German Studies Language Culture and History

The German Studies Language, Culture, and History programme at University College London offers students a comprehensive and multidisciplinary exploration of Germany’s rich linguistic, cultural, and historical heritage. Designed for those with a keen interest in understanding the complex societal, literary, and historical developments of German-speaking countries, this programme provides an in-depth academic experience that combines language proficiency with cultural studies and historical analysis. Students will engage with a diverse range of courses covering German literature, philosophy, politics, contemporary culture, and historical periods from medieval times to the modern era. The curriculum emphasizes developing advanced language skills in German, enabling students to communicate effectively and critically in both written and spoken forms. Additionally, the programme encourages critical thinking and analytical skills through the study of key cultural and historical texts, encouraging students to examine the social and political contexts that have shaped Germany and its neighboring regions. The programme also offers opportunities for international exchange and research projects, allowing students to gain firsthand experience of German culture and society. Faculty members are experts in their fields and employ innovative teaching methods to inspire a deep understanding of the language and culture. Graduates from this programme are well-equipped for careers in academia, translation, international relations, journalism, cultural management, and other fields that require a nuanced understanding of German language and culture. Whether students are interested in pursuing further academic research or entering the professional world, the German Studies programme at UCL provides a robust foundation rooted in linguistic mastery, cultural awareness, and historical knowledge.

This MA enables further exploration of aspects of German literature, culture, history, politics, and social and political thought, within an explicitly thematic and theoretical framework. Students can specialise in particular areas of interest through the optional courses. Text-based language teaching is available for students wishing to develop their linguistic skills.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. The programme offers two pathways: taught and research.

Taught: one core module (30 credits), three optional modules (90 credits), and a dissertation (60 credits). Research: one core module (30 credits), two taught modules (60 credits), and a research dissertation (90 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma, one core module (30 credits), three optional modules (90 credits), full-time nine months or part-time two years, is offered.

A Postgraduate Certificate, one core module (30 credits), one optional module (30 credits), full-time three months, part-time six months, is offered.

Core module

• Language, Culture and History. This core module permits research into two areas of major contemporary interest; for example, topics explored during the current year include the following:
• Trauma
• Memory
• Visual Culture
• Queer(y)ing Sexuality

Optional modules

Students take a choice of optional modules on topics such as the following:

• Wolfram's Parzival
• Reading Modern Novels
• Theoretical Issues in History and Literature
• Staging the Past: German Historical Drama since 1770
• Writing and Rewriting Marchen and other Fantastic Tales
• Discussion and Essay in German: Intensive Essay Writing
• Translation from and into German: Advanced Translation
• Geman Literature and Psychology

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a 60-credit dissertation of 12,000 words, or a 90-credit dissertation of 18,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars and tutorials. Formal teaching occurs in the first two terms and the third term is devoted to revision sessions, examinations and detailed supervision of the dissertation project. Student performance is assessed through coursework essays, a dissertation, and unseen written examinations.

A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. A knowledge of German at least equivalent to UK A level standard is required.

Several funding options are possible for applicants including: Arts & Humanities Faculty Awards, UCL Scholarships for UK/EU & Overseas Students and the UCL German Alumni Scholarship.

For details of scholarships available to MA students in SELCS, please refer to the MA Scholarships webpage.

Scholarships relevant to this department are displayed below.

Jean Orr Scholarship

Value:

£7,000 (1 year)

Eligibility:

UK, EU, Overseas students

Criteria:

Based on academic merit

The University College London offers a comprehensive programme in German Studies, focusing on language, culture, and history. This programme provides students with an in-depth understanding of the German-speaking world, encompassing Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and other regions where German is spoken. Students gain proficiency in the German language, including conversational skills, reading, writing, and comprehension, alongside a solid foundation in the linguistic structures and vocabulary. The course also explores the rich cultural history of German-speaking countries, examining literature, philosophy, arts, and media, and how these reflect societal developments over time. Students study key historical events, political transformations, and social changes that have shaped the German-speaking world from medieval times to contemporary society.

Throughout the programme, students are encouraged to analyze cultural phenomena, engage critically with texts, and develop a nuanced understanding of issues such as identity, migration, and international relations within the context of German history and culture. The programme includes opportunities for study abroad, typically in Germany or Austria, allowing students to immerse themselves in the language and culture, enhancing their linguistic and intercultural skills. Practical training, including translation and interpreting skills, is often part of the curriculum, preparing students for careers in diplomacy, international business, education, or media.

The academic staff comprises experts in German language, literature, history, and cultural studies, who employ innovative teaching methods and research-led approaches. Students are expected to participate in seminars, workshops, and research projects, fostering independent learning and critical thinking. The programme culminates in a dissertation, allowing students to explore a specialized topic of their choosing in depth. Graduates of the German Studies programme at UCL are well-equipped for diverse careers, benefiting from a rigorous academic background, bilingual skills, and cultural fluency. The programme also emphasizes multidisciplinary perspectives, encouraging students to connect insights from various fields such as politics, economics, and media studies to better understand modern German-speaking societies.