History (Bachelor of Arts, B.A.)
We understand the study of History to be methodical research on the history of humankind as social beings, on the basis of a critically assured tradition (‘sources’).
Please choose
- Major Field of Study
- Minor Field of Study
Table of Contents
At a glance
Course structure and content
The study of History establishes witnessed historical circumstances, the contexts in which they occur, their interrelationships and effects, and then presents them in a way that is easy to understand and is as complete as possible. It adopts a methodological approach, takes a critical look at ideology and seeks to reveal the roots of the present through a dialectical process and to cast light on its historical structure. It enables us to better understand our own reality by tracing the origins of today’s political, social and cultural circumstances, and also enables us to experience quite different socio-political structures and manifestations of culture. It hones our awareness of historical continuities and discontinuities, and of the distinctiveness of our own age and other epochs.
The programme structure (period and in-depth modules) follows the pragmatic, traditional division into periods:
Ancient History: Ancient Greece and Rome from the 2nd century BC to the end of the Roman Empire 5th/6th century (Western Rome/Justinian/Arabian Expansion),
Medieval History Migration Period 5th/6th century to the end of the 15th century (Columbus/Luther),
Modern History 15th to 21st century
The range of subject areas that are available at the Department of History can be found here: https://www.geschichte.hu-berlin.de/en/bereiche-und-lehrstuehle-en/gesamtuebersicht-en
The course aims to give students a comprehensive specialist qualification for their subsequent career. The career options for historians are now better than ever.
Major field of study (113 CP)
This will allow you to then apply for the Master of Education programme as your first subject.
Mandatory modules (62 CP)
| Module | Title | Size |
|---|---|---|
| B-01 | General introduction | 15 CP |
| B-02 | Ancient History | 10 CP |
| B-03 | Medieval History | 10 CP |
| B-04 | Modern History | 10 CP |
| B-09 | Basics in teaching methodology and didactics | 7 CP |
| Bachelor’s thesis | 10 CP |
Mandatory elective Modules (30 CP)
Select 2 of the following in-depth modules:
| Module | Title | Size |
|---|---|---|
| B-05 | Ancient History | 15 CP |
| B-06 | Medieval History | 15 CP |
| B-07 | Modern History | 15 CP |
Teacher Training (16 CP)
Teacher training for students who wish to enter the teaching profession consists of the Educational Sciences Modules (11 CP) and a Language Training Module (5 CP), see Study and examination regulations for the Teacher training Modules.
General elective modules, ÜWP (5 CP)
In addition to specialised study, students acquire subject-specific, non-specialist and interdisciplinary key qualifications of 5 CP. Modules can be freely chosen from the designated module catalogues of other subjects or central institutions.
General elective course offerings for students coming from other courses of studies (ÜWP)
| Module | Size |
|---|---|
| Individual profile building I | 5 CP |
| Individual profile building II | 10 CP |
| Individual profile building III | 15 CP |
Special features
A broad knowledge of foreign languages is important for the successful study of History. Knowledge of two modern foreign languages and Latin can be helpful. However, language skills are not a prerequisite for application or enrolment, nor do they have to be acquired during the course.
An interest in critically analysing historical contexts, reflecting on theories, critically assessing hypotheses; enjoyment of intensive engagement with and discussion and writing of (foreign language) texts; firm command of the German language; communication skills and the willingness to engage in independent research.
Subject-specific admission and enrolment rules
Career opportunities & prospects
If you study Historical studies (without teacher training), you can then apply to HU for the Master’s programmes History and European History or Global History, for instance.
If you have chosen the teacher training option, at Humboldt-Universität you can also apply for the Master of Education in History.
Find out more in the overview of HU study programmes or via the database Hochschulkompass nationwide.
The study programme qualifies you for a range of jobs (business, public administration, social and political lobbying groups, media, publishing and more) or for continuing your studies in a master’s programme. As well as the traditional professional areas – school, academia and research, or museums and archives – history degrees are increasingly sought after in the areas of publishing and journalism or advisory work, for example for political parties and similar organisations.
To become a teacher, choose the teacher training option in your Bachelor's programme. Afterwards, you will enroll in a Master's degree programme, followed by an induction service as a trainee teacher (Referendariat) and a final examination (state examination).
More information on career prospects and alternatives can be found in the Berufenet database.
Study subject counselling and recognition of credits
Mr Dr. Conrad, R. 5053
ifg-koordination@hu-berlin.de
Phone: +49 30 2093-70661
Department of History
Instituts- und Verwaltungsgebäude, Friedrichstraße 191-193, 10117 Berlin