Programs

German Studies Major

This is a transnational and interdisciplinary major that encompasses the various German-speaking regions of central Europe and offers an intellectually diverse program—covering literature, history, politics, the arts, philosophy, and business. Currently Germany is a leading trade partner and ally of the U.S. and is a linchpin in the European Community. The cultural and linguistic traditions of Austria and Switzerland enrich the field of German Studies.

Acquiring proficiency in the German language is an integral part of German Studies at all levels.

German Studies majors are strongly encouraged to complete a pre-approved study, internship, or work experience of one to two semesters in a German-speaking country, or in an approved immersion program. NMUs exchange partner in Germany, Oldenburg University, offers excellent support services and an affordable cost. Elective courses toward the major may be taken abroad and may substitute for the area electives with departmental approval.

Students majoring in German studies must earn a minimum grade of “C” in every language course. 

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For course description, click on the course.

• Total Credits Required for Degree

  120
• General Education

  30-40

• Required Courses in Major

  32
• German Studies Core

  16
• GR 301 Advanced German I [EFFC]

  4
• GR 302 Advanced German II

  4
• GR 310 Introduction to German Civilization and Culture [PERS] or

  4
•      GR 311 Central European Culture and Civilization (4 cr.) [PERS]
• GR 320 Great Works in German Literature [HUME]

  4
• LG 499 Graduation Assessment for Language Majors

  0
• German Studies Electives

  16
• Choose from the following list:
• At least 8 credits must be at the 300 level or above.
•      EN 313 Introduction to Linguistic Theory (4 cr.)
•      GR 495 Special Topics in German (1-4 cr.)
•      GR 495X Special Topics in German (Study Abroad) (1-4 cr.)
•      GR 496X Study Abroad: Special Topics (1-4 cr.)
•      GR 498 Directed Study in German (1-4 cr.)
•      HON 201 Origins of Western Values - Medieval to Modern (4 cr.) [PERS]
•      HS 304 The Middle Ages (4 cr.)
•      HS 307 Themes in Early Modern Europe * (4 cr.)
•      HS 308 Themes in Modern Europe * (4 cr.)
•      HS 316 The Holocaust * (4 cr.)
•      IP 490 International Studies Seminar (4 cr.)
•      LG 250 Overview of Linguistics for Language Educators (2 cr.)
•      LG 317 World Studies through Literature in Translation (4 cr.) [PERS] (When a German Topic)
•      PL 210 History of Modern Philosophy (4 cr.)
•      PL 310 Social and Political Philosophy (4 cr.) [PERS]
•      PL 330 Existentialism (4 cr.) [INTT]
•      PL 370 Theory of Knowledge: Classical and Contemporary (4 cr.)
•      PS 203 Comparative Government and Politics (4 cr.)
•      PS 206 International Relations (4 cr.)

*Prerequisites: 100 or 200 level history course.

This major does not require a minor.