Course overview
You will normally divide your time equally between German and Politics, taking core modules in both subjects along with options from a wide range of modules which will allow you to tailor your degree to your own interest. This course offers a wide choice of modules in German language, literature, linguistics, history, politics, culture and film. In politics, you will take a range of options from three core areas: political theory, comparative politics and international relations.
Year one
In addition to core German language, you will take modules in literature, history, politics and society and may opt for modules in linguistics. Dutch is also normally available. In Politics, you will take modules in contemporary political theory, comparative politics and international relations. You will learn to apply and gain a thorough understanding of the history of political ideas.
Year two
Your German language skills will be consolidated to prepare you for the year abroad. In German, you will take modules in literature, history, politics and society. There is additionally a wide choice of modules in German culture, media and linguistics. In Politics, you will take a range of options from three designated 'core' areas: political theory, comparative politics and international relations.
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 German literature, history, politics, society, media and linguistics. You may also choose to write a dissertation. In Politics, you may elect to research and write a dissertation under the supervision of a member of staff, and/or take options in political theory, comparative politics and international relations.
More information
See also the School of Politics & International Relations.
Entry requirements
A levels: ABB, including B in German at A level
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 qualifications
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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Power and the State
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Understanding Global Politics
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Foundations for Politics
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German Language I
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Political Ideas in Conflict
Typical year-two modules
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 Studies Dissertation
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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 or the School of Politics and International Relations for more information.
Typical optional modules
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Hitler and the Third Reich
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Introduction to Literary Translation
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Approaches to Political Studies
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Culture and Society in the Weimar Republic
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Jewish Intellectuals in Germany 1830-1940
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German Life Writing
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Germany in the international context since 1945
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Media, Parties and Politics in Modern Germany
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New German Cinema
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Epic Theatre
Skills and careers
You will develop a broad understanding of political theories and ideas, and the ability to think independently and to develop a reasoned argument. You will have acquired a high level of expertise in spoken and written German, and your international experience will demonstrate to employers that you are independent, adaptable and able to cope in challenging situations.
Average starting salary
The average starting salary for 2009/10 full-time graduates of the Department of German Studies was £18,600 and for graduates of the School of Politics and Internation Relations it was £20,391.89.*
*Average starting salary from known destinations of first-degree leavers who studied full-time, 2009/10.