German
Students selecting Beginners’ German must have obtained at least a grade HC1 in another language in the Leaving Certificate Examination, or equivalent. Students selecting Non-Beginners’ German must have achieved at least a grade HC3 in German.
Why Study German?
German is spoken by the highest number of people in the European Union. Studying German opens the gate to the intellectual, economic and cultural riches of Central Europe (Germany, Austria, Switzerland). German is the language of “international icons” in, for example, the areas of philosophy (Marx), literature (Goethe, Kafka), music (Mozart, Bach, Beethoven) film (Fassbinder), theatre (Brecht), psychology (Freud), science (Einstein), religion (Luther) – to name just a few.
While studying German with the aim of using it professionally later on, you will become aware of how important it is to be knowledgeable about the language within the cultural and historical contexts of the German-speaking countries. The size of the Department allows for staff and students to get to know each other quickly, and many classes are small enough to allow for the intensive exchange of ideas. Students also enjoy a high level of feedback on all work submitted.
Overview
In First Year, intensive language work in small groups will give you an opportunity to consolidate and deepen your knowledge of German grammar and vocabulary and to become more confident in speaking German. The literature and culture course is designed to acquaint you with a series of literary, artistic and filmic examples of modern German culture representing and fueling cultural developments in Europe and worldwide.
In Second and Final Years, practical language work continues to play a major part in the form of translation, grammar, discussion and essay writing on topics which will focus your attention on life and society in German-speaking countries and on contrasts and similarities between your environment and the German, Austrian or German-Swiss environment, between your way of thinking and communicating and theirs.
For complete module descriptions see the Book of Modules for German
Postgraduate Opportunities in UCC
One Year Taught MA in German Studies; MPhil (Research), PhD (Research); HDip in Arts (German)
For further information see: www.ucc.ie/german/postgraduatestudies
Study Placement
Students who choose the Language and Cultural Studies or European Studies degree programme will spend Third Year studying at a university in Germany.
