The entire curriculum of the Bachelor's programme is taught in English.
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The Bachelor of Arts curriculum in North American Studies provides broad disciplinary and interdisciplinary knowledge on cultural studies, history, literary studies, political science, sociology and economics of North America. It allows a specialisation in two or three of these disciplines, emphasising both the historical-empirical and the theoretical-analytical aspects in the critical discussion of methods and theories. The curriculum is intended to create a competence to judge and apply scientific reasoning in disciplinary and interdisciplinary contexts, preparing students to pursue professional and academic careers. Because the programme is taught entirely in English, students are also trained in their oral skills and writing skills. The programme thrives on its international community of students and scholars.
After a first phase of basic disciplinary and interdisciplinary studies, the students enter consecutive phases of disciplinary orientation and concentration in two or three disciplines. There is also the option to add a module package from a wide array of other disciplines. Advanced language instruction as well as courses and modules that help to acquire general occupational competence and to establish the employability of the students are integral elements of the curriculum. The curriculum includes a phase of studies abroad, which usually takes place in the fifth semester. A thesis must be submitted in one's first discipline of specialisation.
Students are encouraged to spend part of their studies abroad, but this is not mandatory. Freie Universität Berlin maintains close ties with a number of prestigious Canadian and American universities as part of the university's direct exchange programme. The Kennedy Institute offers a stay abroad at one of 22 European universities as part of the Erasmus programme.
At least one internship has to be completed as an obligatory element of the curriculum. Programme advisers can assist students in finding and choosing appropriate internships.
In total, the semester contribution amounts to 304.40 EUR. It includes a fee of 181.40 EUR for the transportation ticket contribution. This allows you to use public transportation in Berlin for free. Other costs covered by the semester contribution include a 50 EUR enrolment fee, a 63 EUR semester contribution to the student support service ("studierendenWERK Berlin"), and a 10 EUR contribution to the student union.
Compared to other European countries, the cost of living in Germany is quite reasonable. However, the cost of living has also risen somewhat in Germany in recent years. The prices for food, accommodation, clothing, cultural events, etc. are slightly above the EU average. You will need around 950 to 1,200 EUR each month to cover your living expenses. The biggest expense is monthly rent, which is between 400 and 700 EUR in Berlin.
The Deutschlandstipendium scholarship enables students at Freie Universität Berlin (FU Berlin) from all nations and walks of life to fully concentrate on their studies. The programme supports talented students with 300 EUR per month. To apply, you must already be enrolled and be within the standard period of time given to complete your degree during the funding period, or you must have a letter of acceptance to start a degree programme at Freie Universität Berlin.
For the application, a higher education/university entrance qualification and proof of English proficiency is needed. For application deadlines, see the Freie Universität's academic calendar:
http://www.fu-berlin.de/en/studium/studienorganisation/termine/index.html
Applicants must provide proof of their English language skills: C1 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
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Freie Universität Berlin
c/o uni-assist e.V.
11507 Berlin
Germany
There are many ways of earning money while you study, for example as waiting staff, academic assistants, or private tutors. Knowledge of German will improve your chances of finding a part-time job, but it isn’t necessarily required. However, it is important to be aware of the legal regulations.
The student support service at the university, called studierendenWERK Berlin, and the local representative of the "Bundesagentur für Arbeit" (Federal Employment Agency) can provide information about jobs for students. When searching for a job, look at online job boards, ads in local newspapers, and notice boards on campus.
You have the option to stay in a public/private student dormitory or in a private (shared) apartment. Student dormitories are not administrated by the university itself, so Freie Universität Berlin does not have any on-campus housing. However, it works together with "studierendenWERK Berlin" regarding student accommodation.
If you do not wish to stay in a student dormitory, you can try to find a room or an apartment on the private housing market. Many students in Berlin live in shared apartments ("WGs"). You can find these offers online (e.g. WG-gesucht or Kleinanzeigen) or on notice boards on campus.
Available rooms/apartments near the university are rare. Therefore, students mostly commute from other parts of the city. The commute via public transportation usually takes between 30 minutes and an hour, which is considered a normal travel time in Berlin due to the city's size.
The Career Service of Freie Universität Berlin aims to support international students at Freie Universität by providing information, advice, and events related to career planning, internships, and job applications.
The International Student Support team at FU Berlin regularly offers information events that include Q&A sessions. While personal office hours are not available due to our team size, students can contact Info-Service Study for general inquiries, or seek assistance from the General Academic Advisory Service or Psychological Counselling for more complex concerns. Additionally, the team continually enhances its expertise in international affairs, thereby contributing to FU Berlin's internationalisation process.
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