In addition to teaching overall and special knowledge it wants to help with source related scientific work involving the application of methodological and theoretical concepts. Particular attention is paid to the independent development of historical issues.

All courses usually have an aligned European and cultural history component thus creating the ability to work historically comparative and interdisciplinary.

The choice of topics depends on the orientation needs of the present and the current questions of historical research and is thus both, research-based and is reflecting society.

The teaching is characterized here by a reference to research, interdisciplinarity and practical orientation. In addition to a broad range for specific scientific studies, there is a research-intensive and didactics that are practice oriented.

The guidance and motivation for independent scientific work and close supervision and guidance of students are integral elements of the Institute.