Like the major in German Language and Literature, GCS offers training in interpretation and analysis useful for any career that involves formulating and solving problems. It is designed for students who wish to study the German-speaking countries and their cultures in the broadest context and encourages students to develop critical skills to analyze various aspects of culture and society, such as literature, film, art, architecture, political and social institutions.

Major Requirement: 50 credits

(1) 15 credits from the following: GERMAN  322, 323, and either 311 or 312.

(2) 15 credits from the following: GERMAN  411, 412, 421, 422, 423, or 495.

(3)  20 credits in 300-400 level German courses which may include (a) no more than 4 credits of GERMAN 395, 396; (b) no more than 5 credits of GERMAN 447 and (c) no more than 5 credits of 446.  However, credits from any two of the following 200-level courses may also be included: GERMAN 210, 220, 243, 293, 295.

In consultation with the advisor, the student may also count as part of the 20 credits in (3) above, credits earned in courses relevant to German culture offered in other departments such as history, political science, art history, comparative literature, international studies, or comparative history of ideas.

DOUBLE MAJORS

Many students majoring in other fields have found it advantageous to double major in either GLL or GCS in order to broaden their cultural perspectives.

STUDY ABROAD

Students may substitute courses taken in summer quarter or through  foreign study for some of the required courses listed above in consultation with the Undergraduate Advisor, Prof. E. Ames.

THE HONORS PROGRAM

Students majoring in GLL or GCS are invited to consider the option of joining the Departmental Honors Program by taking upper-division courses for ad hoc honors. Successful completion qualifies the student to graduate with Distinction in German, which will be noted on his/her transcript.

In order to qualify for the program

(Students must also have an overall GPA of at least 3.3 and a GPA in Germanics of 3.5 upon graduation.)

In order to apply, the student should e-mail the honors advisor, Prof. C. Barrack.

After acceptance into the program, students must take 20 of the credits required for the major as ad hoc honors credits by completing special projects.

STUDENT ASSISTANTS

Advanced students of German (especially prospective teachers) are encouraged to improve their conversational skills by serving as assistants (“proctors”) in GERMAN 150 or 250 (advanced), Conversational German Through Films, by signing up for GERMAN 395 or 396, respectively. Interested students are invited to e-mail Prof. C. Barrack.

UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH

Students have the option of conducting undergraduate research by enrolling in GERMAN 447.

WORK STUDY

Students have the option of participating in internships GERMAN 446.