East and Central European Studies (Bachelor of Arts, B.A.)
The Bachelor's programme in Eastern and Central European Studies, offered by Humboldt-Universität and Freie Universität, is an interdisciplinary degree focusing on a vast region stretching as far as Central Asia. The programme helps students develop regional knowledge of this diverse and historically interconnected area.
Table of Contents
At a glance
Course structure and content
The joint Bachelor's degree program in East and Central European Studies at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Freie Universität Berlin offers an undergraduate degree program in which you will acquire interdisciplinary regional expertise. East and Central Europe form a region that geographically encompasses East Europe and the eastern parts of Central Europe as well as Southeastern Europe and Russia with its Eurasian links to the Caucasus and Central Asia. It is closely linked to Germany in economic, political and cultural terms. The region is characterized by ethnic, linguistic and religious diversity and is a prime example of the interweaving of histories and societies - both in a fruitful way and in conflict. Expertise in Eastern and Central Europe is therefore highly relevant. The study program combines insight into historical backgrounds and current developments with a global understanding of intercultural and transnational contexts. A better knowledge of East and Central Europe and its languages prepares students for the challenges of our time.
Mandatory modules (120 CP)
| Module | Title | Size |
|---|---|---|
| E 1 | Introduction to the Course | 10 CP |
| E 2 | History and Culture | 10 CP |
| E 3 | Language and Culture | 10 CP |
| E 4 | Political Economy | 10 CP |
| E 5 | Literature and Culture | 10 CP |
| BA | Bachelor's thesis | 10 CP |
Language Practice
The required language practical training takes place at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin. Currently, the following languages are offered: Bosnian/Croatian/Montenegrin/Serbian (BKMS), Bulgarian, Polish, Russian, Slovak, Czech, Ukrainian, and Hungarian. Please inquire about the available courses in advance. In your core language, you will typically need to complete 4 consecutive modules from the language practical modules SP 1 to SP 6 (20 CP).
In your second chosen language, you will need to complete 2 consecutive modules from the language offerings SP 1 to SP 6 (10 CP).
| Module | Title | Size |
|---|---|---|
| SP 1 | Language Practice I | 5 CP |
| SP 2 | Language Practice II | 5 CP |
| SP 3 | Language Practice III | 5 CP |
| SP 4 | Language Practice IV | 5 CP |
| SP 5 | Language Practice V | 5 CP |
| SP 6 | Language Practice VI | 5 CP |
Specialization
Select 1 of the following modules:
| Module | Title | Size |
|---|---|---|
| SPEZ 1 | Semester abroad | 30 CP |
| SPEZ 2 | Domestic Semester | 30 CP |
Mandatory elective modules (40 CP)
Select 4 of the following modules. At least 20 CP from modules WP 1 to WP 5 must be completed at Freie Universität Berlin:
| Module | Title | Size |
|---|---|---|
| WP 1 | (Eastern) Europe: Transregional and Global | 10 CP |
| WP 2 | Transformations, Developments, Upheavals | 10 CP |
| WP 3 | Spaces, Memories, Identities | 10 CP |
| WP 4 | Power, Violence, Protest | 10 CP |
| WP 5 | Additional Language Qualification | 10 CP |
| WP 6 | Practical Orientation | 10 CP |
| WP 7 | Internship | 10 CP |
General elective modules, ÜWP (20 CP)
In addition to specialised study, students acquire subject-specific, non-specialist and interdisciplinary key qualifications of 20 CP. Modules can be freely chosen from the designated module catalogues of other subjects or central institutions.
Special features
Previous knowledge of the languages to be studied is not required. During your studies, you will learn two languages of the region, which you can choose freely according to the current range of courses on offer or any previous knowledge you may already have.
The Bachelor’s programme in East and Central European Studies is characterised by its emphasis on interdisciplinary regional expertise. Students analyse the diversity of the broader region (including Southeastern Europe and Russia) and its global interconnections. The programme combines solid academic knowledge and historical insight with comprehensive proficiency in at least two regional languages.
Career opportunities & prospects
With a Bachelor of Arts degree in East and Central European Studies, you can study the Master's program “Transregional Studies” at the HU or “East European Studies” at the FU.
Find out more in the overview of HU study programmes or via the database Hochschulkompass nationwide.
You will qualify for jobs in the German-language and international print and media world, in public relations, in organizations, foundations and associations, in cultural, publishing and academic management, in further education and science, etc.
More information on career prospects and alternatives can be found in the Berufenet database.
Study subject counselling
Zornitza Kazalarska-Zhivkova
Contact information for the faculty
Department of Slavic Studies
Boeckh-Haus, Dorotheenstraße 65, 10117 Berlin