German
Whether you are an advanced German student or a complete beginner, our German degree offers you the opportunity to develop your language skills throughout your studies with us whilst also developing an in-depth knowledge of the German-speaking world. This includes studying, working, or teaching abroad.
In addition to the core programme that builds language and communication skills, you can choose from a range of specialist topics and modules that reflect our teaching and research expertise.
With module topics and content based on staff research interests (including literature, music, film, history, intellectual thought, German business, and translation), we offer a wide, multifaceted, and distinct programme for both single honours and joint honours students.
"Studying German and Translation in Cardiff has provided me with memories and skills I will forever value. I was given opportunities to live and work in Germany and undertake a wide range of modules looking closely at German history and culture."
Our teaching, led by a diverse community of experienced lecturers, includes a range of both formal and innovative assessments, from exams and essays, to vlogs, presentations, film reviews, and photo essays.
We pride ourselves on our extra-curricular activities including a regular film programme, our student magazine ‘Leckerbissen’, public readings by German language authors, exhibitions, and access to an enthusiastic German Society run by students who organise activities, socials, and trips throughout the year.
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Examples of editions of the student magazine, 'Leckerbissen'.
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St Michael in Fulda.
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Bockenheimer Warte Frankfurt am Main.
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Cologne train station.
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Walk with German Department Students in Cefn Onn Park.
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Walk with German Department students Cefn Onn Park.
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Frankfurt am Main.
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Berlin.
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Museums island U-Bahn station in Berlin.
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Saarschleife in Mettlach, Saarland.
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Saarbrücken Main Train Station.
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“Special” letterbox in Germany.
Our school is inclusive and friendly, regularly ranking high in the Complete University Guide. In the NSS Survey in 2022 we received 90% positive student feedback. We welcome students with A level or GSCE level German as well as those with no previous knowledge of German.
My name is Imogen and I studied a BA in German and Spanish. Overall, I really loved my learning at MLANG and am still really grateful for the authentic teaching I received. I really appreciated the cosy atmosphere within the school and the support and genuine care from teachers remained strong even after I finished my course. To also have the opportunity to have a year abroad was a factor that drew me to the course in the first place, but I don't think that I expected it to be as wonderful as it was! My degree was definitely a vocational choice, and I would say that my hopes and aspirations for language learning were met. I would say to anyone thinking about taking a language degree to go for it and get involved with your learning as much as you can!
We offer the following German courses both within our school and in conjunction with other schools from the University:
| Degree name | UCAS Code |
|---|---|
| Business Management with a European Language (German) (BSc) | N1R2 |
| English Language and German (BA) | QR32 |
| French and German (BA) | RR21 |
| German (BA) | R200 |
| German and English Literature (BA) | RQ23 |
| German and Italian (BA) | RR32 |
| German and Japanese (BA) | TR22 |
| German and Music (BA) | WR32 |
| German and Politics (BA) | LR22 |
| German and Portuguese (BA) | S89P |
| German and Spanish (BA) | RR24 |
German is also offered, along with a second language option, on:
| Degree name | UCAS Code |
|---|---|
| Modern Languages and Translation (BA) | 76D3 |
Why study German?
With over 100 million native speakers, German is one of the key European languages. Germany is the economic powerhouse of Europe, an important political player on the world stage and influential across many sectors and industries.
German speakers are therefore much sought after by employers in national and international business, as well as a wide range of fields including media, arts, teaching, translating, publishing, the Civil Service, marketing and finance.
What you will gain
A language is a skill for life. The Year Abroad offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in German either as a student or working in Germany, Austria or Switzerland. For many students, this is a highlight of the language studies programme at Cardiff.
By the end of a degree in German, you will have gained high proficiency in the language and developed valuable communications and intercultural skills that will prove an asset for your future life and career.
Our language partnerships
You will benefit from our close working relationship with cultural and governmental partners which helps to improve your study experience and our teaching expertise.
We are fortunate to be the only German Department in the UK that has an on-site presence of the Goethe-Institut, Germany’s national cultural institute, as well as being a certified Goethe Institut examination centre.
You may also apply for undergraduate Fellowships: the Stuttgart Fellowship for example, offers students the opportunity to participate in language programmes in Stuttgart, one of Cardiff’s twin cities.
We have also helped students successfully apply for summer fellowships with the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).
Our year abroad is extremely valuable, not only for developing competency in your chosen language, but also for your personal development.