German Studies in Cultural Comparison

The Master’s degree program in German Studies in Cultural Comparison at Heidelberg University offers an in-depth exploration of German language, literature, and culture in a comparative context. This interdisciplinary program is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of German cultural developments and their interactions with other European and global cultures. The curriculum combines linguistic proficiency with critical analysis of cultural phenomena, enabling students to assess historical and contemporary issues through a multidisciplinary lens. Students will engage with a diverse range of courses covering German literary traditions, cultural history, media studies, and comparative approaches to cultural studies. The program emphasizes research skills, linguistic excellence, and theoretical frameworks necessary for understanding cultural dynamics in a globalized world. As Heidelberg University boasts a rich academic tradition and vibrant academic community, students benefit from a stimulating environment that fosters critical thinking, intercultural dialogue, and scholarly expertise. The program prepares graduates for careers in academia, publishing, cultural institutions, international organizations, and media, where a nuanced understanding of cultural comparisons in the German context is valuable. International students are welcomed and encouraged to participate in research projects, seminars, and conferences that broaden their academic and professional horizons. Overall, the Master’s in German Studies in Cultural Comparison aims to cultivate highly skilled specialists who can critically analyze cultural phenomena, communicate effectively in German and English, and contribute to intercultural understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.

Educational organisation

Students choose to specialise either in linguistics or literature. It is possible to study the Master's programme part-time.

Course objectives

Depending on which profile is chosen, the Master's programme prepares students for careers at universities, in teaching German as a Foreign Language or as cultural mediators in cultural centres or international businesses.

Language requirements

Applicants must provide proof of their German and English skills.
German: TestDaF 5454 or DSH 78% or equivalent
English: IELTS, TOEFL (B1 equivalent)

Required DSH / TestDaF

Yes

Academic requirements

Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in modern languages

Enrolment fees

Approx. 150 EUR enrolment fees per semester
Fees do not include a semester ticket.

The Anglo-German Studies program at Heidelberg University offers students an in-depth exploration of the cultural, literary, and historical connections between Germany and the English-speaking world. The program aims to cultivate a comprehensive understanding of both cultures through interdisciplinary coursework, research opportunities, and intercultural exchange. Students engaged in this program study a variety of subjects including German language and literature, Anglo-American cultural studies, comparative literature, history, and European studies. The curriculum is designed to develop proficiency in both German and English languages, enabling students to critically analyze texts, cultural phenomena, and societal developments within a comparative framework.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities to participate in exchange semesters at partner institutions, attend international conferences, and undertake research projects that deepen their understanding of cross-cultural interaction. Faculty members are renowned experts in their fields, offering mentorship and scholarly guidance. The program emphasizes intercultural competence, preparing graduates for careers in international diplomacy, global business, cultural management, translation, and academic research. Heidelberg University also provides resources such as language laboratories, libraries with extensive collections, and events fostering intercultural dialogue. Graduates of the program are equipped not only with bilingual language skills but also with a nuanced awareness of cultural differences and similarities, making them highly competitive in globalized environments. Overall, the Anglo-German Studies in Cultural Comparison combines rigorous academic training with practical experience in intercultural communication, aiming to produce graduates capable of understanding and analyzing the complex interactions between British and German cultures within historical and contemporary contexts.