Start of study

Winter semester

Study structure

In a variety of basic modules you will learn about the different areas of philosophy. You will attend introductory seminars on logical semantics and take courses in practical and theoretical philosophy. In addition to this, you will also attend two undergraduate courses in the field of history and classical philosophy. In the advanced module you can select an additional undergraduate course of your own choice.

A Bachelor of Arts degree in the Humanities typically consists of a major subject (120 credits) and a minor subject (40 credits). You are also required to attend the "Überfachliche berufsorientierte Qualifikationen" (Interdisciplinary career preparation) module (20 credits) and complete an internship. Please click here to find out more about studying for a Bachelor of Arts degree in the Humanities.

Please find further information on the study plan.

These documents will support you in planning your studies:

• Module guide
• Examination regulation

At the University of Konstanz, you have a broad range of opportunities and training options that complement your study programme, for example orientation programmes to support new students, learning guidance, language courses, a data and information literacy programme as well as options promoting career-oriented skills and social commitment.

• GoMINt – orientation programme in STEM subjects
• Writing Centre – writing tutoring, joint writing sessions and workshops
• Language courses at the Language Institute
• Learning guidance, study tips, time management – workshops offered by the Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB)

• Advanced Data and Information Literacy Track (ADILT) – programme can be completed with a certificate
• Transfer – practical projects (research, business, politics and society)
• qualification N – Sustainability Certificate at the University of Konstanz

• Profil+ – programme for career skills (German skills required)
• Career Passport – programme for career skills (for international students)
• Advice on career entry, opportunities and workshops from Career Service

Hear from students and lecturers
In our interview series, students talk about their subject, teachers explain the department's research and tell you what topics they cover in seminars and lectures.

• Three Questions to Hanan, B.A. Philosophy
• Three Questions to Kurt, B.A. Philosophy

Get an impression
Discover online lectures and websites with more information about your prospective subject.

• Information page for the study course Philosophy
• What distinguishes the study of philosophy in Konstanz?
• Beauty and the Beast - Why does Philosophy care about animals?
• Lecture recordings (Philosophy)

The same general entry requirements apply for the major and minor:

General higher education entrance qualification (Abitur) or equivalent.

Further information can be found in the admission regulations.

Semester fee
All students enrolled at the University of Konstanz are charged a semester fee each semester, similar to all other German universities. Here you can find the current semester fee and its individual components.

Tuition fees for first degree studies for certain international students
Since winter semester 2017/18, the state of Baden-Württemberg has required some international students to pay tuition fees for their first degree studies. The following students are not required to pay tuition fees: citizens of a country within the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA), doctoral students and certain “Bildungsinländer” (e.g. non-EU citizens with a German “Abitur”). More detailed information can be found here.

Each year, the University of Konstanz grants exemptions to a limited number of particularly gifted international degree-seeking students in accordance with the university’s “Begabtenbefreiungssatzung” (statutes governing the exemption of gifted students). More detailed information can be found here.

Tuition fees for second degree studies for all students
All students are required to pay tuition fees for their second degree studies. More detailed information can be found here.

Foreign language skills
You do not have to proof any foreign language skills.

The languages of instruction and examinations are German and English.

You should really enjoy working with scientific, complex and often very abstract texts. You should be able not only to read texts thoroughly and critically, but also to structure and write your own. Abstract thinking should come easily to you, and you should have a lively interest in logical and consistent reasoning. Philosophy students also need a good command of English, because a large amount of the relevant literature is written in this language. But most of all you need to have a deep-seated interest in philosophical questions, because this will provide you with the motivation and endurance needed to complete the highly demanding course of study.

If you are uncertain whether the study of philosophy really suits your interests and abilities, you should take a look at the department’s websites. They will provide you with some important tips and examples of original texts that will be explored during your studies. Of course, you are not expected to immediately understand these texts before beginning your studies. But you should certainly feel the desire and be prepared to make the effort to deal intensely with these texts.

Application documents

During the online application process, you will need to enter various kinds of information (school grades, attendance periods etc.) and upload various PDF documents. Please make sure that you have the relevant documentation ready. This may include:

• your Abitur certificate (German general higher education entrance qualification)
• documentation of any volunteering you may have done (FSJ, FÖJ etc.)
• any documentation about vocational training you may have completed
• any other required documents (medical certificate etc.)

An electronic assistant will guide you through the application process. Required fields are marked by an asterisk (*).

An application is possible during the following period: 07.05. - 15.09.
There may be other deadlines if you are applying for admission to a higher semester (for instance, if you are changing subjects or universities). For more information please consult the university website .

The Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB) can help you with general questions about finding the right study programme as well as when you are concerned or unsure about your studies. We will be happy to advise you and support you with a wide range of services .

Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB)
Room: D 409 – 412a
Make an appointment: termin.zsb@uni-konstanz.de

Questions related to the content or organization of the study programme:
Departmental student advisory service
Dr. Michael Kieninger
Room: G 605
Phone: +49 7531 88-2745
Email.: studienberatung-philosophie@uni.kn