Study history in Spain - 10 institutions

Teaching methods for history in Spain differ from standard programs in other countries. Schools offering history studies in Spain and universities place the main emphasis in their curricula on building deep knowledge, developing critical thinking, the ability to self-identify and define one's role in creating a new version of society in the present. Spanish educators view history not only as a science of the past, but also as a science that shapes the future.

The core component of any history department in Spain is the study of Spanish history and its culture. Local and international students explore important eras of Spanish history: the period of conquest and colonization, revolutions, the civil war, etc. Additionally, they study the country's historical figures, famous personalities, cultural achievements, and its current heritage.

Teaching methods at history departments in Spain are based not on a single approach, but on a combination of them, which includes:

• interactive lectures and seminars,
• analysis and evaluation of historical documents,
• group and individual projects,
• excursions to historical sites and museums,
• discussion formats,
• research, etc.

Many universities in the country have Spanish history schools for international students and local residents. At Spanish universities, students can study at the history faculty at any level: bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs.

Among the best universities in Spain with history schools are:

• Universidade Santiago de Compostela. Here students can study at the faculty of geography and history, which offers 9 areas of specialization: archaeology, library science and documentation, historiographical sciences and methods, ancient history, contemporary history, history of the Americas, medieval history, modern history, and prehistory. Within these areas, students can choose specific academic programs, for example, obtaining a master's degree in contemporary history or archaeology and ancient sciences.
• Saint Louis University-Madrid. The university offers a program that combines the creative and the scientific — art history. During their studies, students determine the significance of art in different cultures and throughout world history, as well as the social, historical, and cultural context of art. A classic program is also available — history, where students are provided with expert knowledge in the fields of medieval, early modern, and contemporary European history, the interaction of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish cultures of Spain, etc.
• Suffolk University Madrid. This university also offers an "Art History" program. However, here the curriculum includes an analysis of how paintings and monuments communicate with the viewer and act upon society: enlightenment, evoking emotions, changing perception. The classic history program at the university develops research skills, evidence gathering, argumentation, logical thinking, and written and oral expression. Graduates of the faculty are in high demand in the fields of law, business, teaching, public service, and the media. The university's history department has strong expertise in European, African American, American, and Asian history; additional areas include public history and women's and gender history.