If you are a passionate master's graduate looking to build a career in international cooperation for development and sustainability, the Postgraduate Programme for Sustainability Cooperation (PGP) at the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) offers a life-changing opportunity. This fully-funded programme equips participants with advanced knowledge, practical skills, and global networks, enabling them to become leaders in sustainability cooperation. Details in this article.
Programme Summary
Host Country: Germany
Host Institution: German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS)
Study Level: Postgraduate Training Programme (9 month course)
Funding and Coverage: €1,500 monthly stipend and additional costs covered for research stays
Award Duration: 9 months
Application Deadline: 31 March 2025
Start Date: 1 September 2025
Eligible Applicants: Master’s graduates with a strong interest in international cooperation
Programme Overview
The PGP is a prestigious programme designed for individuals eager to contribute to global sustainable development. The 9-month course includes comprehensive seminars, workshops, and hands-on research opportunities. It provides participants with career-oriented coaching, a robust alumni network, and a platform to critically engage with key issues like postcolonial power structures in international cooperation.
Programme Structure
The Postgraduate Programme for Sustainability Cooperation (PGP) at the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) is a 9-month course commencing on 1 September 2025, designed to prepare master's graduates for careers in international cooperation and sustainable development. The programme is offered according to the following structure:
1. Academic Modules
Participants engage in ten three-day modules covering fundamental topics in international cooperation and current issues related to development and sustainability. These modules may include:
Introduction to development and sustainability
Critical perspectives on development cooperation
Social cohesion
Fragility and peace
Climate change
Biodiversity
Migration and forced displacement
EU external relations and development cooperation
A gender perspective is integrated across all modules, emphasizing its importance as a fundamental social structure. Additionally, peer-learning days are incorporated to facilitate mutual exchange and learning among participants.
2. Research Project:
Involvement in a transdisciplinary, international research project, including a three-month research stay, allows participants to apply theoretical knowledge to practical challenges.
3. Career Coaching:
Personalized coaching focuses on enhancing professional and social skills, supporting participants' career development in global cooperation.
📂 For detailed information, download the programme's curriculum PDF
Scholarship Benefits
Participants of the PGP will enjoy the following:
Monthly Stipend: €1,500 to cover living expenses.
No Tuition Fees: The programme is entirely free for all selected candidates.
Research Funding: Costs for the 3-month research stay are fully covered.
Skill Development: Workshops tailored to enhance both professional and social skills.
Career Opportunities: Access to IDOS’s trust-based alumni networks and direct connections with development cooperation employers.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the PGP, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Academic Qualifications: A master’s degree in economics, social sciences (e.g., political science, international relations, sociology, development studies), sustainability research, or related fields, obtained within the last five years.
Language Proficiency: C1 level in English is mandatory; C1 proficiency in German and knowledge of another language (preferably a UN language or Portuguese) is an asset.
Citizenship: German/EU citizenship or a permanent residence permit for Germany or the EU.
Experience: Relevant work, study, or internship experiences in Africa, Asia, or Latin America are advantageous.
Personal Motivation: Demonstrated interest in global cooperation for sustainable development.
ℹ️ Candidates with diverse experiences, including non-traditional career paths or prolonged studies due to personal challenges, are encouraged to apply.
Application Procedure
Applications for the 61st course are open from 9 January 2025 to 31 March 2025. Follow these steps to apply:
1. Prepare Documents:
To apply for the Postgraduate Programme for Sustainability Cooperation (PGP) at the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS), you will need to prepare and submit the following documents:
Completed Application Form: This form collects your personal details, educational background, language proficiency, professional experience, and motivation for applying. (Download here)
Academic Transcripts and Degree Certificates: Copies of your academic transcripts and certificates for your bachelor's and master's degrees.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV outlining your educational background, professional experience, internships, stays abroad, social engagement, and other relevant activities. Ensure that your CV highlights any experience related to international cooperation, development, or sustainability.
Residence permit (in the case of non-EU nationality)
2. Online Application
Ensure that all documents are prepared in English or German. If your original documents are in another language, provide certified translations.
Submit your complete application through the IDOS application portal during the application period, which runs annually between January and March for the programme starting on 1 September.
🌐 Refer to this webpage for detailed information about the application process.
3. Selection Process:
A pre-selection process will shortlist 48 candidates for the final digital interview round in May-June 2025.
4. Notification of Results:
Selected candidates will be informed after the expert committee evaluation.
ℹ️ Key Contact Information
Programme Head: Dr. Simone Christ (Simone.Christ@idos-research.de)
Team Assistant: Sophia Machavariani (Sophia.Machavariani@idos-research.de)
Programme Coordinator: Laura Jeske (Laura.Jeske@idos-research.de)
Enquiries: (postgradprogramme@idos-research.de)
🔗 OFFICIAL LINK
Comments