Binational degree in History

The TübAix Bachelor's programme aims at introducing students from Germany (or German-speaking countries) and France (or French-speaking countries) to a binational approach to historical studies. Special emphasis lies on the specific theoretical and methodological approaches of academic research in both France and Germany, thus familiarising the students with both university systems.

The fields of study include all central epochs of European history as well as specialisations specific to each university: Tübingen offers the study of North American and Eastern European history and Aix-en-Provence focuses on the African and Middle Eastern areas. Regional studies are included in the programmes of both universities, as well as seminars to auxiliary sciences of history.

The students also select a minor, such as geography, French or German literature, history of art, etc.

The intercultural dimension is at the heart of the programme, as French- and German-speaking students complete their studies side by side and are able to assist each other as they work in tandem.

The TübAix Master's programme in history is based on the TübAix Bachelor's programme. The Master's programme is also organised by the Universities of Tübingen and Aix-en-Provence.

Educational organisation

Students follow the general Bachelor's study programme in history of the Universities of Tübingen and Aix-en-Provence (see http://www.univ-amu.fr/ and http://www.uni-tuebingen.de/). This programme consists of lectures, seminars, and tutorials which deal with historical methods and theories, comparative approaches to history, and the various fields of historical research.

Study abroad unit(s)

German students spend the fifth and sixth semesters of the programme in Aix-en-Provence. They also have the opportunity to spend the third semester in Aix-en-Provence if they wish to do so.
French students spend the third and fourth semesters in Tübingen and continue their studies with the German students in Aix-en-Provence in the third year.

Internships

Internships are not mandatory, but strongly recommended throughout the studies.

The "Deutsch-Französische Hochschule" (http://www.dfh-ufa.org) regularly offers internships, as do the Department of History and the Deutsch-Französisches Kulturinstitut Tübingen.

The "Praktikumsbüro" of the Department of History at the University of Tübingen helps students looking for internships by giving them specific offers and information. The programme coordinator will also assist students by passing around specific offers for internships in Franco-German institutions.

Forms of assessment

Students acquire 30 ECTS per semester through various examinations, oral and written:

• Seminar paper
• Oral presentation
• Written exam
• Oral exam

Course objectives

Students acquire profound knowledge and skills in the field of historical research. They become familiar with the scientific techniques of historical research and learn to produce texts according to both French and German methodology.
Students achieve intercultural competence and are able to find work in various fields, such as the cultural sector (museums, publishing, archives), European and international institutions, the media, industry, marketing, or the academic world.

Language requirements

Applicants must be proficient in both French and German. The mastery of English is important in the course of the studies.

The language skills of the applicants in French and German are tested during the interview.

Academic requirements

Applicants must have the German Abitur or the French equivalent, the baccalauréat.

Enrolment fees

Enrolment fee and student services: 142.10 EUR
French students will only have to pay 82.10 EUR for student services.

Students receive reductions for public transportation in Tübingen and surroundings as well as for the student cafeteria.

Costs of living

Approx. 700 EUR per month to cover personal expenses

Job opportunities

Participants have all the job opportunities medium-sized university towns (Tübingen/Aix) usually have to offer, such as jobs in gastronomy, retail, local media, etc. The universities themselves offer some student positions.

Funding opportunities within the university

The German-French University (DFH/UFA) offers mobility grants for students enrolled in this programme. Recipients receive 270 EUR per month during their stay abroad.
http://www.dfh-ufa.org

Arrival support

An orientation meeting is organised by the programme coordinator before the beginning of the semester. Students are guided through the registration process and receive help in choosing their classes and organising their schedule in accordance with the TübAix guidelines.

Services and support for international students

The programme coordinator, who speaks both French and German, supports participants during weekly consultation hours with accommodation, exam organisation, non-academic problems etc. The coordinator in Aix-en-Provence is also available via e-mail or telephone.

Accommodation

Accommodation is available through the Student Services Office or on the private market. Rent for a single room in a student residence is approx. 210-320 EUR.