Photo credit: Anna Logue
I decided to study at the University of Mannheim because it was recommended to me by friends. I also like its international focus. I wanted to study a program that had interesting content and good career prospects. The combination of German Studies and Media and Communication Studies gives me exactly what I was looking for. I particularly liked that the lectures and seminars address the latest social or political topics or occurrences.
Bettina Stolz, graduate of the bachelor's program in German Studies: Language, Literature, Media / Photo credit: Elisa Berdica
Program facts and information
Degree: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
Standard period of study: 6 semesters (3 years)
ECTS credits: at least 180
Language of instruction: German, English
Language requirements: If you do not hold German citizenship or have a German university entrance qualification (Abitur or equivalent qualification), you must submit proof of proficiency in German on C1 level.
Program start: Fall semester (September)
Academic calendarSchool: School of Humanities
Semester fee: €194.30 (further information)
Tuition fees for international students from non-EU countries: €1,500
Tuition fees for a second degree: €650Program overview
The bachelor's program in German Studies: Language, Literature, Media combines the study of the German language, i.e. Linguistics and Literary Studies, with Media and Communication Studies and Cultural Studies.
In modules on Literary Studies, you will look at different genres, theories, and the history of literature. Of course, you will also read a lot of books from the likes of Friedrich Schiller, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Heinrich von Kleist, Franz Kafka, Feridun Zaimoglu, and Juli Zeh. Linguistics modules teach students about the origins and functions of language, and linguistic features and structures.
Modules in Media and Communication Studies focus on the scientific analysis of communication and media. You will investigate how the Internet, certain news formats, films and series influence and change social systems and society.
Why study German Studies at the University of Mannheim?
The Humanities at the University of Mannheim have an excellent reputation. German studies achieves top positions in the last CHE university ranking. In addition, the internationally renowned Institut für Deutsche Sprache (IDS) works closely with the Department of German Studies, and supports students with starting their research.
With 450 partner universities, and students from 100 countries, Mannheim is one of the most international universities in the country, and provides students with an inspiring learning environment that facilitates excellent teaching and research.
Career opportunities
Required interests and skills
- enjoy reading – from the Nibelungenlied and Goethe to Helene Hegemann – and read frequently,
- be very proficient in German and have good English language skills,
- not be put off by complex texts, theories, and methods,
- be interested in language and phenomena such as dialects or language used in instant messaging,
- be capable of critical thinking and like discussing topics,
- enjoy writing academic texts,
- like giving presentations.
Program structure
Module catalog
You can find further details on how the program is structured in the module catalog (only available in German).Studying abroad
The University of Mannheim is part of a global network. The School of Humanities is partners with over 150 universities worldwide, and, in collaboration with the International Office, can help you plan a period of study abroad. We recommend that students go abroad during the fourth or fifth subject-specific semester, but it is possible to make individual arrangements. Studying abroad is optional, and is encouraged by the School.Internships
A six-week internship in Germany or abroad is integrated into the program of study. Our program managers can help you to find an internship, create your application documents, and advise you on the recognition of internships.Further study
The following degree programs are (mainly) taught in German:
Master’s program in Intercultural German Studies (M.A.)
Master’s program in Literature, Media and Culture in the Modern Era (M.A.)
Application and selection
At the University of Mannheim, a traditional numerus clausus (within the meaning of a minimum grade required for admission) does not exist. In our selection process, we take the following criteria into account:
- the grade average achieved in your university entrance qualification,
- the grade achieved in German,
- relevant work experience and extracurricular activities.
German language proficiency
If you are not a German citizen or do not have a German university entrance qualification (Abitur or equivalent school leaving certificate), you must prove German language proficiency at C1 level.Selection statutes
Under “Application and selection” we have compiled the most important selection criteria of the program for you. For more detailed explanations of the selection process and the legally binding requirements of the degree program, please refer to the selection statutes.Application
- The application deadline for our bachelor's programs for the fall semesters starts on 1 June and ends on 15 July.
The University of Mannheim is the most popular university in Germany
In the students' vote on the Studycheck.de platform, the University of Mannheim has reached the top position among all universities. This makes the University of Mannheim the most popular university in Germany.
read more about the award (in German)