Humanities, the Arts, and Social Thought

The Bachelor of Arts in Humanities, the Arts, and Social Thought at Bard College Berlin offers a unique interdisciplinary education designed to cultivate critical thinking, creative expression, and a nuanced understanding of human culture and society. This program encourages students to explore the interconnectedness of history, philosophy, literature, art, and social sciences, equipping them with the analytical tools necessary to engage thoughtfully with complex global issues. Through a combination of rigorous coursework, compelling seminars, and engaging discussion, students develop their abilities to interpret cultural artifacts, analyze social dynamics, and articulate their ideas effectively. The curriculum emphasizes inquiry-based learning, fostering curiosity and intellectual independence. Students have the opportunity to delve into diverse topics such as political philosophy, contemporary art, cultural studies, and social theory, allowing for personalized academic pathways aligned with their interests and career goals. The program promotes a collaborative learning environment, enhanced by the university’s international faculty and diverse student body, encouraging cross-cultural dialogue and a global perspective. Many courses incorporate experiential components, including community engagement projects, internships, and cultural excursions, to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application. Graduates of this program are prepared for a variety of paths, including graduate study, careers in arts and cultural management, journalism, education, public policy, and international relations. The Bachelor’s degree provides a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of the modern world through the lens of the humanities and social sciences, fostering thoughtful, informed, and empathetic 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.
A detailed overview of the degree structure is available here:
http://www.berlin.bard.edu/academics/humanities-the-arts-and-social-thought

Study abroad unit(s)

Students may opt to spend up to two semesters abroad at one of our partner universities.

Internships

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

Forms of assessment

Students are assessed on seminar preparation and participation, term essays, and final essays. For language or social science courses, tests are also a form of assessment.

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 should 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 jobs for students.

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 and counsellor.

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.