Why Study German Studies?
German Studies combines language learning with the study of literature, history, philosophy, politics, and the arts—helping you understand how ideas move across cultures and shape today’s world.
Language + Ideas Across Disciplines
Explore big questions through German perspectives on philosophy, politics, literature, and the arts, discovering how language shapes culture and ideas.
Fluency with Flexibility
Develop strong language skills while taking courses on German topics across disciplines, including those taught in English.
Local and Global Connections
Engage with German-speaking communities through study abroad programs and connections to the German diplomatic community in Texas.
It’s a good fit for you if you:
- Enjoy learning languages and want to develop proficiency in German while exploring the cultures of German-speaking countries.
- Are interested in European history, politics, philosophy, literature, and the arts from an international perspective.
- Want to gain intercultural communication skills and broaden your understanding of global societies.
- Are considering careers in international business, diplomacy, education, government, research, or other globally focused fields.
- Look forward to opportunities for study abroad, cultural immersion, and engaging with diverse perspectives and experiences.
German Studies pairs well with:
- International Studies
- Political Science
- Business Administration
- Economics
- History
- Philosophy
- Music
The German Studies (B.A.)
The German Studies major challenges you to think across disciplines while building advanced language proficiency. Coursework connects German with literature, history, philosophy, politics, and the arts to prepare you for globally focused careers and graduate study.
In-Demand Skills
You’ll gain skills in:
- Advanced speaking, reading, and writing in German
- Cross-cultural communication and interpretation
- Close reading, research, and analytical writing
Interdisciplinary Curriculum:
Complete 32 credit hours that blend advanced language coursework with upper-level study in German literature, history, and culture. You’ll also have the flexibility to count approved German-focused courses from art history, music, philosophy, political science, and theatre toward the major.
Course Spotlight
See how German Studies connects language with history, film, politics, innovation, and the people and places that continue to shape the German-speaking world.
Visions of Berlin
A city shaped by history.
Explore Berlin through its architecture, literature, film, and politics while discovering how one city reflects Germany’s transformation from the 19th century to today.
German Cinema
History through the lens of film.
Analyze influential German films to examine identity, politics, memory, and cultural change while strengthening your understanding of the German-speaking world.
Holocaust Studies
Understanding the past to shape the future.
Examine the Holocaust through literature, history, and culture while exploring questions of memory, ethics, and human rights that continue to resonate today.
Introduction to German Literature and Culture
Discover the ideas that shaped a nation.
Study exemplary works of German literature, theater, and art that illustrate major cultural changes in German history during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
The German Studies Minor
24 Credit Hours | 1.5 to 2 semesters of coursework
Add a global dimension to your major through focused study of German language and the societies that have shaped Europe and the modern world. The minor introduces you to literature, history, politics, and the arts while strengthening your communication and analytical skills.
Choose coursework ranging from beginning language study to advanced seminars, with opportunities to explore German culture through literature, film, philosophy, history, and study abroad.
Students do not need to major in German Studies to pursue this minor.
Meet the Faculty
Faculty don’t just bring German culture to the classroom—they connect students to real German-speaking communities around the world, providing opportunities for internships and study abroad in these areas of the globe.
Recent Graduate Careers
German Studies graduates combine multilingual communication, critical thinking, and global awareness to pursue careers across business, public service, education, research, healthcare, and the arts.
International Business, Finance, and Consulting
Graduates pursue careers in international business, banking, and consulting, applying German language skills in global markets. Study abroad in Germany, one of the world’s largest economies, gives students valuable experience in international professional environments.
Science, Medicine, and Technical Fields
Students combine German with majors in biology and other sciences to pursue careers in medicine, research, and technical fields. Language skills and global experience provide an advantage in international research and healthcare environments.
Law, Government, and Public Service
German Studies supports careers in law, government, and public service by strengthening analytical thinking and cross-cultural understanding. Students gain insight into European history, politics, and institutions, preparing them for work in policy and international contexts.
Education, Culture, and the Arts
Graduates also pursue careers in education, music, and cultural fields, drawing on their knowledge of German literature, history, and the arts. Their ability to interpret cultural contexts and communicate across languages supports work in teaching and creative professions.
Get Your Questions Answered
Students interested in the German Studies major or minor should:
Meet with an academic adviser to explore introductory courses in German Studies, review degree requirements in the course catalog, and contact the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures with any advising questions.