History

The Bachelor's programme in History at the University of Groningen offers students a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the study of the past. This multidisciplinary programme aims to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a thorough understanding of historical processes across different periods and regions. Students will explore a wide array of topics, including ancient civilizations, medieval society, modern history, and contemporary developments. The curriculum is designed to encourage active engagement with primary and secondary sources, fostering scholarly research skills and the ability to interpret diverse historical narratives.

Throughout the programme, students gain insight into the social, political, economic, and cultural aspects that have shaped human societies over time. They will examine historical events and trends from various perspectives, learning to contextualize historical facts and critique sources critically. The course combines lectures, seminars, and research projects, providing a dynamic learning environment that promotes independent thinking and academic curiosity.

In addition to core courses, students have the opportunity to specialize in particular areas of interest, such as European history, world history, or the history of specific regions or themes. The programme also emphasizes the development of transferable skills, including effective communication, writing, and teamwork, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers in education, research, heritage management, journalism, and policy-making.

The University of Groningen's historical facilities, including access to extensive archives and libraries, support students' research activities and enrich their learning experience. The programme is taught by experienced historians committed to high-quality education and research. Graduates of this programme will have a profound understanding of historical processes and a set of versatile skills applicable in many professional contexts. The Bachelor's in History at Groningen is an excellent choice for those passionate about exploring the complexities of the past and understanding their relevance to the present and future.

The Bachelor's degree programme in History at the University of Groningen offers students a comprehensive introduction to the study of history, focusing on diverse regions and periods to develop a broad and nuanced understanding of how past societies, cultures, and events have shaped the modern world. Throughout the three-year programme, students explore key themes such as political, social, economic, cultural, and intellectual history, gaining critical analytical skills and a deep appreciation for historical context and interpretation.

In the first year, students build a solid foundation by engaging with core historical concepts, methods, and primary sources. They are introduced to various historical periods and geographic regions, including European, Asian, American, and global histories, allowing students to identify connections and differences across cultures and eras. Courses emphasize developing essential skills such as critical reading, academic writing, and historiographical analysis, enabling students to evaluate different perspectives and construct well-supported historical arguments.

In the second year, the programme offers more specialized courses, allowing students to focus on particular regions, themes, or time periods of interest. These modules involve intensive study of primary and secondary sources, fostering skills in research, source criticism, and historiography. Students also undertake an internship or project to gain practical experience in historical research and dissemination, preparing them for future academic or professional careers.

The final year provides opportunities for in-depth specialization through elective courses, major research projects, and a thesis. Students choose a specific topic aligned with their interests, often involving original research. This year emphasizes the development of independent research skills, scholarly writing, and presentation techniques. The curriculum encourages an international perspective, critical thinking, and awareness of current debates in history.

The programme is designed to prepare students for a variety of careers, including academia, education, cultural heritage, journalism, and policy analysis. The university’s vibrant academic community, renowned faculty, and modern facilities support students throughout their studies. Additionally, the programme’s emphasis on critical thinking, research skills, and intercultural understanding ensures graduates are well equipped to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to society.

Overall, the Bachelor's in History at the University of Groningen offers a rigorous and rewarding academic experience, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills to foster the next generation of historians, analysts, and informed citizens.

Admission requirements

Excellent academic record.

Other requirements

1. cijferlijst Excellent academic record.
2. taaltoets cijfer Minimum requirement of TOEFL iBT 97 (with a minimum of 24 on writing skills) or IELTS 7 (with a minimum of 6.5 on all items). ERK level C1.
3. vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) BA degree in: * History

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The financing of the Bachelor's programme in History at the University of Groningen is primarily based on Dutch national funding mechanisms, tuition fees paid by students, and additional institutional resources. The Dutch government funds higher education through a system known as the "collective funding," which allocates resources to universities based on various factors such as student numbers and research output. As a publicly funded university, Groningen benefits from this model, ensuring that stable financial support is available for core educational activities.

Tuition fees for domestic students are set annually by the government and vary depending on the student's nationality and residence status. For EU/EEA students, the tuition fee is typically aligned with the statutory fee, which is regulated by Dutch law. For non-EU/EEA students, fees are usually higher, reflecting the cost of education and institutional policies. These fees are paid by students annually and constitute a significant part of the programme's revenue. The university offers various scholarships and funding opportunities for international students to support their studies, including merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and specific awards for talented applicants.

In addition to government funding and tuition fees, the University of Groningen generates income through research grants, partnerships with cultural and heritage organizations, and external sponsorships. The university actively seeks collaborations with museums, historical institutions, and cultural foundations, which may provide financial support or in-kind contributions to research projects within the History programme. Students may also have access to financing options through student loans, both within the Netherlands and from international sources, depending on their country of origin.

Furthermore, the university invests in facilities, academic staff, and resources through its own budget allocations, which are partly generated internally and partly supplemented by external funding. The university's strategic priorities include internationalization and digitalization, which may influence future investment in educational infrastructure and scholarship opportunities. Overall, the programme's financing is a combination of government funding, student fees, external grants, and institutional resources, which together support the high-quality education and research activities that characterize the History programme at the University of Groningen.

History at the University of Groningen offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the past, covering various periods, regions, and themes. The program aims to develop students' analytical skills, critical thinking, and understanding of historical processes and their impact on the present. Students study a broad range of topics, including ancient, medieval, early modern, and modern history, along with specialization options in areas such as European history, colonial and postcolonial history, and global history.

The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, encouraging students to engage in original research, critical analysis of sources, and effective communication. Techniques such as historiography, qualitative research methods, and digital analysis are integral parts of the program. The program is designed to foster an international perspective, with opportunities for study exchanges, internships, and collaboration with historical institutions.

The faculty at the University of Groningen is renowned for its research in various historical fields, ensuring students learn from active scholars who are contributing cutting-edge research. The university emphasizes an interactive learning environment, with small class sizes, seminars, and tutorials that promote intense debates and personalized feedback.

Graduates of the History program are well-equipped for careers in museums, archives, education, research, journalism, or further academic study. The university's strong network and its location in Groningen—one of Europe's vibrant student cities—provide a stimulating environment for academic and personal growth. The program duration is typically three years for a Bachelor's degree, followed by specialization options through Master's programs for those pursuing advanced careers or academic research. Overall, History at the University of Groningen aims to produce well-rounded, critical thinkers with a nuanced understanding of historical contexts and their relevance today.