7. Key Dates and Deadlines

The academic cycle follows the same rhythm every year, so the deadlines below apply whichever intake you belong to. Exact calendar dates for a given academic year are announced by the Institute.

The academic year

WhenWhat
Last week of AugustOrientation programme for international students; academic year begins
September – JanuaryAutumn semester
February – JuneSpring semester
Mid-JuneGraduation ceremonies (precise date announced in early spring)

Your four semesters

SemesterFocus
FirstFocus on Scientific Methods and Core Competencies modules; preliminary thesis prospectus as part of Social Science Methodology
SecondRemaining mandatory courses; specialisation courses; begin approaching potential supervisors
ThirdSemester abroad or internship, if you choose one; formal thesis prospectus due
FourthWriting and defending the MA thesis

MA thesis deadlines

DeadlineWhat is due
1 November (third semester)Formal approx. 4-page thesis prospectus.
1 November (third semester)If you intend to extend and write your thesis in a fifth semester, you must inform the Programme Director by this date.
1 AprilProspectus deadline for students who have extended their studies. Their defence then takes place in the autumn term (the following January).
May (fourth semester)Thesis submission.
End of May / beginning of JuneThesis defence.

Things that are set anew each year

These are not listed in this guide because they change annually. Follow the links for the current version:

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