University of Zurich

The Master’s programme “History of the Contemporary World” at the University of Zurich trains you to analyse modern and contemporary developments using historical methods. You will work with research-based seminars and learn how digital tools can support historical scholarship in a global context. Programme type: Research-oriented Master’s programme Duration: Typically 4 semesters (2 years) Credits: 120 ECTS (typical for a Master’s programme) Delivery: On-campus (University of Zurich) Interdisciplinary focus: Modern and contemporary history; cultural, social, political, and intellectual history Research & methods: Seminars, archive/museum-related learning, and digital methods in historical scholarship Language of instruction: Usually English and/or German (confirm for your intake) Tuition fees: Vary by student category; check University of Zurich fee information Application: Submit via the University of Zurich application portal Start dates: Typically autumn semester (confirm for your intake) English requirements: IELTS or TOEFL iBT accepted (see admission requirements)

Programme Structure

The programme combines subject-specific modules with methodological training and research-oriented coursework. Students take courses from the programme’s core offerings and additional modules from the Department of History’s modern-period curriculum.

Core courses (examples)

• Archives, Technologies and Media
• Cultural History and Media History in the Modern Era
• Politics, Cultures and Societies in Eastern Europe
• Social History and Economic History of the Modern World
• The History of Knowledge and the History of Science

Research and methods

• Research-based seminars focused on historical argumentation, source criticism, and academic writing
• Training in digital methods for historical scholarship (e.g., working critically with digital sources and research tools)
• Opportunities for engagement with archives and/or museums through course-linked activities

Capstone / final assessment

• Master’s thesis (research project culminating in a written thesis; topic chosen in consultation with academic supervisors)

Note: Exact module titles, sequencing, and elective options can vary by academic year. Always verify the current module catalogue for the intake you plan to apply for.

Academic requirements

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

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT TOEFL iBT® is accepted by more than 13,000 universities and other institutions in over 160 countries. The test can be taken at a test center or at home. The test measures your English-language abilities in an academic setting. The score refers to the total score of 4 subjects (writing, listening, speaking, and reading), each subject has a range of 0 - 30.

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS The International English Language Test System (IELTS) tests your English-language proficiency on a scale of 1 – 9. The score refers to the combined average score of 4 subjects (writing, listening, speaking, and reading).

7

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Other requirements

General requirements

• Bachelor’s diploma or a degree that is at least equivalent from a state-accredited university.
• Credits for any transferred coursework must also have been acquired at a state-accredited university.
• The degree program must last at least three years (of regular full-time study: 180 ECTS credits or equivalent workload).
• The diploma must be state-accredited (no equivalency certificates or university-internal confirmations of the successful completion of interim sections).
• The diploma must grant entitlement to undertake a consecutive Master’s program at a state-accredited university in the relevant country.

Application documents (typical)

• Completed online application form
• Official transcripts and degree certificate (or proof of completion)
• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL iBT as listed above)
• Curriculum vitae and/or motivation statement (if required by the programme)
• Any additional documents requested by the Faculty of Arts and/or the Department of History

Tip: Requirements can differ by applicant profile and previous degree. Check the University of Zurich application checklist for your intake.

"Highlights"

Graduates of a Master’s programme at the University of Zurich may be eligible to apply for a post-study residence permit in Switzerland, subject to Swiss immigration rules and the conditions of their specific permit category.

• Eligibility: Typically requires that you have completed your degree and hold a valid residence status for study at the time of graduation.
• Purpose: The permit is intended to allow time to seek employment or start a job after graduation.
• Duration: The permitted stay after graduation is granted for a limited period and may vary depending on your circumstances and current Swiss regulations.
• Employment requirements: If you secure qualifying employment, you may be able to transition to a work/residence permit linked to your job.
• Important: Switzerland’s rules can change. Final eligibility and the exact duration depend on your nationality, degree level, and the latest cantonal/federal requirements.

For the most accurate guidance, consult the Swiss Federal Office for Migration (SEM) and the University of Zurich’s international office resources for post-study options.