Course overview
You will normally divide your time equally between German and philosophy, taking core modules in German Language plus further optional modules from a wide range covering German Literature, politics, history, media and linguistics. This course offers you the opportunity to take up German from scratch and combine it with the study of philosophy. An intensive beginners' course in German will enable you to capitalise on your proven language-learning ability and develop German to degree level.
In philosophy you will take core modules in philosophical problems and optional modules in areas of philosophy that interest you.
Year one
In German, you will begin a structured course in the language to take you from beginners to advanced level and are also introduced to aspects of German culture and history. In philosophy, you will be introduced to the subject through a series of core modules in central philosophical problems and you will also be able to choose optional modules.
Year two
Your German language studies will be consolidated to prepare you for the year abroad. In German, you will take modules in literature and history and may opt to take modules in politics, linguistics, media and film. In philosophy, there are further core modules in central areas and a wide variety of optional modules that allow you to develop and broaden your philosophical skills and knowledge.
Year three
Spent in Germany or Austria as a language assistant in a school, on an approved course of study or on a work placement.
Year four
You will develop your command of German to a high level and use it in increasingly sophisticated contexts. You will also study optional modules drawn from the areas of literature, history, politics, society, media and linguistics. In German, you may also choose to write a dissertation. In philosophy, there will be free choice from a wide variety of more advanced modules, including the opportunity to write a dissertation on a topic of your own choosing.
More information
See also the Department of Philosophy.
Entry requirements
A levels: ABB, including evidence of language-learning ability.
English language requirements
IELTS 7.0 (no less than 6.0 in any element)
TOEFL iBT 100 (no less that 21 in listening and writing, 22 in reading and 23 in speaking)
Alternative requirements
For details please see the alternative qualifications page
Modules
The modules we offer are inspired by the research interests of our staff and as a result, may change from year to year. The following list is therefore subject to change but should give you a flavour of the modules we offer.
Typical year-one modules
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Self, Mind and Body
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Locke: Appearance and Reality
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Beginners' German Language
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Elementary Logic
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Reasoning and Argument: An Introduction to Philosophical Method
Typical year-two modules
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The Nature of Meaning
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German Language
Typical year-three modules
Year spent abroad. Please see the Department of German Studies Year Abroad page.
Typical year-four modules
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German Essay and Oral
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Translation from German
Please see optional modules (below) or contact the Department of German Studies for more information.
Typical optional modules
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Sex, Gender and Society in Modern Germany
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Reading German Literature I
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Reasons for Action
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Issues in Feminist Philosophy
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Investigating the German Language
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The New German Cinema
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Normative Ethics
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History of Philosophy
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Culture and Society in the Weimar Republic
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Philosophy of Mind
Skills and careers
You will graduate with a broad understanding of philosophical theories and concepts and a specialist knowledge of the areas you have chosen to focus on. You will have the ability to think and study independently, to communicate effectively, and to develop and sustain a reasoned argument. You will have achieved a high level of expertise in written and spoken German and your international experience will demonstrate to employers that you are adaptable and independent.