Command a language spoken by millions.
Major in German at the University of Mary Washington, and you’ll master composition and conversation, study German culture, economics, and architecture, and explore the literatures of Austria and Germany. Spend a summer or semester studying in Erfurt, Germany, and consider a minor in business German to prepare for an international career in industry, tourism or diplomacy.
Degree Awarded
Students majoring in German who complete all requirements earn the degree of Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in modern foreign languages.
Areas of Study
UMW offers beginning and intermediate German; introduction to German literature; business German; German civilization; advanced German literature courses; advanced grammar, conversation, and composition; seminars in German; individual studies; and for-credit internships.
Career Opportunities
UMW German graduates find career opportunities in interpreting, translating, research, social services, education, and international business.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the demand for interpreters and translators will increase by more than 46 percent between 2012 and 2022, making this field one of the fastest-growing occupations.
Internships
Internships offer hands-on experience and course credit to juniors and seniors. Recent UMW German students have had internships with the U.S. State Department, the FBI, and Volkswagen USA. There also are internship opportunities abroad.
Students who have at least a 3.5 grade-point average in the French major and a 3.0 GPA overall by the beginning of senior year can apply to complete a research-based thesis for departmental honors. A three-member committee will hear the thesis defense and determine whether honors will be awarded.
An undergraduate research grant, awarded through the Office of Academic Affairs, may be available for travel and other thesis-related expenses.
Major Requirements
Students complete eight courses on the advanced level, including two required courses in writing and speaking; one required course in literature and culture; and five electives in advanced literature, culture, or language.
Minor Requirements
The German minor requires 26 credits including core classes and three upper-level electives.
The minor in business German also requires 26 credits including a sequence of business or economics courses.
Eligible students can apply for scholarships to defray costs of faculty-led travel programs. Multiple awards are made each semester. Several scholarships also are available to help students spend a semester studying abroad.