Overview

The German major at Iowa State University provides students with a robust foundation in the language, literature, and cultural history of German-speaking nations. This undergraduate programme is designed to foster deep analytical skills through the study of diverse texts, documents, and cultural objects. Students gain the necessary tools to engage with one of the world’s most influential cultures in both historical and modern contexts.

The curriculum is structured to be highly versatile, allowing for successful integration with other academic disciplines. Many students choose to combine their linguistic studies with fields such as engineering, business, design, or education to enhance their professional prospects. This interdisciplinary approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of a globalised workforce.

Why German at Iowa State University?

Students benefit from a supportive academic environment featuring dedicated faculty and specialised resources like the Language Studies Resource Center (LSRC). The university offers unique opportunities for innovation through the Start Something LAS Academy, which encourages entrepreneurship and creative thinking within the liberal arts framework.

The department maintains strong connections to international experiences, including the Berlin Tech(no) Cultures summer study abroad programme. These initiatives allow students to immerse themselves in the culture while earning academic credit. Additionally, active student organisations like the German Club provide a vibrant community for peer engagement and cultural exchange outside the classroom.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 15293 per semester
National fee: USD 14289 per semester
Local fee: USD 4765 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires at least 30 credits beyond the intermediate level, focusing on advanced linguistic and cultural competency. Modules may include:

German
Germany Today
Written Communication
Oral Communication
Cultural Studies
Literature

Careers with German

Graduates of this programme are equipped for diverse professional paths where cross-cultural communication and linguistic proficiency are essential. The ability to interpret complex cultural data makes graduates valuable in international business, government service, and education. Many students leverage their language skills to secure roles in multinational corporations, particularly when paired with a second major.

The department provides dedicated support for finding internships in German-speaking countries, helping students bridge the gap between academic study and professional practice. These experiences often lead to careers in translation, international relations, and global trade, where deep knowledge of German culture provides a significant competitive advantage.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

German Studies in English
The Holocaust in Text, Image, and Memory
German Film and Media Studies
German for Global Professionals
Composition
German Literature and Culture

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , International

More details

Iowa State operates on rolling admission. We strongly recommend that you apply at least six to eight weeks in advance.

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Ames, United States

Disciplines

German and Scandinavian studies View 313 other Bachelors in German and Scandinavian studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

ACT composite (or converted SAT) score x 3+

Cumulative GPA x 30

Number of years of high school core courses x 5

In addition to the high school course requirements listed above, students applying for admission to the College of Engineering must complete two years of a single foreign language. Students applying for admission to the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences must complete a third year of social studies and two years of a single foreign language.
General Equivalency Diploma (GED) applicants are welcome to enroll at Iowa State University. The specific GED score requirements for admission depend upon when the GED test was taken.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

30586 USD / year

≈ 30586 USD / year
Out-of-State

28578 USD / year

≈ 28578 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

9530 USD / year

≈ 9530 USD / year

Living costs

Ames

United States

1158 - 1797 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for German.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Ames

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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