Economics, Politics, and Social Thought

The Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Politics, and Social Thought at Bard College Berlin offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex mechanisms that shape societies and global interactions. This program is designed to equip students with analytical tools and critical perspectives necessary to engage with pressing economic, political, and social issues of our time. At the core of the curriculum is an integration of economic theory, political analysis, and social philosophy, allowing students to explore the interconnectedness of these fields and their influence on contemporary life. Through rigorous coursework, students critically examine topics such as economic development, political institutions, social justice, human rights, and cultural change. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical application, fostering skills in research, quantitative and qualitative analysis, policy evaluation, and ethical reasoning. Students are encouraged to develop their own scholarly voice through a variety of writing assignments, group projects, and independent research. The small class sizes and collaborative learning environment promote close interaction with faculty members who are international scholars and experts in their fields. The program also offers opportunities for internships, study abroad exchanges, and engagement with community projects, helping students to connect academic concepts with real-world experiences. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in public policy, international organizations, NGOs, research institutions, journalism, and further academic study. The interdisciplinary nature of the program prepares students to think critically about global challenges and contribute thoughtfully to societal debates. By combining rigorous academic training with a commitment to social justice and ethical inquiry, the Economics, Politics, and Social Thought program at Bard College Berlin empowers students to become informed, responsible, and innovative global citizens.

Educational organisation

Students take at least four courses per semester during their first three years of studies, and three courses per semester during the final year. A flexible degree plan in the third and fourth year allows students to study abroad for up to two semesters. During the fourth year, students write a BA thesis under the supervision of a faculty adviser.
Students shape a specialised academic profile through their chosen area of concentration, guided by faculty members who help them to develop a programme of study tailored to their interests and future plans. Within the elective component of the degree, students may choose from a wide variety of courses in the arts, humanities, or social sciences. They may also pursue an internship for academic credit or focus on foreign language study. All BA candidates must demonstrate intermediate proficiency in German by the end of their second year of studies.
A detailed overview of the degree structure is available here:
http://www.berlin.bard.edu/academics/economics-politics-and-social-thought/.

Study abroad unit(s)

Optional study abroad is possible during the third year of the programme.

Internships

Students have the option to complete an internship for academic credit.

Forms of assessment

Students are assessed on seminar preparation, attendance, and active participation, and on term essays and final course essays. In economics courses, students are also assessed on homework exercises and examinations.

Course objectives

At Bard College Berlin, students cultivate the capacity for critical thinking as well as excellent speaking and writing skills, the ability to debate in a well-informed and open way, and civic-mindedness both inside and outside the classroom. These skills establish a solid preparation for many future career paths. Bard College Berlin alumni/ae have advanced to successful careers in international relations, public policy, the arts, education, and many other fields as well as graduate study at some of the world's most highly regarded universities.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of English proficiency at level C1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. We accept the following tests:
TOEFL IbT (minimum score: 95)
IELTS Academic (minimum score: 7.0)
Cambridge (CAE: A-C, CPE: A-C)

Academic requirements

Students must have a high school diploma (or equivalent) by the time they enrol. They must demonstrate English proficiency at level C1.
Students must apply through the Common Application. Required materials include the following: a motivation statement, a writing sample, two letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and proof of advanced English proficiency for non-native English speakers.

Job opportunities

Bard College Berlin offers a limited number of on-campus job placements.

Funding opportunities within the university

Bard College Berlin has a limited number of full and partial scholarships to award to outstanding students. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, the candidate's contribution to the diversity of the student body, and financial need, in addition to the criteria listed for the individual scholarships.
http://www.berlin.bard.edu/admissions/financial-aid/

Arrival support

The university offers airport pick-up for international students travelling alone to Berlin. An extensive orientation programme helps students to navigate bureaucratic issues related to moving to Berlin and also introduces them to life in Germany.

Services and support for international students

All students have access to support services, including a campus doctor, counsellor, and peer support counselling.

Accommodation

Bard College Berlin reserves a place in the on-campus dormitories for all first-year BA students. Most rooms are shared with at least one other student, and dormitories have shared bathrooms and showers. All dormitories are equipped with laundry facilities, a kitchen, a common room, and wireless Internet.