Master's Degree in Contemporary History and Today's World
Barcelona, Spain
Master degree
DURATION
1 year
LANGUAGES
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
TUITION FEES
EUR 19 / per credit *
STUDY FORMAT
Distance Learning, On-Campus
* 19.37 euros per credit (82 euros for students who are not EU nationals and do not currently reside in Spain). Fees for the academic year 2025-2026
Key Summary
The master's degree in Contemporary History and Today's World, which is organized by the University of Barcelona and the Open University of Catalonia, seeks to train students and professionals interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the history and dynamics of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and the complexity of today's world.
The master's degree examines the processes of evolution and rupture that have occurred from the beginning of the nineteenth century to the present day. The degree takes a broad view of history in order to develop the students' ability to analyse and comprehend the historical and cultural diversity of the world in which we live and, through this understanding, to foster respect for the values of others and greater concern for civic-mindedness.
The languages of instruction for this program are Spanish 20%; Catalan 80%.
In this program, students will:
- Develop a detailed, critical understanding of the fundamental theoretical and methodological aspects of the study of history, the evolution of different theories of historical analysis, and the main problems and areas of discussion in this field of study.
- Acquire the analytical problem-solving skills to transform diverse types of information and data into valuable historical knowledge.
- Acquire a detailed, diachronic understanding of the major events and processes of change and continuity in human history from the beginning of the nineteenth century to the present day, focusing particularly on historical and cultural diversity and developing a respect for the values of others.
- Acquire advanced knowledge of the theoretical and methodological principles underlying the study of societies, particularly in times of change (crisis, conflict, transformation, etc.), involving the ability to critically examine any kind of source or document.
- Acquire a comprehensive knowledge of the concepts, categories, theories, interpretative models and issues that shape the study of contemporary history.
- Develop a critical approach to the study of history and the ability to summarize and critically appraise the major periods, processes and events of contemporary history.
- Consolidate and improve the capacity for spoken and written expression and the accurate use of specialized terminology.
- Transmit and disseminate the knowledge acquired in a clear manner, to specialists and non-specialists.
- Demonstrate the learning skills to facilitate further learning requiring a self-directed approach.
The University of Barcelona consistently ranks among the top institutions nationally, in Europe, and worldwide. Its performance in the most prestigious international rankings reflects excellence in teaching, research, knowledge transfer, and global engagement.
- Ranked 1st nationally in the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU)
- Ranked 1st nationally in the THE (Times Higher Education) World University Rankings
- Ranked 1st nationally and 68th in Europe in the QS World University Rankings
- Ranked 1st nationally and 27th in Europe in the Best Global Universities Rankings
Studying at the University of Barcelona means joining a world-class academic community recognized for its innovation and impact.
The course is intended for students trained in historical research who want to analyse in greater depth contemporary historical study, diverse lines of research, and the latest trends in the field of contemporary historical science. In addition, the degree seeks to prepare professionals who can apply their knowledge of history to professional activities in the areas of culture and communication.
The master's degree provides access to doctoral studies for those interested in pursuing further research.