Major in German (BA or BS)

Overview

A major or minor in German language, literature, and culture familiarizes students with the rich cultural traditions of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland through intensive language training and work with literary and cultural texts. Students learn to comprehend, read, speak, and write the language at an advanced level in classes that focus on practical aspects of usage (such as speaking or grammar). Students also strengthen their cultural knowledge and critical reasoning in classes that help them to understand and develop interpretive arguments about literature and film. They enhance their awareness of diversity in courses that teach them about significant minorities (religious, cultural, racial, or otherwise) in different periods of German history since the Reformation. This major focus provides an excellent background for careers in international affairs, law, publishing, teaching, journalism, international business, and tourism, as well as for artistic fields and graduate study. Majors and minors choosing this focus are encouraged to spend time studying abroad on our exchange program with universities in the state of Baden-Württemberg.

4 students sitting enjoying a picnic and smiling at the camera.

Requirements for the Major in German (BA or BS)

  1. Core Language Courses:
    • GER 201 Second-Year German I
    • GER 202 Second-Year German II
    • GER 203 Second-Year German III
    • GER 301 Intermediate Language Training I
    • GER 302 Intermediate Language Training II
    • GER 303 Intermediate Language Training III
    • GER 411 Advanced Language Training
       
  2. Five German Literature and Culture Courses:
    • All GER subject code courses except language courses listed above.
    • At least three of the five German literature and culture courses must be upper division courses with the GER subject code, taught in the German language, and must be taken at the University of Oregon.
    • Of the remaining two literature and culture courses, up to two may be courses taught in English (GER 200-level courses, GER 345, GER 350-359). One or both of these may be at the 200 level and both must be courses with the GER subject code.
       
  3. The following courses may not be used to satisfy major requirements:
    • GER 199 Special Studies
    • GER 405 Reading and Conference
    • GER 406 Special Problems
    • GER 408 Workshop
    • GER 409 Practicum  (Exception: GER 409 Practicum Teaching Internship (4 credits) will satisfy a requirement for the major or minor.)
       
  4. Since all courses are not offered every year, plans should be made well in advance so that students can take prerequisites for 400-level courses. Specific questions should be addressed to departmental undergraduate German advisors.

 

To declare a major or minor, or ask any questions about our programs, go to our Advising page.