History of Science M.A.

Degree

Master of Arts

Program structure

Master of Arts: Only a single subject is usually studied. However, individual programs can be highly interdisciplinary. This means that the contents of the program may come from different fields of study.

Special features

None

Description

The goal of this program is to convey the contents and methods of the History of Science on an advanced level. This is done in order to prepare the student for various occupations, but also for the possibility of further qualifications in research and academia. The master’s program is based on the specific profile of the Professorship in the History of Science at the University of Regensburg, but is also aligned with the international state of research. The interdisciplinary program is supposed to enable the student to historically analyze scientific knowledge, in the widest sense, as a social system and a cultural phenomenon. While keeping an eye on the current state of research, students will also learn to deal with the material and visual cultures of the sciences, and even learn to handle objects and instruments. The core subjects, specific to the program are organized according to the perspectives “concepts of nature and the ordering of knowledge” and “science and society”. These two areas are related to each other in a complementary way. One of the unique opportunities for students of the master’s program in Regensburg is an engagement with a student body that derives from both the humanities and the natural and exact sciences. Our students are thus introduced to the other academic cultures and backgrounds which furthers the deeply interdisciplinary aspect of this degree.

Professional prospects / competencies

The study of the History of Science critically engages knowledge about science that is increasingly important in society and politics today. Therefore, historians of science would be qualified to work in the fields of scientific communication and public relations, in scientific administration or as scientific journalists for publishers, research libraries, scientific and business archives, or in science and technology museums. The master’s program especially prepares students for subsequent research activities, such as pursuing a doctorate.

Internships, lab courses, practical courses

Both internal and external internships, such as in an archival or museum setting may be counted towards the program, as long as they serve a professional field related to the academic degree.

Disciplines involved

The possibility of interdisciplinary work is given due to the module structure.

Program duration / standard period of study

The length of the program depends on the progress of an individual's studies. The standard period of study, the time in which the intended program can be finished ideally is 4 semesters. The actual time taken to complete the program may vary. It is limited by the examination deadlines set out in the examination regulations.

Program scope

120 ECTS credits

Language of instruction

English, German

Program can be started

In the winter and summer semester

What qualities do I need to have?

Good reading skills in English and an interest in the sciences and in questions without an obvious answer.

Restricted admittance

No, this program does not have restricted admission. Please note, however, that you have to take part in an eligibility test.

Legal requirements for admission

Admission to the master’s program is based on an admission assessment. The assessment requires an undergraduate degree, either in a field of the humanities, such as a historical, cultural or social subject, or in a field of the natural sciences or mathematics. The acquisition of expertise in multiple branches of academia as well as interdisciplinary abilities are part of the program. Due to the varying undergraduate degrees and the variety of subject combinations that they are to be based on, students are required to meet with an authorized teacher of the History of Science for two detailed guidance discussions within the first three semesters.

Application deadline(s)

Start in the winter term (starting in October): July 15

Start in the summer term (staring in April): January 15

Information for international applicants

Registration dates and deadlines

Information on enrollment can be found on the homepage of the Registrar's Office.

Language skills needed

English language proficiency corresponding to B2 CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). This level can alternatively be certified by another equivalent proof.
Proficiency in another foreign language corresponding to B2 CEFR. This level can alternatively be certified by another equivalent proof. Latinum if the master's thesis is chosen from the fields of Ancient and Medieval History.

For applicants who did not obtain their university entrance qualification or their first degree at a German-speaking educational institution, proof of German language skills at the level of the German Language Test for University Admission of Foreign Applicants (DSH-2) or an equivalent German examination.

Information regarding German language proficiency for international students

Documents needed (to apply / register)

Applications should be sent to the Faculty for History of Science:

Professur für Wissenschaftsgeschichte, Universität Regensburg, 93040 Regensburg

The application must include (it is sufficient for certificates to be sent as copies):

Tabular Curriculum Vitae
Proof of Higher Education Entrance Qualification
Proof of Language Skills
Foreign students are further required to show proof of their German language qualifications. For more information, click here.
Proof of an earlier degree, proving professional qualification (BA, Magister, diploma, state exam) with a grade of “good” or better (on a German grading scale) or equivalent
Proof of relevant content of study and extracurricular activities, (also pertinent work experience, internships, etc.) if there is a connection to the intended course of History of Science
Letter of Motivation for wanting to study History of Science on a maximum of 3 pages.

Contact within the faculty

Dr. Christian Reiß
PT building, room 4.3.16
Phone 0941/943-3642
E-Mail: christian.reiss@ur.de