Studium generale

As a general studies ( occasionally also contextual studies, fundamental studies or studies called universal ) are nowadays usually referred to all non-compulsory, public courses a university. In the spirit of humanistic education heritage they embody the mission of higher education, to promote the comprehensive general education. A completion of such events will never be rewarded with an academic degree.

Moreover, the term refers to a usually two-semester orientation phase, visit the freshmen courses in various disciplines at the same time. This should enable better decision in the choice of subject and at the same time facilitate the transition from a pure learning operation of the school for academic work at the university.

Origin

Originally the studia generalia or the studia the name of the great schools of the Middle Ages, while the word universitas was used for the scholastic guild of study. With the end of the 13th century it was common for a general studies only after licensing by pope, emperor or king the right to award academic degrees to concede.

As a study component

At several German universities and colleges a " general studies " will be included in the study. Partial participation in such events is even obligatory, and there are separate institutions for the general studies; for example, at the University of Mainz.

At the University of Witten / Herdecke, the study is fundamental since the founding of the University in 1983 part of the training. First, since 1983 there was a corresponding institution, but since 1993 there is a separate faculty. The fundamental studies is a compulsory course work that must be done by students of all faculties Witten. On one day in the week no expert lectures take place, but the students can in the extensive range of fundamental studies, the events turn out looking that match their interests. The range of events is not chosen arbitrarily, but specifically aimed at the development of artistic, communicative and reflexive competencies.

Similar mechanisms are at other universities, as in Zittau / Görlitz, Erfurt, at the Alanus College of Arts and Social Sciences in Alfter in Bonn and at the universities of Hamburg Bucerius Law School, HafenCity University, the Zeppelin University in Friedrichshafen ( Foundation phase called ) and the University of Lüneburg (complementary course). Faculty in Witten now offers degree courses in philosophy and cultural studies at.

The Leibniz Kolleg in Tübingen offers since 1948 a one-year general studies that is to introduce into scientific work and make a reasoned decision to study, but is not part of ordinary programs.

As a non-university education form

For the purposes of " education for sustainable development " (ESD), a study fundamental to all areas of education as a standard in the non-university sector for the development of sustainable thinking and action are understood, what the participants estimate better able how one's own actions future generations or life in other regions of the world affects. A similar offer was "fundamental - The Young Academy " developed in 2009 in Leipzig.