Regional sciences

Regional studies programmes not only deal with the history, language, art and culture of different regions and cultural areas, but also with social and economic processes. Students are taught regional studies knowledge and intercultural skills.

Among other things, regional scientists deal with religious, cultural, linguistic and social science issues. They analyse the respective region using scientific methods. Geographical specialisations include Asia, Africa, North and Latin America as well as Central and Eastern Europe.

In addition to language courses and history and political science subjects, the curriculum also includes ethnological and cultural content. In economics modules, students study the industrial character of the respective region, among other things. But the literary and media landscape is also examined - e.g. in further study programmes with corresponding specialisations. Subject titles include ‘American History, Culture and Society’ or ‘Latin American Cultural and Media Studies’. 

To study Regional Studies, it is helpful if you have knowledge of the following school subjects: history, politics/social studies, English, French, Spanish, economics/law and geography.

Depending on the university, a local selection procedure may be used. In some cases, language skills in one or more foreign languages are required.

The regional studies programmes are offered at undergraduate and postgraduate level. Typical programme titles are, for example, Regional Studies Asia/Africa, Southeast Asian Studies, African Studies, East Asian Studies, Integrated European Studies, Interdisciplinary Russian Studies, European Studies, Latin American and Old American Studies, American Studies and North American Studies.