German Department Requirements

Information for Majors

Required Courses and Programs

The requirement for majors in German is eight full courses at the 300-level and above, including 311 or 312, 321, and 322. At least three of these courses must be at the 400-level. Also required is a period of study in Germany, Austria, or Switzerland. Those planning to continue the German major in graduate school may wish to take more credit hours in the department. Emphasis is placed upon both aural-oral skills and the reading and discussing of literary texts.

The Reading List

In addition to the required courses, every major is expected to be familiar with certain literary texts and works. For a list of these works and their authors (in chronological order), please see The Reading List.

Comprehensive Examinations and Departmental Honors

Those students who have performed with distinction may apply in their penultimate semester for departmental honors. If approved they will be requested to write a research paper in connection with a German 444 course (1-4 credits). Students demonstrating excellence in both this paper and their written comprehensives will be awarded departmental honors.

Information for Minors

A student wishing to increase proficiency in German and complement another field of study, such as economics, English, geology/forestry, history, political science, religion and the sciences. may minor in German by taking at least five courses at the 300-level and above. A period of study/work abroad is desirable. No comprehensive examination is required.