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Universität Heidelberg
Bachelor German + English Social Sciences

American Studies

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

About the Program

The objective of the Bachelor's degree programme in "American Studies" is to provide students with basic knowledge of North America from the early colonial period through the 21st century, including its politics, literature, culture, geography, history, and society, as well as its ethnic diversity and religious influences. To meet the challenges of this complex research subject, the American Studies program at Heidelberg University is explicitly multi- and interdisciplinary. The program is offered by the Heidelberg Center for American Studies (HCA), which is a central research and teaching institution at Heidelberg University. Graduates will have obtained both basic subject knowledge as well as more in-depth knowledge gained on the basis on selected examples. They will have gained the skills necessary to grasp and precisely describe the topics covered within the disciplines that make up American Studies, as well as to explain the relevant terminology and primary research issues of the individual disciplines, and to develop America-related research topics. The degree program is divided into two sections: the core subject and an examination module. The core subject itself is divided into a subject-specific section and a practical section. Students complete an introductory module and select four modules from the five disciplines offered: geography, history, literature, political science, and religious history. Following completion of these four modules, students select two of the four as specialization courses.
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The objective of the Bachelor's degree programme in "American Studies" is to provide students with basic knowledge of North America from the early colonial period through the 21st century, including its politics, literature, culture, geography, history, and society, as well as its ethnic diversity and religious influences. To meet the challenges of this complex research subject, the American Studies program at Heidelberg University is explicitly multi- and interdisciplinary. The program is offered by the Heidelberg Center for American Studies (HCA), which is a central research and teaching institution at Heidelberg University. Graduates will have obtained both basic subject knowledge as well as more in-depth knowledge gained on the basis on selected examples. They will have gained the skills necessary to grasp and precisely describe the topics covered within the disciplines that make up American Studies, as well as to explain the relevant terminology and primary research issues of the individual disciplines, and to develop America-related research topics. The degree program is divided into two sections: the core subject and an examination module. The core subject itself is divided into a subject-specific section and a practical section. Students complete an introductory module and select four modules from the five disciplines offered: geography, history, literature, political science, and religious history. Following completion of these four modules, students select two of the four as specialization courses.

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Subjects / Topic Areas

American Studies

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about American Studies at Universität Heidelberg

Is American Studies at Universität Heidelberg taught in German or English?

This Bachelor programme is taught in German + English. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.

How much does the American Studies programme cost?

161 EUR / semester. International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for American Studies at Universität Heidelberg?

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (German + English), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).

When is the application deadline?

Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.

Can I work in Germany while studying American Studies?

Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.

How do I apply to Universität Heidelberg — directly or via uni-assist?

Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.

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