German B.A.

The purpose of the German curriculum is to introduce students to the language, literature, and culture of German-speaking countries. The courses are designed to promote a global perspective by encouraging students to take a close look at another culture and in this way become aware of both the diversity and similarity among all people. The courses satisfy general education and major/minor requirements and prepare students for teaching or graduate study.

Objectives--Students develop a number of skills in German, including comprehension and speaking, reading and writing, to communicate effectively in German about everyday situations, literature, and culture. On all levels, students gain an awareness of the structure of languages and facility with the German idiom, enabling them to read and write reports and papers. In literature seminars, students learn aesthetic appreciation through the interpretation of texts and to organize their thoughts for effective argumentation. Many German courses give students an interdisciplinary perspective, using history, art, architecture, music, and film. Cultural immersion abroad increases fluency and proficiency. The German program prepares its graduates for careers in teaching, business, political science, medicine, music, psychology, philosophy, and law.

STUDY ABROAD
In light of today's increasingly interdependent world, the UMM German faculty endorses study abroad in combination with a German major or minor, as the most effective means by which to:

¿ improve language abilities
¿ broaden academic horizons
¿ globalize one's world view
¿ expand career opportunities
¿ advance cross-cultural and problem-solving skills
¿ gain confidence in oneself personally and professionally

Study in Austria and Germany--Students interested in a foreign study experience may spend a semester or a full year in Berlin (Humboldt University), Vienna (Center for Central European Studies), or Freiburg (University of Freiburg) through the Institute of European Studies. Language prerequisites vary for individual programs. Internships are available in all of them. Through the Learning Abroad Center, students may also participate in bilateral exchanges to Austria and Karl Franzens University in Graz and with the University of Salzburg.

Admission Requirements

For information about University of Minnesota admission requirements, visit the   Office of Admissions Web site.

General Requirements

Program Requirements

Students are required to take 2 semester(s) of any second language.

No grades below C- are allowed. A minimum GPA of 2.00 is required in the major to graduate. The GPA includes all, and only, University of Minnesota coursework. Grades of "F" are included in GPA calculation until they are replaced.

In addition to the requirements for the major, students are encouraged to complete at least one year of instruction in another foreign language.