Humanities Research - Global History
The Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) offers a two-year, full-time Master's program in Humanities Research – Global History. This program is designed for students who wish to explore the interconnected history of global societies and cultures from a humanities perspective. The curriculum covers a wide range of historical periods and regions, emphasizing transnational and global approaches to history. Students will develop advanced research skills and gain a deep understanding of the social, political, and cultural dynamics that have shaped the modern world.
Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in historical research, international relations, and cultural heritage management. VU Amsterdam’s strong research focus, combined with its access to specialized resources, expert faculty, and global networks, ensures that students are equipped to conduct high-level academic research and contribute to the ongoing discussions about global historical processes.
Key Facts
Key Facts
- Program Title: Humanities Research - Global History
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 June 2026
- Location: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam), Netherlands
- Field of Study: Liberal Arts
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Global History
- Introduction to Global Historical Perspectives
- Theories of Historical Change and Development
- Research Methods in Global History
Semester 2 – Advanced Global History
- Globalization and the Modern World
- Comparative Colonial and Postcolonial History
- Seminar: Issues in Global Historical Studies
Semester 3 – Specialization in Global History
- Global Conflict and Cooperation
- History of Global Economic Systems
- Independent Research Project
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Research Project
- Independent Research / Thesis
- Data Analysis in Global History
- Final Presentation & Research Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Global History Master’s program are equipped for careers in academic research, cultural heritage, and international relations. With a deep understanding of global historical processes, they can pursue roles as historians, museum curators, cultural heritage managers, or policy advisors. Many graduates work in research institutions, NGOs, cultural organizations, and governmental bodies, contributing to the study and preservation of global historical narratives.
Why Choose This Program
This program focuses on the in-depth research of global history, offering students the opportunity to explore historical events, movements, and trends from a global perspective. The program’s research-focused approach provides students with the skills to conduct independent historical inquiry, equipping them for careers in academia, museums, and cultural institutions. The program’s interdisciplinary nature ensures that students are well-prepared to engage with historical topics in a globalized world, making meaningful contributions to the understanding of human history.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +31 20 598 5555
Email: internationalstudents@vu.nl
Address: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam), De Boelelaan 1105, 1081 HV Amsterdam, Netherlands
