Universidad Complutense de Madrid - UCM
speciality: History

The History degree at the Complutense University of Madrid (UCM), particularly under the old pre-Bologna system, was a mixed bag of experiences. One of its greatest strengths was the freedom it offered, both in the curriculum and teaching methods. This allowed for a diverse range of approaches by professors, providing students with varied perspectives and ways of engaging with the material.

However, the degree was hindered by its old-fashioned structure. The predominant reliance on lecture-based teaching created a one-way flow of information, with minimal interaction, participation, or collaborative learning. There was a noticeable absence of projects, research opportunities, and dynamic classroom activities. Instead, assessment depended almost entirely on written exams at the end of each semester, leaving little room for continuous evaluation or practical application of knowledge. Of course this was not the case with every department and especially the final two years of the degree showed noticeable improvement, with some professors incorporating more participatory activities and fostering greater engagement in their courses.

Overall, while the degree provided a solid theoretical foundation and breadth in historical studies (I’d dare say more so than within the current framework), it lacked the modern, participatory methodologies that could have made the learning experience more engaging and rounded.

In general, it is a university with an extensive international program and a lot of courses and offers, but on the communication side it leaves something to be desired, and what I would like most would be the opportunity for better organized internships.