Welcome at the Max Weber Institute of Sociology!

Named after the eminent founding father of German sociology, the Max Weber Institute for Sociology at the University of Heidelberg draws on the rich tradition of sociological scholarship established through the works of Max Weber. Our profile is grounded in a strong theoretical orientation, broad comparative perspectives, and a wide array of methods (both quantitative and qualitative). The institute represents a vibrant scholarly community engaged in a diverse range of essential research fields, including the sociology of social inequality, migration, religion and law, as well as organizational and political sociology. Additionally, the institute maintains strong institutional ties with neighboring departments and research centers in area studies.

Our Programs of Study

Max Weber Institute of Sociology in Heidelberg offers programs on Bachelor and Master level.

BA Sociology (3 years, 180 ECTS)

The Bachelor's program in Sociology offers a comprehensive course catalog that covers a wide range of both general and specialized topics. In keeping with its Weberian heritage, the program emphasizes a strong theoretical foundation combined with extensive methodological training. Students are encouraged to explore and expand their individual interests, with the opportunity to earn up to 28 credit points through interdisciplinary courses and lectures.

The primary language of instruction is German (B1), although courses in substantive fields are regularly offered in English (B2).

Learn more about our Bachelor's program here.

MA Sociology (2 years, 120 ECTS)

The Master's program in Sociology offers an extensive course catalog covering a wide range of specialized topics. It builds upon contemporary debates in sociological theory, combined with rigorous training in advanced methodologies, including comparative methods.

Collaborations with area studies, such as with the Heidelberg Center for Ibero-American Studies (HCIAS), provide students the opportunity to develop their own unique concentrations. Students can also choose between two distinct lines of specialization: Sociology of Organization and Personnel (in German) or Global and Comparative Sociology (in English).

The primary language of instruction is German (B1), although courses in substantive fields are regularly offered in English (B2).

Learn more about our Master's program here.

Incoming ERASMUS+ Students

Admitted ERASMUS students are enrolled as regular students and have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of courses offered at the Max Weber Institute and all other departments at Heidelberg University. This includes area studies programs such as the Heidelberg Center for American Studies (HCA), Heidelberg Center for Ibero-American Studies (HCIAS), and the Centre for Asian and Transcultural Studies (CATS), as well as German language courses.

• Our Bachelor's Program covers a broad range of general and specialized topics in both lecture and seminar formats. While most courses are taught in German, we regularly offer 2-3 courses per semester in English within substantive fields.
• Our Master's Program offers a diverse array of specialized topics and has two lines of specialization: Organizational and Personnel Sociology (in German) and Global and Transnational Sociology (entirely in English).

Language Proficiency Levels

• Bachelor's level: ERASMUS students must present German language proficiency of at least B1.
• Master's level: ERASMUS students may present either German proficiency (B1 or higher) or English proficiency (B2 or higher).