Studying and Researching History in Cologne
The Department of History at the University of Cologne represents a methodologically diverse and interdisciplinary approach to historical scholarship. Teaching and research span from Ancient History to Contemporary History and also include Jewish Studies.
The department’s thematic and regional focuses provide comparative and transnational perspectives on historical developments. History Didactics and Public History additionally explore how history is learned, communicated, and discussed in public.
In this way, the department combines academic research, teaching, and societal engagement. It offers students diverse learning opportunities and career pathways – from education and academia to roles in culture, media, the private sector, and public institutions. Researchers benefit from a wide range of opportunities, whether through involvement in research projects, participation in collaborations, interdisciplinary exchange, or support for their academic development.
The Department of History offers Bachelor's, Master's, and teacher training programs that provide a solid historical education and open up a wide range of career opportunities. Courses at the Historical Institute and at the Martin Buber Institute for Jewish Studies offer diverse historical perspectives and allow students to tailor their studies according to individual interests.
The Department of History conducts intensive research: At the Institute of History, broad research focuses spanning the three major historical periods, three world regions, and history didactics define its profile, while the Martin Buber Institute for Jewish Studies places a strong emphasis on Jewish history, religion, and culture.
Orientation in the Study of History
Our eStudies provide students with online guides and introductions to key areas of academic work and research practice.
The Department of History is managed and administered by the Director's Board. It implements the decisions of the Assembly of the Department. The Assembly brings together representatives of the participating institutes and the four status groups (professors, academic staff, technical and administrative staff, and students) and serves as a forum for exchange and coordination on matters relating to research, teaching, and organisation.
Nicola Kowski nkowski(at)uni-koeln.de