Art History (BA)
FAU Campus Erlangen, Germany
Art History (BA)
University of Erlangen–Nuremberg (FAU)
Art History
Program Overview: Art History (BA) at FAU
The Art History BA at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) is a humanities degree that examines artistic objects from late antiquity to the present, covering their origin, form, content, meaning, and geographic classification. The program addresses all genres of art including architecture, sculpture, painting, graphic arts, decorative arts, photography, and new media, with a special emphasis on the rich cultural heritage of the Nuremberg metropolitan region.
As a two-subject Bachelor program, Art History can be studied as a first or second subject alongside another discipline from FAU's extensive range of humanities and social sciences. This unique structure allows you to build an interdisciplinary academic profile tailored to your interests and career goals, combining art-historical expertise with complementary knowledge from fields such as history, philosophy, or literature.
The program emphasizes research-oriented teaching and research-based learning, equipping you with the analytical and methodological skills to examine, describe, and interpret works of art. Students benefit from FAU's close connections to renowned museums and cultural institutions in the Erlangen-Nuremberg region, including the Germanisches Nationalmuseum and the Neues Museum Nürnberg.
Key Program Highlights
- Over 100 years of tradition in art history teaching with strong connections to regional museums and cultural institutions
- Two-subject Bachelor structure allowing you to combine Art History with a second subject from a uniquely broad range of humanities disciplines
- ERASMUS exchange opportunities with partner universities in Milan, Siena, Poitiers, Bern, Leiden, Cordoba, and Oviedo
- Research-oriented teaching with hands-on access to original artworks and exhibitions in the culturally rich Nuremberg metropolitan region
Curriculum and Modules
The Art History BA curriculum consists of core modules amounting to 45 ECTS in the main subject, covering fundamental specialist knowledge of medieval, modern, and contemporary art history. When taken as a first subject, students complete an additional 45 ECTS in compulsory electives to develop their individual profile, plus 20 ECTS in key qualifications aimed at practical skills. The program is structured into self-contained teaching and learning units with integrated examinations.
Introduction to Art History
10 ECTSFoundational module introducing the discipline of art history, its key concepts, terminology, and basic research methods for analyzing visual phenomena.
Propaedeutics of Art History
5 ECTSDevelops core skills in formal description, iconographic analysis, and the academic conventions of art-historical writing and argumentation.
Fine Arts – Middle Ages
5 ECTSExamines painting, sculpture, and decorative arts from the medieval period, focusing on stylistic developments, iconography, and cultural contexts of European medieval art.
Fine Arts – Renaissance to Present
10 ECTSSurveys the development of painting, sculpture, and graphic arts from the early modern period through contemporary art, covering major movements, artists, and theoretical frameworks.
History of Architecture
5 ECTSExplores architectural history from the medieval period to the present, analyzing building types, construction techniques, urban planning, and the social functions of architecture.
Methods and Theories of Art History
10 ECTSAdvanced module covering key methodological approaches including social history of art, philosophy of art, media history, visual studies, and content analysis.
Elective Modules and Specializations
Admission Requirements
The Art History BA at FAU has no admissions restrictions (zulassungsfrei), meaning there is no numerus clausus. International applicants must demonstrate the required German language proficiency and hold a recognized secondary school qualification. Apply through Uni4Edu to receive guidance on the entire application and enrollment process.
Academic Requirements
- Academic QualificationGerman Abitur or recognized equivalent international secondary school leaving certificate
- Admission RestrictionNo admissions restrictions (zulassungsfrei)
- Program StructureTwo-subject Bachelor: Art History must be combined with a second subject from the Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Theology
- International QualificationsForeign secondary school qualifications are evaluated for equivalency; a Studienkolleg preparatory course may be required
- Non-EU Processing FeeEUR 100 per application for applicants from non-EU countries
Language Requirements
- DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung)DSH 2 (written 2 / oral 1) or equivalent
- TestDaFTestDaF with a score of 4 in all four sections (or equivalent)
- Teaching LanguageThe program is taught completely in German; full proficiency is required
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Germany offers numerous funding opportunities for international students pursuing their studies at FAU. While public universities in Bavaria charge minimal semester fees, living expenses can be supported through various scholarship programs. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on funding options available for your profile.
Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
EUR 300 per monthA merit-based scholarship funded jointly by the German federal government and private sponsors, awarded to high-achieving students regardless of nationality. Available to enrolled students at FAU based on academic performance and social engagement.
DAAD Scholarships for International Students
Varies by programThe German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a range of scholarships for international students at all academic levels, including study scholarships and research grants for humanities disciplines.
Bavarian State Scholarships (BayBFG)
Varies by financial needNeed-based financial support available to students studying in Bavaria, including international students who meet specific eligibility criteria. Contact Uni4Edu for details on eligibility and application procedures.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Art History BA at FAU are equipped with transferable analytical, communication, and research skills valued across the cultural and creative sectors. The program's emphasis on hands-on engagement with museums and cultural institutions in the Nuremberg region provides practical experience that strengthens your employability in a range of professional fields.
Potential Career Paths
Notable Employers and Institutions
Rankings and Recognition
Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) is one of the largest and most respected research universities in Germany, consistently ranked among the top institutions nationally and internationally. Founded in 1743, FAU is recognized for its interdisciplinary approach and strong connections between research and teaching across all five faculties.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Arts and Humanities | QS World University Rankings | Top 300 |
| Humanities, Social Sciences, and Theology | FAU Faculty Strength | 50+ Disciplines |
| Industry and Innovation | THE World University Rankings | #1 in Germany |
| Citations per Researcher | QS World University Rankings | #59 Worldwide |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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