Economics, Politics, and Social Thought

The academic lineage of "social thought", which has its roots in post-war Germany and in the United States, is committed to examining the key innovations of human life and culture within the framework of their social and political determinations. The core programme at Bard College Berlin consists of courses that engage some of the most important texts, artefacts, and debates in the cultural legacies of Europe and the world.
In the first-year core programme, students explore the conflicts and innovations that emerged in ancient and medieval philosophy and culture, with a focus on the various influences and interactions that created the fundamental values and practices that shape our understanding of human life and society. The second-year core addresses new forms of knowledge that developed in the Renaissance and the connections they reveal between the arts and sciences. In the final year, the core encompasses the study of the origins of the social sciences and the modes of experiment that make up the movement called Modernism.
The BA degree in Economics, Politics, and Social Thought connects the study of economics with the history of political and social thought as well as with the study of art and culture. Above all, the aim of the programme is to provide a rigorous interdisciplinary training, while creating the opportunity to reflect on and explore the key questions that guide decision-making in the public and private sectors. What is the basis of human cooperation? What are the most important goods in the life of a community? How is value created? What constitutes a fair distribution of resources?
In the economics component, students take introductory courses in quantitative measurement and in macro- and microeconomics. Advanced courses address the transnational shifts and debates concerning social, monetary, and human values that have shaped - or been neglected by - the operation of state structures, organisations, and markets. Students specialise by choosing either Economics or Politics as a concentration.

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.