Frequently asked questions before starting the study program

No, being able to play an instrument is not a prerequisite for studying musicology. In some courses, such as theory of harmony, students play some very simple chords on the piano (under instructions).

A Swiss Matura or its foreign equivalent (e.g. German Abitur) is required for a bachelor's program. Please check with the Admissions and Enrolment Advisory Service (ZIB) whether your degree is equivalent before applying. 

A Bachelor's degree in a Musicology or related subject (e.g. Theater Studies major with a minor in Musicology) is required for a Master's degree. If you have not completed your Bachelor's degree in musicology, you will probably have to make up the credits. In this case, please contact the Studiengangsleitung (studienleitung.musik@unibe.ch) and send a transcript of records, i.e. a list of the academic achievements to date.

No language diploma (in Latin or another foreign language) is required to start studying in Bern. The language of teaching is usually German. Some seminars or lectures are also held in English. Therefore, in addition to knowledge of German at level C1, knowledge of English is required to enable fluent reading of English-language research literature. Written assignments can also be written in English, French or Italian (after consultation with the lecturers).

Musicology is a largely theoretical study program. Some courses may involve singing or playing from time to time. Music is not played regularly in class. However, the student council and the student body organize various choirs and ensembles in which students can get involved.

No. There is no entrance examination for the musicology degree program in Bern. All interested students are welcome. 

Either a minor subject (60 ECTS) or two minor subjects (30 ECTS each) can be chosen for a major program. There is no such thing as a perfect combination of subjects. Precisely because musicology is so diverse in terms of method and content, there are always points of contact. However, the specializations covered at the institute in Bern may provide some guidance as to which minor subjects are particularly suitable: Music theater (certainly complements well with theater studies or the various linguistics), cultural anthropology of music (complements well with social anthropology) and historical musicology (complements well with subjects such as art history, literature or history).

There is no strict timetable in musicology. You can organize your week as you wish. However, there are courses that should be completed at the beginning of your studies if possible (e.g. basic courses and exercises).
 

Yes, the courses take place on campus.

Basically yes. There is no universal answer to the question of how much you can work during your studies. Students are very different in this aspect. Many students have part-time jobs, but they vary greatly. It is strongly recommended not to work more than 50% while studying full-time.

Yes, but if you would like to start in the spring semester, please contact the Student Advisor.