About This Program
German Studies prepares you to be a global citizen. German-speaking countries are global economic leaders, are at the forefront in efforts for sustainable living, are innovators in science and industry, and have a rich artistic and cultural past and present. If you are drawn to in-depth interdisciplinary study of language and culture, have a desire to study or work in international contexts, and are eager to expand your horizons, then German Studies is for you.
Courses are taught in German because language is central to communication, communities, and cultures. Through our active, student-centered classes, you will develop the skills to listen, speak, read, and write in German, while also growing your capacity for critical and creative thinking, oral and written communication skills, digital literacies, and intercultural competence. Learning German strengthens your ability to think in new ways and prepares you for in-depth study. In interdisciplinary courses, you will study literature, film, art, music, history, politics, performance, and new media, learning to connect cultural practices, products, and perspectives.
Program Highlights
- All the benefits of a comprehensive university, opening exciting possibilities for double majors and minors, for example, Environment and Sustainability Studies
Research & Experiential Learning
- Rich opportunities for study abroad, including our exchange program with the University of Passau, and a short-term UMD faculty-led course in Berlin
- Scholarships are available to support study abroad, and faculty work closely with students to choose the right program and explore funding opportunities
Student Internships
- FairVote Minnesota
- Human Development Center
Potential Careers
- Diplomacy and foreign service
- Interpretation and translation
- Bilingual and intercultural education
- International NGOs (United Nations, Peace Corps, VISTA, and Americorps)
- International business and international law
- Journalism and international media
- Linguistics
- Military service
- Archival work
- Museum curation
Scholarships
CAHSS is proud to be able to offer over 90 alumni and donor funded scholarships to our students each year. Each department facilitates the process for their specific scholarships and students are also encouraged to apply for CAHSS-wide scholarships offered to students in any field. Some scholarships in the Department of World Languages and Cultures include:
- Alayne and Charles Berkins Scholarship
- Jonathan B. Conant Scholarship
- Frances A Knoblauch Scholarship
- Hax Family Scholarship
Get Involved
The German Culture Club is a student-run organization for all things related to German language and culture; with trips, cultural events, hikes, parties, and more. In addition, club members participate in our German Stammtisch, which gives students and community members a chance to speak German and meet new people in an informal setting.
Requirements
Refer to the link below for more detailed information about the program, admission requirements, sample plans, and contact information.