Master's Program in History

I'm from France and originally spent a semester abroad in Mannheim when I was completing my bachelor's degree at the University of Strasbourg. When it was time for me to choose a master’s program, I decided to return to Mannheim. I especially like the focus on Contemporary History, where teaching is always done with a great closeness to current issues. Moreover, during my semester abroad, I had already experienced that the subject of History and the Department of History in Mannheim ensure intensive contact between teachers and students and thus better support. I also enjoyed great support during my application and admission, since that process is not always easy to go through abroad with a French degree.

Martin Utsch, student of the master’s program in History / Credit: Jula Jacob
  • Program facts and information

    Degree: Master of Arts (M.A.)

    Standard period of study: 4 semesters (2 years)

    ECTS credits: approx. 120

    Language of instruction: German

    Language requirements: German (Click here for further information)

    Program start: Fall semester (September) and spring semester (February)
    Academic calendar

    School: School of Humanities

    Semester fee: € 204,30 (further information)
    Tuition fees for international students from non-EU countries: €1,500
    Tuition fees for a second degree: €650

  • Program overview

    The research-oriented master's program in History is based on a bachelor’s program in the same field of study. The core content of the program is the application-oriented study of current theories and research approaches in history. Students have the opportunity to choose their own specializations in the fields ofAncient History, Medieval History, Modern Times, Contemporary History and Economic History. During their studies, they are closely involved in current research projects at the Department of History.

    As part of a two-semester project work that is carried out in cooperation with museums, memorial sites, archives, publishing houses or media institutions, students will also expand their theoretical knowledge by gaining valuable practical experience in the communication of historical knowledge. 

    The elective module Interdisciplinary Diversification enables students enrolled in our master's program to broaden their horizon and take a look at areas outside their department, for example Sociology, Economic and Legal History, Economics, Media and Communication Studies or Political Science.

  • Why study History at the University of Mannheim?

    The Department of History maintains numerous cooperations with cultural institutions and international universities, enabling our students to gain valuable practical experience during their studies.

    Our teachers enjoy an excellent reputation both at national and international level. Due to individual advice provided by our subject-specific academic advisors, the program managers, and teachers as well as its academic profile, the Department of History stands out as an excellent institution for studying history in Germany.

    The Humanities at the University of Mannheim have an excellent reputation in Germany (take a look at the rankings). 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.

  • Career opportunities

    The master’s program in History is the perfect choice if you plan to continue your academic training with a doctoral program in order to pursue a career in science and research.

    The skills acquired during your studies also open up a wide range of opportunities: our graduates work in the fields of history mediation (in editorial departments or museums), business consulting, history marketing, book trade and publishing or public relations.

  • Required interests and skills

    Students of the master’s program in History should

    • have a pronounced interest in historical research and the mediation of history,
    • be able of critical and interdisciplinary thinking,
    • have a high level of motivation and willingness to work independently and in a targeted manner.
  • Program structure

    Module catalog
    You can find further details on how the program is structured in the module catalog.

    Studying abroad
    Master’s students can structure the program to suit their individual needs, which allows them to flexibly integrate a semester abroad into their studies. However, studying abroad is optional. The School of Humanities maintains international cooperation relationships with over 140 universities worldwide, and – in collaboration with the International Office – can help you plan a period of study abroad.

    Internships
    Completing an internship during the master’s program in History is optional. The program of study includes a two-semester project module that is designed to impart practical skills. If you would like to do a voluntary internship, the school will be in the best position to assist you with the organization thanks to its first-rate connections.

  • Continuing Education

    Certificate programs
    Strengthen your potential, deepen your knowledge, find solutions for challenges we will face tomorrow – there are many good reasons to think outside the box, get to know and try out new things even during your studies.

    At the University of Mannheim, you can do this in the “Studium Oecologicum” which focuses on sustainability. In our certificate program, you will acquire interdisciplinary expert knowledge which can help you to act ethically and to make holistic decisions.

    Continuing education services in academics

    Language courses
    Making language learning easier: No matter if you want to learn Japanese, Hebrew, Spanish or Norwegian, take the Graduate Record Examination Test (GRE), The European Language Certificates (telc) or the TOEFL test – each semester, the University of Mannheim offers language courses and language certificates in more than 16 languages for students and non-university members, online and on campus!

    Language courses at the University of Mannheim

    Studium Generale
    Are you interested in IT or communication trainings or theater, music, or drawing courses? Studium Generale has a vast range of courses available to all.

    Current Studium Generale program

  • Doctorates

    Successful graduates of the master’s program in History can pursue a doctorate at the School of Humanities. Please contact the program managers who will be happy to provide advice.

    Doctoral programs and opportunities at the School of Humanities
    General information on doctoral studies at the University of Mannheim

  • Admission requirements and selection

    In our selection process, we take numerous criteria into account. For more details, please check the selection statutes (see below). Be bold!

    Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need advice. We are looking forward to receiving your application!

    Applicants need to have a bachelor’s degree in History to be admitted to the master’s program in History. A degree in a different field is sufficient if it is recognized as equivalent by the admissions committee. The following requirements must be met:

    • a total of 180 ECTS credits or a standard period of study of six semesters,
    • a final grade of 2.5 or better.

    Language requirements
    You have to submit proof of German language proficiency at least equivalent to level C1. Click here for more information

    Conditional admission
    If you have not yet completed your bachelor’s program by the application deadline, you may still be admitted to the master’s program as long as you provide proof that you have obtained at least 135 ECTS credits. In this case, your admission to the program is subject to receipt of your bachelor’s degree by the exam registration period in the first semester (refer to selection statutes).

    Selection statutes
    Under “Admission requirements and selection” we have compiled the most important selection criteria of the program for you. For more detailed explanations of the selection process and the legally binding requirements of the degree program, please refer to the selection statutes.

  • Application

    Application deadline
    The application deadline for fall semesters starts on 01 April and ends on 31 May.

    For the spring semesters the application is possible from 16 October until 15 November.

Contact

Madeline Dahl

Madeline Dahl (she/her)

Program Manager Master of Arts
University of Mannheim
School of Humanities
Schloss – Room EO 287
68161 Mannheim
Consultation hour(s):
No consultation hour on 11 October 2023!

Tue und Wed 10–12 a.m.
Open consultation hours in room EO 287
Admissions Office

Admissions Office

University of Mannheim
L 1, 1 – Room 157, 158
68161 Mannheim

The University of Mannheim is the most popular university in Germany
In the students' vote on the Studycheck.de platform, the University of Mannheim has reached the top position among all universities. This makes the University of Mannheim the most popular university in Germany.
read more about the award  (in German)