The German Language & Culture Major is aimed at students developing a high level of competence in the German language as well as a critical understanding of the German-speaking cultures. Students can choose from courses in German language, linguistics, literature, society and cultural studies, including film and gender studies. Students are encouraged to study abroad and take advantage of exchange agreements with partner universities in Germany and Austria.
German is the most commonly spoken first language in the European Union. With a rich literary and philosophical heritage, German is a language of culture, science, technology, trade and international relations. This role has increased since Germany's reunification with Germany playing a leading role in European politics. Its capital Berlin boasts a dynamic art scene and has become a centre of global youth culture: “Berlin ist cool!”
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Due to structural changes in the undergraduate program rules in 2012, the courses that make up the new 2012 majors may be different to the pre-2012 majors, and therefore some courses cannot be counted between majors. Students are advised to contact the CASS Student Office if they are unsure about their Majors.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- express viewpoints and develop arguments confidently in German, incorporating some complex sentence structures. Students can expect to achieve approximately the B2 level or higher of the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).
- use the language for academic purposes, e.g. essay writing with referencing, class presentations, and research related to the German language and associated cultures.
- read, understand, and analyse German literary texts, films, and a range of print, visual and digital media in the context of German-speaking cultures.
- demonstrate an understanding of the modern history of the German-speaking countries.
- demonstrate intercultural awareness.
Relevant Degrees
Requirements
The exact sequence of courses depends on students’ language proficiency when beginning with the major. Language level placement tests are held prior to commencement. Students are advised to check prerequisites carefully and plan their major accordingly.
This major requires the completion of 48 units, which must include:
A minimum of 12 units from completion of courses from the following list:
GERM2105 Intermediate German 1
GERM3106 Intermediate German 2
GERM3007 Advanced German 1
GERM3008 Advanced German 2
A maximum of 36 units from completion of courses from the following list:
GERM1021 Introduction to German (1)
GERM1022 Introduction to German (2)
GERM2103 Continuing German 1
GERM2104 Continuing German 2
GERM2020 Post-war German Society
GERM2046 German Cinema
GERM2048 Spoken Interaction in German
GERM2112 Selected Topics in German Studies
GERM2113 German Film Since the Wall: Identity, History and Belonging
GERM3020 Contemporary German Society
GERM3046 German Cinema
GERM3048 Spoken Interaction in German
GERM3049 Berlin Stories: Places, Words, Images
GERM3050 Gender in German Culture: From Goethe to Trans*
A maximum of 12 units from completion of courses from the following list, which must have a course topic of German to be included in this major:
LANG3001 Translation across Languages: the translation of literary texts
LANG3002 Translation across Languages: specialised material
LANG3003 European Narrative
LANG3005 Language and Identity in a European Context
