Bard College Berlin combines the ideals and formats of US-American liberal arts education with the governance structure and research profile of a German university. A not-for-profit private institution in the public interest, the college is committed to civic and social engagement. With its residential campus and highly international community, BCB fosters dialogue and exchange across distinctive cultural and social backgrounds. Specialized study within the context of a knowledge of global intellectual history, learning through discussion, as well as dedication to undergraduate teaching alongside excellence in scholarship and artistic practice are the essential features of the education provided by Bard College Berlin. As a unique institution in Germany, the college cultivates close ties with other organizations (higher-educational, cultural, political) at local, national and international level, to support initiatives pursued by students and faculty.
The college is pledged to the following principles:
- Freedom of teaching and research
- Researchers and artists working at the highest level engaged in undergraduate teaching
- Teaching and learning pursued through discussion and collaboration
- Individual academic advising and support for the intellectual and personal development of each student
- Community, cooperation and leadership in civic and social engagement
- Specialized study within the context of a core curriculum focused on global cultural and intellectual history, and the origins of the academic fields
- Conversation across distinctive cultures and points of view
- Expansion of access to education for underserved groups
- Inter-institutional cooperation for the purposes of academic and artistic projects, student and faculty mobility, and opportunities for practical training
- Research and artistic work that addresses matters of public concern, and contributes to the strengthening of democratic engagement