Distance learning program Historical sciences (B.A.) – FernUni Switzerland

👉 The Bachelor's degree programme in History at FernUni Switzerland is aimed at students who wish to acquire a comprehensive understanding of historical periods and methods. The course comprises 18 modules, each worth 10 ECTS credits, including Introduction to the 19th and 20th Centuries, Methods of Historical Science, Historiography, as well as cultural, social, and economic history content. Additionally, modules in Political Science, International Relations, Law, Media Studies, and Religious Studies are offered. The standard period of study is approximately 4.5 years, and the degree is awarded with 180 ECTS credits. The blended learning concept combines online learning materials with face-to-face sessions and promotes independent academic work.

At a Glance

🏫 Provider FernUni Switzerland, University based in Brig (Schweiz)
The FernUni Switzerland is an accredited university of the HFKG, offering flexible and international distance learning programmes in law, business, computer science, history, and psychology. With around 2300 students and 420 employees, it combines high-quality teaching and research with international networking. Partnerships, memberships in global networks, and projects in areas such as virtual mobility and e-learning promote its international visibility.
📋 Study Format Distance learning program
🎓 Field of Study Humanities
📜 Degree Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
⏳ Duration 9 Semesters, Study effort 25 hours weekly
🎯 ECTS 180 Credit Points
🌍 Language of Instruction German
📖 Course contents Introduction to the History of the 19th Century, Introduction to the History of the 20th Century, Methods of Historical Sciences, Historiography, Political History, Political Science, History of International Relations, Introduction to Law, Constitutional Law I, Introduction to Civil Law, Social History, Sociology, Economic History, Business Ethics, Cultural History, Religious Studies, Media History, Media and Communication Studies, Preparation of the Bachelor's Thesis and Colloquium, Writing of the Bachelor's Thesis
📅 Enrollment Summer semester
💶 Fees
from 1388 € Semester fee
from 12492 € total
🔗 More Info View Vendor Profile

Who is the Bachelor’s Degree in History at FernUni Switzerland suitable for?

The distance learning programme in History is aimed at individuals who wish to acquire a scientifically based understanding of historical developments – whether for personal further education, a professional career change, or work in the education sector, cultural institutions, archives, or the media. It is particularly targeted at employed persons and people with family commitments who want to complete a flexible, location-independent part-time course of study.

What requirements must you meet for admission?

The formal admission requirements for the Bachelor's degree in History at FernUni Switzerland are:

  • a recognised Matura (general university entrance qualification, e.g. Swiss Maturity Certificate, German Abitur, or an equivalent foreign higher education entrance qualification)
  • alternatively equivalent qualifications, such as specialized Matura, vocational Matura with supplementary examination, or a completed university degree
  • for foreign applicants: proof of sufficient German language skills (language of study is German)
  • depending on prior education: possibly further conditions or the completion of an entrance examination

The personal requirements include a strong interest in historical questions and social contexts, willingness to engage in independent scientific work, as well as discipline and motivation for a multi-year distance learning programme. Organisational skills, the ability to work with literature and sources in a structured way, and solid German language skills at university level are advantageous. Own professional experience is not mandatory, but it supports the application of the study content in the context of work and everyday life.

How is the Bachelor's Degree in History at FernUni Switzerland structured?

In the Bachelor's degree in History at FernUni Switzerland, you acquire fundamental knowledge and analytical skills for researching, classifying, and interpreting historical developments. The curriculum comprises 18 modules, each with 10 ECTS credits, covering various epochs, regions, and methodological approaches. The main focuses include:

  • History of the 19th and 20th centuries: Analysis of social, political, and cultural upheavals, nation-building, colonialism, world wars, totalitarianism, and decolonisation.
  • Methods of historical science: Scientific questioning, source analysis, periodisation, typologies, and archival work.
  • Historiography: Development and trends in historical research, from historicism through cultural history to global history.
  • Political, social, economic and cultural history: Examination of social groups, labour, movements, economic growth, globalisation, and cultural change.
  • Law and constitutional law: Introduction to Swiss law, fundamentals of the Federal Constitution, and basics of private law.
  • Political science, sociology and religious studies: Basic concepts, theories and the analysis of social structures, religion and nationalism.
  • Media history and communication studies: Development of mass media, political communication, journalism and public relations.
  • Business ethics: Engagement with corporate social responsibility, entrepreneurial responsibility, and ethical questions in the economic context.

During the course of the degree, you strengthen methodological work, written analysis, and presentation skills. In the final year, you plan and write an independent Bachelor's thesis on a history-related topic of your own choice.

What does the process of studying History by distance learning look like?

The programme is designed as a distance learning course with high flexibility and can be completed alongside work or other commitments. The standard period of study is 9 semesters (4.5 years), with 10 ECTS awarded per module. Each semester, you work on two modules with an average workload of about 25 hours per week.

  • All teaching materials are available digitally on a learning platform; compulsory and supplementary reading is provided throughout the semester.
  • You participate in online attendance events, virtual seminars, and forums, and independently complete tasks, essays and seminar papers.
  • Modules can vary depending on the semester (spring or autumn semester), ensuring a planned progression.
  • Many modules include practical elements such as research, archive visits or case studies.
  • In the final year, you devote yourself intensively to researching, planning and writing the Bachelor's thesis, supported by a research colloquium.

The entire study programme is clearly structured, with regular supervision elements and a high proportion of self-study phases.

What qualification and career prospects can you expect?

With the Bachelor of Arts in History, you qualify for a variety of fields in research, education, media and administration:

  • Science and research: Participation in research projects, access to advanced Master's programmes in Switzerland and abroad.
  • Education and communication: Working in schools (subsequent pedagogical qualification required), adult education centres or museums.
  • Cultural management and archival work: Tasks in archives, libraries, memorials and the cultural sector.
  • Media and communication sector: Editorial offices, journalism, public relations or public relations for historical sites.
  • Business and politics: Activities in NGOs, international organisations, think tanks or consultancy with a historical focus.

The competencies gained in critical analysis, research and writing, as well as your broad methodological knowledge, are in demand in many industries and open up flexible career paths.

What costs are incurred and how can you finance the degree?

The total costs for the distance learning History programme at FernUni Switzerland amount to 12,492 CHF (9 semesters at 1,388 CHF per semester). This includes all teaching materials and access to the digital learning environment.

  • Payment is made per semester, giving you financial planning security.
  • Grants or funding from employers or foundations are particularly possible for part-time students.
  • Costs can often be deducted for tax purposes as further education – please consult the relevant authorities or tax advisers for information.

For Swiss students as well as international participants, no separate fees are charged for enrolment or examinations.

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