European History
The Master of Arts in European History is an international graduate program offered by Humboldt University Berlin in collaboration with nine European partner universities. This English-speaking program provides an in-depth exploration of historical methodology, cultural and religious history, history of science, dictatorships, conflicts and violence, colonialism, imperial history, migration, and socio-economic transformations. Structured across four semesters, it admits students exclusively in the winter semester.
Located in Berlin, a hub for historical research and European studies, the program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and comparative, transnational perspectives. Students engage in advanced research, critical analysis, and interdisciplinary approaches, preparing them for careers in academia, research institutions, museums, cultural organizations, journalism, and international policy. Taught primarily in English with some modules in German, the program equips graduates with the skills to analyze European history in both historical and contemporary contexts.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Arts (M.A.) in European History
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Berlin
- Study Type: Graduate (full-time or part-time, international)
- Admission semester: Winter semester only
- Area of study: History, European History, Transcultural Studies
- Admission modus: Local admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of European History
- Historical Methodology and Theory
- Cultural and Religious History
- History of Science and Knowledge
- Introduction to Transcultural Studies
Semester 2 – Intermediate Studies & Special Topics
- Dictatorships, Conflicts, and Violence
- Colonialism and Post-Colonialism
- Imperial History and Nation-Building
- Migration and International Relations
Semester 3 – Comparative and Interdisciplinary Approaches
- Social and Economic History
- Research Seminars and Case Studies
- Comparative European History
- Interdisciplinary Project Work
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Final Project
- Independent Research Thesis
- Data Collection and Historical Analysis
- Presentation and Defense
- Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Master of Arts in European History program are prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, museums, cultural organizations, archives, publishing, journalism, and international policy. Career paths include historian, research analyst, curator, cultural consultant, heritage manager, and lecturer. The program’s international scope and collaboration with nine European universities provide students with unique opportunities for networking, research exchange, and cross-cultural projects.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Master of Arts in European History at Humboldt University Berlin offers students a comprehensive, interdisciplinary, and transnational perspective on European history. The program combines advanced research training, comparative historical analysis, and practical experience through joint modules with partner universities across Europe.
Its unique strength lies in examining European history from multiple national, cultural, and disciplinary perspectives, equipping graduates with critical thinking, research skills, and a broad understanding of historical processes essential for both academic and professional careers.
Contact Information
Humboldt University Berlin – Student Advisory Service
Compass / Studienberatung
Unter den Linden 6
10117 Berlin, Germany
Tel: +49 30 2093-70333
Fax: +49 30 2093-70292
Email: studienberatung@hu-berlin.de
Philosophische Fakultät – Programme Contact
Institut für Geschichtswissenschaften
Friedrichstraße 191-193
10117 Berlin, Germany
Tel: +49 30 2093-70570
Email: european.history@hu-berlin.de
Contact Person: Dr. Malte Zierenberg
International Office – Humboldt University Berlin
Abt. VI Internationales
Unter den Linden 6
10117 Berlin, Germany
Tel: +49 30 2093-0
Fax: +49 30 2093-46702
Email: international-department@hu-berlin.de
