Study History as a Bachelor's degree
Bachelor's Program in History
Additional program facts and information
Language proficiency
You need to be proficient in German (see “Application and selection”). In addition, a good level of English proficiency is recommended.Program start
Fall semester (September)
Academic calendarSemester fee: EUR 194 (more information)
Tuition fees for international students from non-EU countries: EUR 1,500
Tuition fees for a second degree: EUR 650Possible master’s program
- Master’s program in History (M.A.)
Program overview
Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in History learn about cultural systems and historical developments in society. In Mannheim, the program focuses on cultures and societies in Europe and America but also on economic, legal, and social history. In addition, you will gain an overview of all historical periods from antiquity to the present day. However, the focus is on modern history.
In this program, you can choose a humanities or social sciences subject, such as German Studies, Philosophy, Political Science, or Curating and Presenting History (a subject designed specifically for this program), as your minor. This enables you to gain interdisciplinary insights (depending on your minor) and enhance your individual professional profile.
Why study the bachelor’s program in History at the University of Mannheim?
Numerous collaborations
The Department of History collaborates with a number of international higher education institutions and cultural establishments, which students of the program can benefit from.International focus
With 450 partner universities and students from 100 countries, Mannheim is one of the most international universities in the country and provides students with an inspiring learning environment that facilitates excellent teaching and research.Working in small groups and good student-teacher ratio
Students at the School of Humanities value the ability to work interactively in small groups and the favorable student-teacher ratio. The program managers will be happy to answer any questions you may have about organizing your studies. Academic advisors and teachers at the relevant department will help you with any questions about the program.Career opportunities
In the bachelor's program in History, you will acquire not only subject-specific expertise but also general key competences such as research and presentation skills, analytical skills, complex thinking, and critical reflection. This qualifies graduates for a large number of professions in cultural institutions, the private sector, or public institutions. Graduates can also work in public relations, cultural management, publishing houses, or journalism. If you decide to get a master’s degree in History, you can also pursue a career in academia.
Studying abroad and internships
Studying abroad
The School of Humanities maintains collaborations with more than 150 partner universities worldwide. Our team for international affairs will support you in planning a stay abroad. The perfect time for students to go abroad is the fourth or fifth subject-specific semester, but individual arrangements are possible. Studying abroad to enhance your intercultural competencies is recommended but not mandatory when studying this program. We also offer field trips and interdisciplinary seminars in cooperation with international universities.Internships
A six-week internship in Germany or abroad is an integral part of your studies. Further information and points of contact for all questions relating to internships and career entry can be found on the website of the School of Humanities.Interests and skills
If you wish to study History, you should
- be interested in history—from antiquity to the present day,
- have a very good level of German and a good level of English proficiency,
- have an academic interest in methods and theories,
- like to critically question and reflect on various topics,
- enjoy interpreting sources such as texts, artifacts, or visual sources,
- enjoy writing academic texts,
- be interested in presenting content.
Financing and funding
Scholarships
The University of Mannheim offers various scholarships. This funding enables you to focus on your academic achievements and continue your voluntary work alongside your studies.
Scholarship overview
Funding opportunities for international degree-seeking studentsFinancial aid for students
The Studierendenwerk is the first place to contact if you have any questions on how to finance your studies. They will give you advice on BAföG and tell you about other funding options.
Go to the StudierendenwerkApplication and selection
Important information on the awarding of study places
- For your application to be successful, you must apply in due time and form and fulfill the admission requirements for your chosen program of study.
- If a program of study is selective, the selection criteria set out in the relevant selection statutes apply in addition to the admission requirements. The University of Mannheim does not apply a numerus clausus system (grade-point average for admission to certain programs of study).
- All of our bachelor's programs require German language skills. If you do not have a German university entrance qualification (Abitur or equivalent qualification), you must submit proof of proficiency in German at C1 level.
The bachelor’s program in History is currently selective. The following selection criteria are taken into account:
- grade average achieved in your university entrance qualification
- the grades achieved in a subject relating to Social Science
- relevant practical work experience or extracurricular activities
Application period
- Selective programs: from 1 June until 15 July
- Non-selective programs: from 1 June until 31 August
Program structure
Semester 1
- History
- Lecture: Einführung in die Geschichtswissenschaft
- Exercise course: Historische Theorie or Archiv- und Quellenkunde
- Prep course: Altertum
- Introductory seminar and tutorial: Altertum
- Prep course: Neuzeit
- Minor
- Course 1
- Course 2
Semester 2
- History
- Lecture: Kulturgeschichte
- Exercise course: Statistische Grundlagen
- Prep course: Mittelalter
- Introductory seminar and tutorial: Mittelalter
- Prep course: Neuzeit
- Minor
- Course 1
- Course 2
Semester 3
- History
- Introductory seminar and tutorial: Wirtschafts- und Sozialgeschichte
- Lecture: Mittelalter
- Introductory seminar and tutorial: Neuzeit
- Professional qualification course
- Minor
- Course 1
- Course 2
Semester 4
- History
- Lecture, exercise course and advanced seminar: Altertum
- Advanced seminar: Mittelalter
- Professional qualification course
- Internship
- Minor
- Course 1
- Course 2
Semester 5
- History
- Exercise course: Mittelalter
- Lecture: Neuzeit
- Elective module: Interdisziplinäre Kulturwissenschaft
- Lecture: International Cultural Studies
- Seminar or lecture: Interdisziplinäre Kulturwissenschaft
- Seminar or lecture: Interdisziplinäre Kulturwissenschaft
Semester 6
- History
- Exercise course and advanced seminar: Neuzeit
- Bachelor's thesis
- Final oral examination
Course names are listed in the original language.
Studying History at the University of Mannheim gives me the opportunity to understand where we come from and how societies have developed to where they stand today. During my studies, I analyze sources from antiquity to the modern age. It opened my eyes to a time that is characterized by diversity and differentiation. This time comes back to life for me and I understand the consequences that can be derived from it—especially for us today. The courses offered in the Department of History are truly diverse. In addition, there are many opportunities for students to be involved.
Other degree programs you may be interested in ...
Contact
Caterina Katzer (she/her)
School of Humanities
Schloss – Room EO 282
68161 Mannheim
Tue 10–12 a.m.
Open consultation hours in room 282
Wed 10–12 a.m.
Online consultation hours – please make an appointment via https://www.phil.uni-mannheim.de/en/academics/virtual-office-hours/
Dr. Angelika Konrad-Schineller
School of Humanities
Schloss – Room EO 282
68161 Mannheim
Tue 10–12 a.m.
Open consultation hours in room 282
Wed 10–12 a.m.
Online consultation hours – please make an appointment via https://www.phil.uni-mannheim.de/en/academics/virtual-office-hours/
Admissions Office
L 1, 1 – Room 157, 158
68161 Mannheim