Overview

The Institute of History at the University of Bern offers the opportunity to conduct independent research within the framework of university doctoral training. The doctorate can be obtained either within the structure of a doctoral programme or as a free doctorate.

Why study history?

Those who study history better understand constant change and can provide orientation in times of upheaval. The study of history provides a unique insight into past worlds. It can show how people in the past dealt with hunger, wars and scarcity, which festivals they celebrated, and which religions and ideologies shaped their view of the world.

The study of history deals with the historical roots of current phenomena such as migration, racism and global inequality and questions the relationship between humans and the environment or the change in gender roles.

Furthermore, historical studies questions how the historical past is used as an argument in political disputes and, if necessary, even instrumentalised.

Programme Structure

What you will learn:

Studying history is more than just learning about the past. During their studies, students of history learn how to deal critically with historical sources and scientific literature. They are able to argue convincingly in discussions, structure texts or present research results in a generally understandable way.
Depending on the area of research students can also work with the statistical evaluation of quantitative data. These are valuable skills that are becoming increasingly important in today's world and open up diverse and attractive career prospects.
Students of history are able to make neglected connections visible and counter popular conventions. They therefore possess competencies that are essential for a society to critically engage with itself.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-20 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00
Starting 2028-02-22 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-31 00:00:00

Language

English

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Bern, Switzerland

Disciplines

History

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

hold a master's degree or a licentiate from a Swiss university or Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, or an equivalent university degree and

you must also fulfill any other requirements set out by the relevant faculty or graduate school (e.g. specific average grades or a specific result in your master's degree, licentiate, diploma or state exams).

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University of Bern and/or in Switzerland, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

400 CHF / year

≈ 400 CHF / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

400 CHF / year

≈ 400 CHF / year

Living costs

Bern

Switzerland

1655 - 2130 CHF / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find PhD's scholarship opportunities for History.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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