History

The Bachelor's degree in History at the University of Groningen offers students an comprehensive introduction to the past, exploring the development of societies, cultures, and civilizations across different periods and regions. The programme is designed to cultivate critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of historical processes and contexts. Throughout the three-year programme, students engage with a wide range of topics, including ancient civilizations, medieval societies, modern history, and contemporary developments. The curriculum combines lectures, seminars, and practical assignments, encouraging active participation and independent research. Students are also provided with opportunities to develop language skills and participate in internships, enhancing their employability and practical understanding of historical research and documentation. The programme emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives and encourages students to critically evaluate sources, analyze historical narratives, and develop their own interpretations. Moreover, the programme fosters skills in academic writing, argumentation, and presentation, preparing graduates for careers in education, research, journalism, cultural heritage, and other fields requiring historical expertise. The University of Groningen's distinguished faculty and resources, including extensive archives and libraries, support a rich learning environment. International students are welcomed, offering a global perspective on history and promoting intercultural understanding. Graduates of the programme leave well-equipped to analyze and interpret historical phenomena, contribute to public debates, and continue their studies at the master's level. Whether you are interested in understanding the roots of current global issues or exploring specific historical periods in depth, the History programme at the University of Groningen provides a strong foundation for a dynamic and rewarding career in the humanities and beyond.

The Bachelor's degree in History at the University of Groningen offers students a comprehensive and engaging exploration of past societies, cultures, and historical events from a global perspective. The programme is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a thorough understanding of historical processes across different periods and regions. Students will examine a wide range of topics, including ancient civilizations, medieval societies, modern history, and contemporary developments, allowing for a well-rounded grasp of humanity's historical journey.

Throughout the programme, students are encouraged to engage with primary sources, historical texts, and cultural artifacts, fostering skills in historical research and interpretation. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, such as archival research, oral history methods, and digital tools for historical analysis. In addition to core courses, students have the flexibility to choose electives that align with their personal interests, whether in European history, Asian history, Middle Eastern history, or other thematic areas like economic, social, or cultural history.

The programme emphasizes an international perspective, reflecting the globalized nature of current historical scholarship. Students may have opportunities for internships, study abroad exchanges, and collaborative projects that enhance their practical skills and intercultural competence. The faculty comprises experienced scholars dedicated to providing a stimulating learning environment, fostering critical debate, and supporting students' academic growth.

Graduates of the History Bachelor’s programme are well-prepared for careers in education, research, journalism, cultural organizations, museums, and heritage management. They also acquire transferable skills valuable in various sectors such as communication, policy analysis, and public history. The University of Groningen’s historical programme aims to cultivate informed, analytical, and reflective graduates who can contribute thoughtfully to understanding the complexities of our past and its influence on present and future societies.

Admission requirements

Minimum requirement of TOEFL iBT 86 (with a minimum of 20 on all items), or IELTS 6.5 (with a minimum of 6 on all items. ERK level B2 (preferably C1).

Other requirements

1. Matching Wanneer je een studiekeuze hebt gemaakt, wil je natuurlijk zeker weten dat je goed zit. Door deel te nemen aan de verplichte matchingsactiviteit van je opleiding, kom je erachter of de studie bij je past. Tijdens de matchingsactiviteit krijg je verschillende onderdelen aangeboden; zo volg je bijvoorbeeld een college en maak je een toets. Met behulp van de feedback op de gemaakte toets en/of een gesprek met een ouderejaars student of docent, kun je voor jezelf een goede inschatting maken of je matcht met de opleiding. Lees hier meer over de matchingsactiviteit van deze opleiding: www.rug.nl/matching
2. taaltoets cijfer Minimum requirement of TOEFL iBT 86 (with a minimum of 20 on all items), or IELTS 6.5 (with a minimum of 6 on all items. ERK level B2 (preferably C1).
3. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) Dutch VWO diploma, a German Abitur, an International Baccalaureate diploma, a European Baccalaureate or another diploma that is sufficient for acceptance to a Dutch university. Students with a Dutch 'hbo-propedeuse' diploma also need to meet the language requirements mentioned above.

Tuition fees for the Bachelor's and Master's programmes in History at the University of Groningen vary depending on the student's nationality and study type. For EU/EEA students enrolled in the Bachelor's programme, the annual tuition fee is approximately €2,209 for the 2023-2024 academic year. Non-EU/EEA students pay higher fees, which are around €11,000 per year. For the Master's programme, tuition fees follow similar rates: about €2,209 for EU/EEA students and approximately €13,500 for non-EU/EEA students.

Students are encouraged to explore scholarship opportunities such as the Holland Scholarship, which offers financial support to talented non-EU students, and the University of Groningen Talent Grants, available to both nationalities based on academic merit. Additionally, the university offers specific funding options for international students, including the Orange Tulip Scholarship, aimed at outstanding students from selected countries.

Apart from scholarships, many students finance their studies through part-time work. The Netherlands has flexible job opportunities for international students, allowing them to work up to 16 hours per week during the semester and full-time during holidays. International students can also apply for student loans through their home country, or through Dutch financial institutions if eligible.

Living costs in Groningen are estimated at approximately €900 to €1,100 per month, including accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and personal expenses. Students are advised to budget accordingly to ensure financial stability during their studies.

The university's financial aid office provides comprehensive guidance and resources to assist students in planning their finances and applying for appropriate funding options, including grants, loans, and employment. Overall, the combination of tuition fees, scholarships, part-time work, and financial planning allows students to finance their History studies effectively at the University of Groningen.

The Bachelor's degree programme in History at the University of Groningen is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of past human societies and their development over time. This programme offers a rich combination of theoretical and practical knowledge, enabling students to analyze and interpret historical sources critically. Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of historical periods, from ancient civilizations to modern times, with particular emphasis on European history, world history, and regional histories. The curriculum encourages the development of research skills, critical thinking, and effective communication, preparing graduates for diverse careers such as academia, journalism, cultural management, and public policy. Students have access to excellent academic facilities, including libraries and archives, and learn from experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields. The programme emphasizes active learning, including seminars, discussions, and independent research projects, fostering intellectual independence and a deep understanding of historical methodology. Beyond classroom learning, students are encouraged to participate in internships, study abroad programmes, and conferences to broaden their perspectives and gain practical experience. The flexible structure of the bachelor's programme allows students to tailor their education according to their interests by choosing from various electives and specializations. Upon completion, graduates are well-equipped with analytical and research skills that are highly valued across many sectors. The university also offers a smooth transition to master's programmes in history and related disciplines, supporting students in their academic and professional growth. Overall, the History bachelor's programme at the University of Groningen provides an engaging academic environment where students can develop a nuanced understanding of the past and its relevance to contemporary issues.