University for everyone Collegium generale

History and role

Originating from the "Cultural and historical lectures" which began in 1929, the Collegium generale has been active in the University of Bern since 1954, making it the University's oldest  independent, interdisciplinary institute.

The role of the Collegium generale is to promote cross-disciplinary dialog within the university through events for teaching staff and students and to communicate examples of this work to members of all faculties and the wider public by means of publications and lecture series.

Each series of lectures provides information about interdisciplinary issues and the status of research in Bern as well as of national and international scholarship. Lecture series are held in the spring and fall semesters and are delivered by invited speakers from both within and outside the university.

The literary readings of the Collegium generale provide insights into the sensibilities of our culture and society. Unlike the Collegium generale conferences (e.g. Münchenwiler seminar) these events are also open to interested members of the public outside the university, who may attend free of charge.

Collegium generale publications appear in the Bern University Papers series.

Special events in conjunction with other organizations also enable the Collegium generale to respond to current social and educational policy issues.

Since the winter semester 2005/06, students attending the lecture series have been credited with 3 ECTS points upon completing the course requirements.