Global Politics and Society (GPS)
In-person programme
Global Politics and Society (GPS)
Course sheet
A.Y. 2026/2027
Master programme
LM-62 R - Scienze della politica
Global Politics and Society (GPS) is a two-year master's degree programme, entirely taught in English. Students of this programme will benefit from a multidisciplinary training of the highest quality, aimed at preparing highly-qualified professionals, able to understand and interpret complex social and political dynamics arising in the wake of globalization, within a scenario of increased international interdependences. Core modules will bridge cutting-edge concepts and skills necessary to address key contemporary questions, extending from global geopolitics dynamics to the transformation of societies, from developments in international political economy to changing patterns of social inequalities. Students will
then have the opportunity to strengthen their preparation in specific thematic areas, choosing from a wide range of options made possible thanks to the several lines of research that characterize the Department of Social and Political Sciences, which stands out as one of the best performing department for social and political sciences research in Italy.
During the last decades, globalization processes have been challenging the functioning of western societies across a wide range of domains: from political participation and representation to welfare states? structures and labour market regulation; from citizenship's rights and migration, to the threats concerning novel forms of discrimination and exclusion. The complexity, as well as the interdependent nature of those challenges, require professionals able to understand and interpret, in a way that is at the same time rigorous, theoretically informed and methodologically sound, how and in which directions globalization processes are affecting the functioning of contemporary societies and polities.
The master?s degree in Global Politics and Society addresses the above-mentioned task, relying on a genuinely multidisciplinary approach, developed through a coherent path consisting of:
- a core package of six compulsory courses - meant to provide an advanced training in the fields of political science and sociology, complemented by key competences in the area of law and economics (54 credits);
- five elective courses, that allow students to strengthen their competences in specific thematic areas, within a rich offer of options (36 credits);
- other additional elective and optional activities (15 credits);
- a research dissertation (15 credits).
then have the opportunity to strengthen their preparation in specific thematic areas, choosing from a wide range of options made possible thanks to the several lines of research that characterize the Department of Social and Political Sciences, which stands out as one of the best performing department for social and political sciences research in Italy.
During the last decades, globalization processes have been challenging the functioning of western societies across a wide range of domains: from political participation and representation to welfare states? structures and labour market regulation; from citizenship's rights and migration, to the threats concerning novel forms of discrimination and exclusion. The complexity, as well as the interdependent nature of those challenges, require professionals able to understand and interpret, in a way that is at the same time rigorous, theoretically informed and methodologically sound, how and in which directions globalization processes are affecting the functioning of contemporary societies and polities.
The master?s degree in Global Politics and Society addresses the above-mentioned task, relying on a genuinely multidisciplinary approach, developed through a coherent path consisting of:
- a core package of six compulsory courses - meant to provide an advanced training in the fields of political science and sociology, complemented by key competences in the area of law and economics (54 credits);
- five elective courses, that allow students to strengthen their competences in specific thematic areas, within a rich offer of options (36 credits);
- other additional elective and optional activities (15 credits);
- a research dissertation (15 credits).
Analyst of social and political phenomena in the global scenario
Function in a work context:
Graduates in Global Politics and Society will be able to analyse - contextualizing them in the global scenario - complex socio-economic and political phenomena that characterize the relational and institutional structure of societies contemporary and pertain to different areas of public policy. The areas of expertise include: the analysis of the transformations induced by the processes of globalization and their own implications both on a global and local scale,
the dynamics of discrimination and empowerment processes of discriminated social categories, welfare and anti-poverty policies, labour policies, rights humans.
Skills associated with the function:
Through the educational path, graduates acquire broad critical knowledge of the main social theories of the globalization processes, contemporary dynamics relating to democratization and cooperation processes and development, of intercultural relations and transformation of citizenship, also in relation to social and public rights Work. He also has solid methodological skills, both qualitative and quantitative. The profile of magistrate graduates is characterized by an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the social dimensions, political, juridical, economic and cultural aspects of globalization processes, both as regards relations international and local effects.
The master's graduate in Global Politics and Society therefore possesses advanced knowledge and skills for understand and evaluate the functioning of political institutions in different socio-economic contexts and the implications generated by processes that occur on a global scale.
Employment opportunities:
Global Politics and Society master graduates will be able to pursue several professional careers in one multiplicity of sectors, proposing themselves as specialists capable of interpreting political, economic and social issues in the global scenario and to develop medium and long-term strategic plans: 1) in the field of research applied, in the field of social and political sciences; 2) at national and international institutions and organizations non-governmental; 3) in public, private or third sector companies operating on the global market; 4) in the sectors information, publishing and cultural industries.
By way of example, they may apply to hold positions of responsibility in public, private or third party bodies sector, inserted in national and international contexts or in the global market, including: public bodies and governmental bodies (Ministries, General Directorates, institutions and bodies responsible for the design, implementation and evaluation of policies social and labour, anti-discrimination policies and cooperation and development policies (both local and
international); community and transnational bodies (multilateral agencies of the United Nations, the European Union, the World Bank, the OECD, etc.); non-governmental and third sector bodies engaged in subsidiary actions of implementation of social and labour, cultural, educational and development cooperation policies.
Master's graduates in Global Politics and Society will also acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to access second level masters and/or to continue training at doctoral level, in Italy and abroad.
Employment statistics (Almalaurea)
Function in a work context:
Graduates in Global Politics and Society will be able to analyse - contextualizing them in the global scenario - complex socio-economic and political phenomena that characterize the relational and institutional structure of societies contemporary and pertain to different areas of public policy. The areas of expertise include: the analysis of the transformations induced by the processes of globalization and their own implications both on a global and local scale,
the dynamics of discrimination and empowerment processes of discriminated social categories, welfare and anti-poverty policies, labour policies, rights humans.
Skills associated with the function:
Through the educational path, graduates acquire broad critical knowledge of the main social theories of the globalization processes, contemporary dynamics relating to democratization and cooperation processes and development, of intercultural relations and transformation of citizenship, also in relation to social and public rights Work. He also has solid methodological skills, both qualitative and quantitative. The profile of magistrate graduates is characterized by an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the social dimensions, political, juridical, economic and cultural aspects of globalization processes, both as regards relations international and local effects.
The master's graduate in Global Politics and Society therefore possesses advanced knowledge and skills for understand and evaluate the functioning of political institutions in different socio-economic contexts and the implications generated by processes that occur on a global scale.
Employment opportunities:
Global Politics and Society master graduates will be able to pursue several professional careers in one multiplicity of sectors, proposing themselves as specialists capable of interpreting political, economic and social issues in the global scenario and to develop medium and long-term strategic plans: 1) in the field of research applied, in the field of social and political sciences; 2) at national and international institutions and organizations non-governmental; 3) in public, private or third sector companies operating on the global market; 4) in the sectors information, publishing and cultural industries.
By way of example, they may apply to hold positions of responsibility in public, private or third party bodies sector, inserted in national and international contexts or in the global market, including: public bodies and governmental bodies (Ministries, General Directorates, institutions and bodies responsible for the design, implementation and evaluation of policies social and labour, anti-discrimination policies and cooperation and development policies (both local and
international); community and transnational bodies (multilateral agencies of the United Nations, the European Union, the World Bank, the OECD, etc.); non-governmental and third sector bodies engaged in subsidiary actions of implementation of social and labour, cultural, educational and development cooperation policies.
Master's graduates in Global Politics and Society will also acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to access second level masters and/or to continue training at doctoral level, in Italy and abroad.
Employment statistics (Almalaurea)
The degree in Global Politics and Society offers the opportunity to study at several European universities, where students will be able to attend lectures and obtain credits for their degree.
Furthermore, GPS is part of a prestigious inter-university network: the network of European Masters in Labour Studies - EMLS. The other partners of the network are: Université catholique de Louvain, Universität Bremen, Universität Trier, University of Warwick, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Université Toulouse, University College Dublin, Università degli Studi di Firenze, University of Amsterdam, Instituto Universitario de Lisboa, National University of Political Studies and Public Administration of Romania, Univerza v Ljubljani. Each partner has agreed to recognize the teaching and evaluation methods of partner institutions as well as the equivalence of their curricula. Students may attend a semester in one of the EMLS partner universities. Accordingly, any examination passed at any university in the network is fully and automatically recognized.
GPS students may also obtain a double degree, jointly recognized by the University of Milan and the University of Bremen, following a specific path, focused on welfare and employment matters, and attending the first year at University of Bremen.
Moreover, GPS students may also obtain a triple degree, jointly recognized by the University of Milan, the University of Geneva and the ISIT-University of Paris-Panthéon-Assas, following a specific path, focused on citizenship studies, and attending the first semester of the first year at the University of Geneva, the second semester of the first year at the University of Milan and the first semester of the second year at the ISIT-University of Paris-Panthéon-Assas. Students can attend second semester of the second year in the institution of their choice, depending on their personal objectives and, in particular, whether they choose to write a thesis or complete an internship.
Furthermore, GPS is part of a prestigious inter-university network: the network of European Masters in Labour Studies - EMLS. The other partners of the network are: Université catholique de Louvain, Universität Bremen, Universität Trier, University of Warwick, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Université Toulouse, University College Dublin, Università degli Studi di Firenze, University of Amsterdam, Instituto Universitario de Lisboa, National University of Political Studies and Public Administration of Romania, Univerza v Ljubljani. Each partner has agreed to recognize the teaching and evaluation methods of partner institutions as well as the equivalence of their curricula. Students may attend a semester in one of the EMLS partner universities. Accordingly, any examination passed at any university in the network is fully and automatically recognized.
GPS students may also obtain a double degree, jointly recognized by the University of Milan and the University of Bremen, following a specific path, focused on welfare and employment matters, and attending the first year at University of Bremen.
Moreover, GPS students may also obtain a triple degree, jointly recognized by the University of Milan, the University of Geneva and the ISIT-University of Paris-Panthéon-Assas, following a specific path, focused on citizenship studies, and attending the first semester of the first year at the University of Geneva, the second semester of the first year at the University of Milan and the first semester of the second year at the ISIT-University of Paris-Panthéon-Assas. Students can attend second semester of the second year in the institution of their choice, depending on their personal objectives and, in particular, whether they choose to write a thesis or complete an internship.
Attendance is highly recommended
Enrolment
The programme is intended for top-level international students.
Admission is based on academic excellence. Applicants should have a bachelor's degree or equivalent; a strong interest and/or previous studies in political science, sociology or related subjects; a sound knowledge of
English language.
The evaluation process will take into consideration the applicants bachelor degree score (or equivalent) as well as the entrance test. The calendar of this entrance test, as well as all details about its delivery, will be
posted every year by early spring on the UNIMI website (https://www.unimi.it/it/corsi/corsi-di-laurea/global-politics-and- society-gps) as well as on the specific GPS website (https://gps.cdl.unimi.it/en). Candidates who
do not pass the entrance test can sit again the test the following year.
Applicants who obtained their bachelor's degrees from Italian Universities are eligible for admission only if they hold a "laurea" degree belonging to any one of the "classi di laurea" (degree classes) listed below under
the heading "Note 1".
Applicants who completed their undergraduate studies in foreign Universities are eligible for admission if they hold a bachelor's degree in political science, sociology, economics or other broadly related subjects (from history to legal studies, philosophy, and so on), provided that their bachelor's degree may be regarded as equivalent to one of the Italian "laurea" degrees listed below (Note 1).
L-05 Filosofia;
L-11 Lingue e Culture Moderne; L-12 Mediazione Linguistica;
L-14 Scienze dei Servizi Giuridici;
L-16 Scienze dell'Amministrazione dell'Organizzazione; L- l8 Scienze dell'Economia e della Gestione Aziendale; L-20 Scienze della Comunicazione;
L-33 Scienze Economiche;
L-36 Scienze Politiche e delle Relazioni Internazionali
L-37 Scienze Sociali per la Cooperazione, lo Sviluppo e la Pace;
L-39 Scienze del Servizio Sociale;
L-40 Sociologia;
L-41 Statistica;
L-42 Storia.
Non-native English speakers must be able to demonstrate their knowledge of English. At least a B2 level is required. The possessing of a IELTS or TOEFL will be taken into account. Candidates can also prove their knowledge of English if they have at least one year of university studies at institutions where English is the main language.
The GPS admissions committee will ascertain the B2-level requirement.
Admission is based on academic excellence. Applicants should have a bachelor's degree or equivalent; a strong interest and/or previous studies in political science, sociology or related subjects; a sound knowledge of
English language.
The evaluation process will take into consideration the applicants bachelor degree score (or equivalent) as well as the entrance test. The calendar of this entrance test, as well as all details about its delivery, will be
posted every year by early spring on the UNIMI website (https://www.unimi.it/it/corsi/corsi-di-laurea/global-politics-and- society-gps) as well as on the specific GPS website (https://gps.cdl.unimi.it/en). Candidates who
do not pass the entrance test can sit again the test the following year.
Applicants who obtained their bachelor's degrees from Italian Universities are eligible for admission only if they hold a "laurea" degree belonging to any one of the "classi di laurea" (degree classes) listed below under
the heading "Note 1".
Applicants who completed their undergraduate studies in foreign Universities are eligible for admission if they hold a bachelor's degree in political science, sociology, economics or other broadly related subjects (from history to legal studies, philosophy, and so on), provided that their bachelor's degree may be regarded as equivalent to one of the Italian "laurea" degrees listed below (Note 1).
L-05 Filosofia;
L-11 Lingue e Culture Moderne; L-12 Mediazione Linguistica;
L-14 Scienze dei Servizi Giuridici;
L-16 Scienze dell'Amministrazione dell'Organizzazione; L- l8 Scienze dell'Economia e della Gestione Aziendale; L-20 Scienze della Comunicazione;
L-33 Scienze Economiche;
L-36 Scienze Politiche e delle Relazioni Internazionali
L-37 Scienze Sociali per la Cooperazione, lo Sviluppo e la Pace;
L-39 Scienze del Servizio Sociale;
L-40 Sociologia;
L-41 Statistica;
L-42 Storia.
Non-native English speakers must be able to demonstrate their knowledge of English. At least a B2 level is required. The possessing of a IELTS or TOEFL will be taken into account. Candidates can also prove their knowledge of English if they have at least one year of university studies at institutions where English is the main language.
The GPS admissions committee will ascertain the B2-level requirement.
Enrolment
Application for admission: from 22/01/2026 to 20/07/2026
Application for enrolment: from 05/05/2026 to 15/01/2027
Attachments and documents
Non-EU students visa applicants are required to apply for admission no later than 30 April 2026.
Online services
Learn more:
Programme description and courses list
First trimester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Global Social Dynamics | 9 | 60 | English | GSPS-05/A |
| Globalization and Cultural Diversity | 6 | 40 | English | GSPS-06/A |
| Multi-Level Legal System | 9 | 60 | English | GIUR-04/A |
| Optional | ||||
| Globalization, Social Justice and Human Rights | 9 | 60 | English | GSPS-06/A |
Second trimester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Comparative Political Economy and the Welfare State | 12 | 80 | English | ECON-02/A GSPS-02/A |
| Optional | ||||
| Comparative Politics and Development | 9 | 60 | English | GSPS-02/A |
| Economic of Social Regulation of Global Workforce | 9 | 60 | English | GSPS-08/A |
| International Migration and Immigration Policies | 9 | 60 | English | GSPS-08/B |
Third trimester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Global Social Inequalities | 9 | 60 | English | GSPS-08/A |
| Optional | ||||
| Global Citizenship | 9 | 60 | English | GSPS-05/A |
| Human Rights At Work in International and Comparative Law | 9 | 60 | Italian | GIUR-04/A |
Optional activities and study plan rules
1 - Students must earn 18 credits by selecting two of the following alternatives
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | Lesson period | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparative Politics and Development | 9 | 60 | English | Second trimester | GSPS-02/A |
| Economic of Social Regulation of Global Workforce | 9 | 60 | English | Second trimester | GSPS-08/A |
| Global Citizenship | 9 | 60 | English | Third trimester | GSPS-05/A |
| Globalization, Social Justice and Human Rights | 9 | 60 | English | First trimester | GSPS-06/A |
| Human Rights At Work in International and Comparative Law | 9 | 60 | Italian | Third trimester | GIUR-04/A |
| International Migration and Immigration Policies | 9 | 60 | English | Second trimester | GSPS-08/B |
be activated by the A.Y. 2027/2028
Open sessions
There are no specific sessions for these activities.
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Global Politics | 9 | 60 | English | GSPS-02/A |
| Optional | ||||
| Consumer Culture | 6 | 40 | English | GSPS-06/A |
| Datafied Society | 6 | 40 | English | GSPS-06/A |
| Employment, Inequalities and Discrimination in the Global Labour Market | 6 | 40 | English | GIUR-04/A GSPS-08/A |
| Gender Theory and Social Issues | 6 | 40 | English | GSPS-05/A |
| Global Challenges to Democracy | 6 | 40 | English | GSPS-02/A |
| Global Public Policy and the Knowledge Society | 6 | 40 | English | GSPS-02/A |
| Journalism,media and Politics | 6 | 40 | English | GSPS-06/A |
| Liberal Rights and Social Justice | 6 | 40 | English | GIUR-17/A |
| Social Justice in a Global World | 6 | 40 | English | GSPS-01/A |
| The Welfare State and Social Innovation | 6 | 40 | English | GSPS-02/A |
| Value Change and Global Societies | 6 | 40 | English | GSPS-05/A |
Conclusive activities
There are no specific sessions for these activities.
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compulsory | ||||
| Final exam | 15 | 0 | English | NN |
Optional activities and study plan rules
2 - Students must earn 18 credits by selecting three of the following alternatives
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | Lesson period | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Consumer Culture | 6 | 40 | English | Open sessions | GSPS-06/A |
| Datafied Society | 6 | 40 | English | Open sessions | GSPS-06/A |
| Employment, Inequalities and Discrimination in the Global Labour Market | 6 | 40 | English | Open sessions | GIUR-04/A GSPS-08/A |
| Gender Theory and Social Issues | 6 | 40 | English | Open sessions | GSPS-05/A |
| Global Challenges to Democracy | 6 | 40 | English | Open sessions | GSPS-02/A |
| Global Public Policy and the Knowledge Society | 6 | 40 | English | Open sessions | GSPS-02/A |
| Journalism,media and Politics | 6 | 40 | English | Open sessions | GSPS-06/A |
| Liberal Rights and Social Justice | 6 | 40 | English | Open sessions | GIUR-17/A |
| Social Justice in a Global World | 6 | 40 | English | Open sessions | GSPS-01/A |
| The Welfare State and Social Innovation | 6 | 40 | English | Open sessions | GSPS-02/A |
| Value Change and Global Societies | 6 | 40 | English | Open sessions | GSPS-05/A |
First trimester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optional | ||||
| Research Methods in Social and Political Science | 9 | 60 | English | GSPS-02/A GSPS-05/A GSPS-08/A |
Second trimester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optional | ||||
| Data Lab | 3 | 20 | English | GSPS-02/A |
| Dissertation Lab | 3 | 20 | English | GSPS-05/A |
Third trimester
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optional | ||||
| Lab. Contentious Citizenship and Global Seams | 3 | 20 | English | NN |
| Lab. Qualitative Methods and Empirical Research: Space | 3 | 20 | English | GSPS-08/B |
Open sessions
There are no specific sessions for these activities.
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Optional | ||||
| Additional Language Skills: Italian (3 ECTS) | 3 | 0 | Italian | NN |
| Advanced Language Skills: French (3 ECTS) | 3 | 0 | French | NN |
| Advanced Language Skills: German (3 ECTS) | 3 | 0 | German | NN |
| Advanced Language Skills: Spanish (3 ECTS) | 3 | 0 | Spanish | NN |
| Lab. Studying Cultural Change with Quantitative Methods | 3 | 20 | English | GSPS-05/A |
Optional activities and study plan rules
- Student must earn 6 credits by selecting among the following activities: Internship (6 or 3 ECTS), Additional/advanced Language skills (3 ECTS) and Laboratories and other activities (3 ECTS)
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | Lesson period | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Additional Language Skills: Italian (3 ECTS) | 3 | 0 | Italian | Open sessions | NN |
| Advanced Language Skills: French (3 ECTS) | 3 | 0 | French | Open sessions | NN |
| Advanced Language Skills: German (3 ECTS) | 3 | 0 | German | Open sessions | NN |
| Advanced Language Skills: Spanish (3 ECTS) | 3 | 0 | Spanish | Open sessions | NN |
| Data Lab | 3 | 20 | English | Second trimester | GSPS-02/A |
| Dissertation Lab | 3 | 20 | English | Second trimester | GSPS-05/A |
| Lab. Contentious Citizenship and Global Seams | 3 | 20 | English | Third trimester | NN |
| Lab. Qualitative Methods and Empirical Research: Space | 3 | 20 | English | Third trimester | GSPS-08/B |
- Students must earn 9 credits for elective activities
Among these activities, students can choose also "Research methods in social and political science"
Among these activities, students can choose also "Research methods in social and political science"
| Courses or activities | Max ECTS | Total hours | Language | Lesson period | SSD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Research Methods in Social and Political Science | 9 | 60 | English | First trimester | GSPS-02/A GSPS-05/A GSPS-08/A |
Learn more
Guidance:
Admission, ranking and enrolment
Milan
Academic guidance tutor
Erasmus and international mobility tutor
Internship tutor
Quality Assurance Delegate
Reference structures
Contacts
- Degree Course E-mail
[email protected] - Services for students with disabilities
https://www.unimi.it/en/study/student-services/services-students-disabilities - Services for students with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD)
https://www.unimi.it/en/study/student-services/services-students-specific-learning-disabilities-sld - Student Registrar
https://www.unimi.it/en/study/student-services/welcome-desk-informastudenti
For students enrolled in Bachelor's, Master's and single-cycle degree programmes, tuition fees are to be paid in two instalments:
- the amount of the first instalment is the same for all students and is due upon enrolment
- the amount of the second instalment varies according to each student's ISEE University value and the degree programme in which they are enrolled
- for international students with income and assets abroad, the second instalment varies according to their country of origin.
Education incentive programmes and other benefits
The University offers scholarships, cafeterias, subsidised accommodation and other forms of financial support to students meeting specific economic and merit requirements.
More information
Official documents