided during the admission process Proven interest in high level academic research Grades during the past academic years Knowledge of English Policy and/or practical experience in social and/or educational contexts will be considered an advantage. High grades at bachelor level Advanced theoretical and methodological skills and interests Interested in social and educational sciences Team player and committed
Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition Fee
400€/semester
About University of Luxembourg
University of Luxembourg
Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
The University of Luxembourg is a public research university in Esch-sur-Alzette and Luxembourg City, Luxembourg. It was founded in 2003 and is the only public university in Luxembourg.
University Profile- Application Deadline EU: 1 Feb 2026 – 15 Jul 2026Non-EU: 1 Feb 2026 – 24 Mar 2026 Fees:400€/ sem. (semester 1,2,3,4) Form
- Start Date September
- Language English
- Duration 2 years
- Credits 120
