History and the Public (Master)
Main Campus, Germany
Master of Arts in History and the Public Sphere
University of Kassel
History and Public History
Program Overview: History and the Public Sphere at University of Kassel
The consecutive Master's program History and the Public Sphere at the University of Kassel combines in-depth study of historical contexts with an introduction to application-oriented, practical, and innovative working methods in the historical sciences. Over four semesters, it prepares you for a wide range of professional fields both inside and outside academia, including museums, archives, research offices, libraries, heritage conservation, and adult education.
The program is structured around two complementary study areas. The research-oriented thematic module area (Area A) explores essential dimensions of society and culture, examining the influence of ideas, ideologies, social processes, and the significance of space and time for historical developments. The methodological-practical module area (Area B) develops profession-qualifying competencies in written and oral presentation and communication of historical knowledge across various media contexts and genres.
Students benefit from established cooperations with archives, museums, and cultural institutions in Kassel and the surrounding region. A compulsory internship provides hands-on professional experience, and the study plan includes the option to complete a semester abroad, broadening your international perspective on public history practice.
Key Program Highlights
- Unique combination of academic historical research and practical public history skills
- Compulsory internship with cooperating archives, museums, and cultural institutions in the Kassel region
- Integrated semester abroad option for international academic experience
- Flexible intake with both winter and summer semester enrollment available
Curriculum and Modules
The Master's curriculum is divided into two main study areas: a research-oriented thematic track (Area A) focusing on historical analysis and theory, and a methodological-practical track (Area B) centering on the communication and presentation of history to the public. Together, these areas ensure graduates are equipped with both scholarly depth and professional versatility.
Society, Culture, and Historical Processes
15 ECTSExamines the influence of ideas, ideologies, and social processes on historical developments, exploring how structural and individual factors shape societies and cultures across different periods.
Space, Time, and Historical Change
15 ECTSInvestigates the significance of spatial and temporal dimensions in historical analysis, including regional, national, and transnational perspectives on historical transformation.
Historical Research Methods and Theory
15 ECTSProvides advanced training in historiographical methods, source criticism, and theoretical frameworks for historical inquiry, preparing students for independent research projects.
Public History and Media Communication
15 ECTSDevelops competencies in written and oral presentation of historical knowledge across diverse media contexts and genres, from exhibitions and publications to digital formats.
Practical Module and Internship
15 ECTSIncludes a compulsory internship at a cooperating institution such as an archive, museum, or cultural organization, providing direct professional experience in public history practice.
Master's Thesis
30 ECTSAn independent research project demonstrating the ability to apply historical methods and theory to a substantial scholarly question, culminating in a written thesis and oral defense.
Elective Specializations
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Master of Arts in History and the Public Sphere requires a completed undergraduate degree in history or a closely related discipline. The program is open to both domestic and international applicants, and all applications are processed through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeCompleted Bachelor's degree in History or an equivalent subject area
- Minimum Study DurationProof of a standard period of study of at least 6 semesters in the previous degree
- Foreign Language Requirement (Option A)One modern foreign language at B2 level plus Latin at A2 level (CEFR)
- Foreign Language Requirement (Option B)One modern foreign language at B2 level plus a second modern foreign language at A2 level (CEFR)
- Conditional AdmissionIf content prerequisites are missing, the examination board may set conditions of up to 30 credits to be completed before thesis registration
Language Requirements
- German ProficiencyDSH-2 or TestDaF 4x4 or equivalent (program is taught entirely in German)
- Modern Foreign LanguageB2 level (CEFR) in English, French, Italian, Spanish, or another modern language
- Second LanguageA2 level (CEFR) in Latin or a second modern foreign language
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
International and domestic students pursuing the Master of Arts in History and the Public Sphere can access a range of scholarships and funding opportunities. The University of Kassel and external organizations offer financial support to help you focus on your studies.
Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
EUR 300 per monthA merit-based scholarship funded jointly by the German federal government and private sponsors, available to high-achieving students regardless of nationality. It is awarded for at least two semesters and does not need to be repaid.
DAAD Scholarships for International Students
Varies by programThe German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a range of scholarships for international Master's students in Germany, covering living expenses and sometimes including travel and health insurance allowances.
Hessen State Scholarships and Grants
VariesThe state of Hessen provides various financial aid options for students at public universities, including need-based grants. Contact Uni4Edu for details on eligibility and current availability.
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 History and the Public Sphere program are prepared for diverse career paths that bridge academic research and public-facing roles. The program's combination of theoretical depth and practical training opens doors in cultural institutions, media, education, and the corporate sector.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers and Sectors
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Kassel is a publicly funded research university founded in 1971, recognized for its strengths in humanities, social sciences, and interdisciplinary research. While it is not among Germany's elite research universities, it holds solid positions in multiple international ranking systems and is particularly noted for its applied approach to education.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Social Sciences | EduRank | #40 in Germany |
| History and Archaeology (research output) | EduRank | Top 50% globally |
| Humanities and Cultural Studies | University Reputation | Traditionally strong subject area |
| Environmental Science | EduRank | #47 in Germany |
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.
Similar Programmes
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
History
Loyola University New Orleans, New Orleans, United States
Earliest Intake
October 2025
Gross Tuition
45280 $
Bachelor's Degree
36 months
Welsh and Welsh History BA (Hons)
Prifysgol Bangor University, Bangor, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
May 2026
Gross Tuition
17000 £
Bachelor's Degree
48 months
History (with Foundation Year) BA (Hons)
Prifysgol Bangor University, Bangor, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
May 2026
Gross Tuition
17000 £
Master's & Postgraduate
12 months
History MSc
University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2026
Gross Tuition
32000 £
Master's & Postgraduate
12 months
History of Art, Theory and Display MSc
University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Earliest Intake
January 2026
Gross Tuition
32000 £
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
