Overview

German

Introduction

German is spoken by 130 million people all over the world. Through its authors, philosophers, composers, painters, and scientists, German-speaking Europe has helped shaped history for the past 800 years.

There are lots of opportunities to use this language professionally, as Germany has the 4th largest economy in the world and is a key player in international trade and relations.

German

What will my study involve?

Become an expert in German language, as well as in the history and culture of German-speaking countries, including Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, and Liechtenstein.
Access to exchange programmes with the University of Konstanz and the University of Freiburg.
UC hosts the National Centre for Research on Europe (NCRE), the only research centre for the study of Europe and the EU in Aotearoa.
You can study German within a range of different bachelor’s degrees, or you can also add a certificate or diploma in German language alongside your other studies.

German

Courses

See all undergraduate German courses

Major and Minor students in German will start with the language course appropriate to their German language proficiency level.

The 100-level language course GRMN151 Elementary German Language A is for beginners or those with very little previous experience in German language.

Those with prior knowledge of the German language may be given direct entry to higher level courses by showing evidence of previous study or sitting a placement test.

Contact german@canterbury.ac.nz if you would like to know more.

German major

The German major in the Bachelor of Arts consists of both language and culture courses of at least 135 points including at least 105 of those points above 100-level. The following courses are required:

200-level

One 200-level EURA course

300-level

Two 300-level GRMN courses

Courses from European and European Union Studies can also be credited towards the major, with approval from the Programme Coordinator.

German minor

For the minor in the Bachelor of Arts, Commerce, Digital Screen, Health, Product Design, Science, Social and Environmental Sustainability, Sport, or Youth and Community Leadership, complete the following courses:

GRMN152 Elementary German Language B (or a higher-level language course based on previous study or sitting a placement test)
60 points in 100 to 300-level GRMN courses, with at least 45 points above 100-level

Courses from European and European Union Studies can also be credited towards the minor, with approval from the Programme Coordinator.

German

Career opportunities

Knowing languages is highly sought after — it helps in cross-cultural relationship building, and helps you to pursue your career interests around the world. German language in particular is vital to international areas such as science, engineering, business, history, and tourism.

Career pathways could include: