German Studies Major

Undergraduate majors develop advanced language proficiency in German and demonstrate knowledge of the institutions, values and cultural products of the German-speaking world. The major consists of 9 credits in the core language sequence (GERM204, 301, 302); 27 credits of 300- and 400-level courses (6 credits of language courses; 6 credits of literature courses; 6 credits of culture courses; and 9 credits of electives).

Program Learning Outcomes

Students who complete the requirements for the major in German studies can expect to be able to speak, read, write and understand German at a level that would allow them to communicate with native speakers, to recognize and interpret the diverse cultural perspectives and products of the German-speaking world and to be culturally sensitive members of society. Students will acquire the following knowledge and skills:

1. Understand and make themselves understood by native speakers of German in spoken and written media; recognize and use a variety of registers of written and spoken German; practice both spontaneous and reflective writing; translate texts from German to English beyond a word-for-word level; and recognize strategies for improving linguistic competence in German.
2. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of major ideas in the study of texts and traditions of the German-speaking world.
3. Interpret written texts in a variety of genres and understand the importance of authorial or speaker perspective in the interpretation of texts.
4. Conduct research in the fields of language, literature and culture in German.
5. Demonstrate sensitivity toward speakers and learners of other languages and toward individuals and groups from diverse cultural and linguistic traditions.

Study Abroad and Internships

Study abroad for at least one summer session is highly recommended. With the approval of the undergraduate advisor, courses taken through study abroad may be applied to the total of 36 credits. Internships (GERM386) are also encouraged (up to 6 credits may be applied to the major) and should be coordinated with the undergraduate advisor for approval.

Declaring the German Studies Major

Step 1: Carefully read all GERM major requirements.

Step 2: Read through all information carefully and pencil in a sequence of courses to discuss with Undergraduate Advisor Dr. Regina Ianozi, ianozi@umd.edu.

Step 3: Contact the Office of Student Affairs at the College of Arts and Humanities (301-405-2108) to make an appointment to discuss the non-German studies aspects of your 4-year-plan (bring signed form from previous step), including CORE courses. Walk-in hours are also available.

Step 4: If you are adding German studies as an additional major, check with your home department and college to identify paperwork you may need to complete.