German Language and Literature Boston University

Overview

Graduates of the German Language and Literature program offered by Boston University are prepared to communicate effectively in German and English, to function well in cross-cultural contexts, and to contribute meaningfully to addressing today’s global challenges. This flexible 11-course program works well as a second major alongside a major such as History, IR, European Studies, or Engineering. Students are encouraged to study abroad at BU’s programs in Dresden.

Like all World Languages & Literatures (WLL) majors, German Language & Literature majors begin with CAS XL 100 Leaving Home: Explorations in World Literature, a team-taught course in which students meet the WLL faculty through guest lectures and get oriented in the rich diversity of the world’s literary traditions. They start German language study as early as possible and complete at least three language courses above the fourth semester. A course taught in English translation, Masterpieces of German Literature (CAS LG 250), introduces students to major texts and can be taken early in the student’s program. Four additional courses in German language, literature, linguistics, and/or culture provide greater depth in areas of special interest to the student. One WLL elective focused on a language, literature, or culture other than German helps regional, global and/or historical comparison. Students wishing to explore more of WLL’s course offerings beyond German may substitute an additional elective for one of the two courses numbered CAS LG 251–289, 315, 387, or 400 or higher (German literature, film, linguistics, culture, or advanced language). Seniors majoring in WLL come back together in CAS XL 479, the senior capstone seminar. Students use this course to produce a substantial project in their major and share their work with other WLL seniors working in other languages. The course provides students with structure and research guidance for developing and discussing their projects, while meetings with a faculty language mentor hone students’ advanced language skills as applied to the area of their research. Student presentations build oral communication skills and the ability to describe one’s work to others. Possible final projects could include a research paper on literature, film, or popular culture; an annotated translation or work of subtitling; a video essay; or a digital humanities project. Students producing excellent capstone projects will be encouraged to develop them into senior honors work.

Learning Outcomes

• Advanced knowledge of major themes and genres in German literature and culture in their historical contexts, including links to other European and world literary traditions.

• Critical thinking, communication, and writing skills within areas of content and cultural knowledge.

• Proficiency in speaking, reading, writing, and listening comprehension in German at or above a level (ACTFL intermediate-high) where these skills can be used for communication in everyday and academic situations.