BA German Studies (part-time)
Description:
The unification of East and West Germany in 1990 has had a profound effect on German Studies over the last sixteen years. Whilst a high degree of expertise in the German language remains at the heart of most degree programmes in German, much greater emphasis is now placed upon the study of social and political issues and how these bear on the development of the new Germany.
What can I gain from a degree in German?
There is a great shortage of well-qualified linguists, and graduates in German are especially highly sought after. In recent years statistics have shown that only students with degrees in medicine, dentistry or veterinary science have a better chance of finding employment. Many of our graduates go on to put their linguistic skills to practical use by working for companies with a German connection. However, prospects extend well beyond translating and interpreting. Recent Reading graduates have been recruited by employers such as Sony Europe, the Civil Service and Price Waterhouse, all of whom clearly value the technical and intellectual training of a degree in Modern Languages.
The Department
In the most recent national Teaching Quality Assessment exercise, we were awarded the highest possible score for student support and guidance and student progression and achievement. We have a range of different approaches represented in the department, including the study of literature, history, cinema and applied linguistics.
When can I study?
Our degree is available by daytime study only. Students will be expected to spend the equivalent of two months studying in a German-speaking country at some time during their programme. If your personal circumstances would make this difficult, other options may be available on consultation with the department.
What will I study?
We offer one single subject degree on a part-time basis: BA German. This subject can also be combined with many other subjects offered in the Faculty of Arts and Humanities on a part-time basis.
Level C modules will give you a strong foundation in written and spoken German through a range of different language classes.
At the same time you will learn about the major cultural and political developments in Germany since 1945 through the study of films, literary texts and historical documents. Language levels offered are Advanced German Language (for students with A or AS level German or equivalent) or, through the Institution-wide Language Programme, Intermediate German Language (for students with GCSE German or equivalent) and Beginners German.
At Level I, you will develop your language skills further, and have the opportunity to study German History and Culture from 1750 to the present day. You can also choose optional modules such as: East German Cinema, Language Disputes in Public Discourse, Feminism, Gender and Class in the Nineteenth-Century, Romanticism.
At Level H, students take one language module: Translation into German and English, or German Structure and Composition. In addition, you may take two optional modules from a list currently including: Nineteenth-Century Vienna; Cinema of the Weimar Republic; and Migration in Germany.
How will I be taught and assessed?
Teaching is through lectures, seminars and intensive language work in small groups. Student assessment is based on a mixture of course work and timed examination. There are facilities for self-study in the University Language Centre.
Entry requirements
We consider each application on its own merits. Our standard entry requirement is either a grade 'C' or above in A level German, or a Grade 'A*' in GCSE German. Students entering the Beginners German course will normally have an A level in another modern European Language.
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