Programmes

On this page, you’ll find all the information about the History degree programme at Ghent University. The standard programme is conducted in Dutch. All information is to be found on the page about Programmes and Courses in Dutch. This English page focusses on the possibilities for international and exchange students within the history programme at Ghent University. Are you currently studying history, take a look at the ‘information for students’ page.

Studying history at Ghent University

The history degree programme consists of a three-year bachelor’s degree and a one-year master’s degree. The bachelor programme focuses on a range of research techniques and reasoning skills and the development of a critical, scholarly approach. Students graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in History, not only have a solid understanding of the major historical periods, but also a broad foundation in the humanities and social sciences. Students learn to critically analyse social processes and structures and develop the ability to approach both the past and the present with an inquiring mind. The one-year Master’s programme in History further develops the skills as a researcher. During this year, students can delve into a historical period and theme, on which they write a Master’s thesis. Students who acquire a Master of History are able to conduct independent academic research: formulate a clear research question, analyse complex sources and present findings in accurate, structured and easily readable language. In addition, they possess specialised technical and thematic skills and are able to respond critically to new social and academic developments.

Exchange programme History

Several courses of the History programme are offered in an Exchange Programme History. Most courses are taught in English. For the Dutch-language course units on the programme, English-language facilities are granted. As exchange student, you can design your own programme by selecting from this list of courses. 60% of your programme should consist of courses offered by the faculty of Arts and Philosophy. It is not necessary to limit yourself to a single exchange programme; courses from different programmes may be combined.

It may also be interesting to consult the courses at other Ghent University faculties, such as the faculty of Political and Social Sciences and the faculty of Economics and Business Administration, as they offer courses that may be relevant to your home degree.

Additional information on being an exchange student at the Faculty of Arts can be found on the faculty website. For more information on the Exchange Programme History, please contact Prof. Dr. Frederik Buylaert.

Broaden your horizons with ‘Past Week’

Every two years, the department organises ‘Past Week’, a project week for all students and staff. Together with external (heritage) partners, you’ll explore history in a different way: outside the auditoria, in the field, and centred around a single theme. Undergraduate and postgraduate students work side by side with staff from the History Department. Each edition, possibilities are created for international students to participate.

Curious about previous editions? Be sure to look at the Past Week website.