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Faculty of PhilosophyGlobal History – Master

The degree programme in Global History offered by Heidelberg University, gives students profound insight into the processes by which borders have been historically transgressed.

Facts & Formalities

DegreeMaster of Arts
Type of programmeConsecutive
Start of programmeWinter and summer semester
Standard period of study4 semesters
Language(s) of instructionGerman
Fees and contributions151.05 € / Semester
Application procedureConsecutive master’s programmes with access restriction
Application deadlinesInformation about deadlines can be obtained after you have put together a degree program.

Course Content

The Master’s degree programme in Global History focusses on the actors and structures involved in globalisation and networking processes, thereby linking them to the ongoing development of the national-historical paradigm that began in the 1980s. Students examine the methodological and theoretical implications of cross-border processes, as well as their substantive manifestations. The academic programme therefore equips students with the skills necessary to pursue further postgraduate study in the diverse field of Global History. This Master’s degree programme in Global History examines geographical area as a key element in historical thinking (areas), discusses the historical power of exchange and networking processes (topics), and links these to a critical discussion of theory and methodology (methods). Uniquely, students of Global History are confronted by the multiple possible interpretations of historical processes or historical insights being innately linked to specific sites and time periods. This heightens students’ sensitivity to individuality and diversity, and prevents the premature dismissal or reduction of cultural diversity. The Master’s degree programme in Global History therefore promotes reflection on the influence of an individual’s origins and also strengthens intercultural communication skills. The Master’s degree programme builds on the fundamental knowledge and key skills gained via the study of History and enables students to develop an individual research specialism in the field of Global History.  

Course Structure

The Master’s degree programme requires that students select two fields from all periods, regions and subject areas covered in the Bachelor’s degree programme (with the exception of Ancient history). One of these fields will be the student’s specialism. In addition to this, students are expected to acquire in-depth knowledge in intensive methodological and research modules. 

The Master’s degree programme therefore furthers national historical research perspectives to include methods and theories relevant to cross-disciplinary concepts, thereby promoting interdisciplinary skills. Within the categories, “Area Studies” and “Topics” students may therefore select elements of study from non-historical disciplines (Chinese studies, Japanese studies, Jewish studies, Art history, Religious studies, Geography, Politics, Sociology, History of medicine, and Macroeconomics). In the fourth and final semester, students complete a Master’s thesis.