Study History

Study History Abroad

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Most people still remember when the Second World War took place. But how did the Nazis come to power? And why is a conflict still smoldering in the Middle East today? History students can answer such questions. During their studies they learn everything about events in the past that influence our lives to this day . It is not so much about memorizing years and names, but rather about understanding larger historical contexts.

History as a subject

Almost every university in Germany offers history as a subject. It is usually divided into these three major epochs :

  • Old story
  • Medieval story
  • Modern times

Bachelor degree

In the first semesters, the students get a rough overview of the three epochs . You will learn, for example, which Roman emperors there were, why the French Revolution came about, or what were the causes of the Cold War. The methods of historical science are also on the curriculum. The students learn, among other things, to evaluate historical sources and to write scientific texts. At most universities, you can then set a focus in the higher semesters . You can choose from periods of time from the three epochs, certain regions , but also topics such as the history of religion or gender history .

Master’s degree

According to usprivateschoolsfinder, prospective history teachers have to complete a master’s degree with a pedagogical focus after completing their bachelor’s degree in order to be able to go to school. But even those who later want to do a doctorate and pursue a scientific career should follow a master’s degree in a history study course. A master’s degree also qualifies for management positions in business. The master’s course primarily serves to specialize and acquire additional scientific skills . The range of master’s programs is diverse. Depending on the university, individual epochs or regions or topics such as social or military history are available.

Requirements for studying history

Applicants for a degree should be aware of the high level of learning required during their studies. Historians are expected to have a good command of foreign languages . Many universities require a Latinum . Those who have not already acquired this in school can do it in the first semesters of the Bachelor’s degree. Those who specialize in Ancient History usually have to take additional courses in Ancient Greek . Students specializing in Latin American history should study Spanish or Portuguese. In addition, the students also have to read a lot of extensive specialist literature. As this is often written in English, a good command of English is mandatory.

Professions for historians

Many history students study to become teachers . After completing their master’s degree or state examination, they usually start teaching with a legal clerkship. For all other graduates, their professional career is not so clearly specified. As for other humanities scholars, there is no clearly defined job profile for historians . It is advisable to complete internships during your studies in order to get a taste of different areas of work and to gain practical experience. The classic employers of historians include museums, archives and libraries. Graduates design exhibitions, for example, are responsible for the collection and preservation of historical sources or manage the holdings of libraries. Many historians also find jobs in other professions . For example , they work as journalists , work in press and public relations agencies , are employed as scientific consultants for political parties or find positions with foundations.

Advantages of studying history abroad

Students who specialize in a certain region should plan at least one semester abroad in order to obtain further training on site . But a semester abroad is also worthwhile for all other history students. Ultimately, they improve their foreign language skills and acquire many other additional qualifications that can be helpful for later applications. For example, they learn to work in international teams and acquire soft skills such as assertiveness, organizational skills and flexibility.

Study History