International Bachelor History

“I preferred to do this study in English because it allows me to connect with students from many different places who, because of their various backgrounds, have different perspectives on history.”

Mila van der Ende
Student International Bachelor History

Read Mila's story

“I realized history did not always have to be about ancient Rome or Greece. It can also very well be about analyzing the reason why the West grew rich and the East did not, or how globalization came about.”

Camilla Becker
Student International Bachelor History

After graduating from high school, I did not know what to do next. I knew I was fascinated by history, I just never really thought about studying it at university. I did a lot of research and found the International Bachelor History programme at Erasmus.

I (re)found my passion for history

I realized history did not always have to be about ancient Rome or Greece. It can also very well be about analyzing the reason why the West grew rich and the East did not, or how globalization came about. Topics that matter today had an origin, and it's essential to understand it. While at Erasmus I (re)found my passion for history.

Encouraged to speak my mind

Growing up in South America, I had never studied in English before. Even though I passed IELTS with a decent grade, the language felt like a challenge during the first couple of weeks. However, the lecturers were always helpful in that regard. At the seminars we had three times a week, we discussed a broad variety of topics- for example, what progress really is or what does modernity means. I felt encouraged to speak my mind. Rapidly the fear to speak English was gone.

Going in my second year now I can choose to focus on social, cultural, economic, or international relations history, which gives me the freedom to trace my own path. Living abroad and being in contact with Dutch and international students in Rotterdam makes me interested in international relations and I'm glad I can also study it in my course.

“Historians might not build bridges, save people from a burning house, or harvest a field, but the historical knowledge they collect, upon closer inspection, seems essential to understand people, the society we came to live in, and our very own lives.”

Pavel Cernocan
Student International Bachelor History

My father studied history and used to be a historian early in his life. Growing up, I always admired his ability to make sense of the world and his understanding of the past. Historians might not build bridges, save people from a burning house, or harvest a field, but the historical knowledge they collect, upon closer inspection, seems essential to understand people, the society we came to live in, and our very own lives. The International Bachelor of History at Erasmus offers a great opportunity for anyone interested in contemplating human life and society.

Examine the past in a critical sense

During the first year, you are introduced to the main strands of European and global history in a series of courses that start around the year 1500 and move to today. Also, you will learn about the major social thinkers and their ideas. While presented with this vast amount of evidence and information, you are trained to assess historical evidence and interpretations, to analyse change and continuity, and most importantly — to examine the past in a critical sense. All of this provides a wonderful opportunity to engage in debate and to render a different perspective.

Focus area of interest

In year two, you are encouraged to focus on a area of interest. I chose social history for its humanistic goal of trying to explore the human experience in other times and places. There is a great sense of beauty and excitement in trying to understand how people in distant times chose to build their lives and tested their moral sense and values. The knowledge that social history brings, offers a unique perspective on human life and gives great hope for individual liberty.

A lot of support along the way

Although the programme is challenging at times, you will never feel alone on any issue. The interaction and reciprocity between students and teaching/administrative staff are highly regarded at Erasmus University, and you will be offered a lot of support along the way. Recently, the sudden shift to online classes has taken place with the same level of care and attention as before — an effort that deserves the utmost praise. So, do not be afraid to talk to someone, or ask for help.