Applications are now open for the SLE Postgraduate Program in International Cooperation for Sustainable Development, a one-year advanced training program designed for graduates seeking a professional career in international cooperation and sustainable development. With more than six decades of experience in preparing professionals for the development sector, the program combines academic learning with practical field experience to equip participants with the skills, perspectives, and networks needed to work in international development contexts.

The program targets highly motivated Master’s graduates from diverse academic and professional backgrounds who are interested in deepening their understanding of sustainable development, development policy, and international cooperation. Each year, a small and internationally diverse cohort is selected to participate in an intensive learning experience based in Berlin. Participants benefit from interactive courses, practical methods training, teamwork, coaching, and applied research projects addressing real-world challenges in cooperation with partner organizations and institutions.

The study program runs from January to December and is divided into two phases. During the first phase, from January to the end of May, participants attend specialized technical and methodological courses aimed at strengthening their professional and analytical capacities. In the second phase, from June to December, participants work in small groups on Joint International Research Projects conducted both in Berlin and in partner countries. These projects provide an opportunity to apply acquired knowledge to practical development challenges while gaining hands-on international experience.

Applicants must hold a completed university degree qualifying for doctoral studies at Humboldt University of Berlin, including a Master’s degree, Diplom, state examination, or doctorate with at least good academic performance. The Master’s qualification must be completed before the beginning of the program in January. Relevant international exposure through internships, employment, or study stays in one or more countries is required, alongside a strong interest in development cooperation and high motivation for further professional training.

Excellent English language skills are mandatory, while additional language knowledge is considered an advantage, particularly German, French, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese, Russian, or Chinese. Applicants should also be prepared for assignments in countries of the Global South, including environments with limited healthcare access and increased health risks. Personal suitability and commitment to the objectives of the program are also essential selection criteria.

The scholarship opportunity is available to applicants who are citizens of an EU member state or a country classified as a transition or developing country according to the DAC list of ODA recipients.

The entire postgraduate program is fully funded through support from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the Berlin Senate, and Humboldt University of Berlin. Selected participants receive a monthly scholarship of 1,300 euros from January to December under the framework of the German Young Talent Promotion Act (NaFöG). Additional child support allowances may also be provided where applicable.

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