Bachelor's Program in German Studies: Language, Literature, Media

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 like that the lectures and seminars address the latest social or political topics or occurrences.

Bettina Kohler, student of B.A. 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: approx. 180

Language of instruction: German

Language requirements: This program requires proof of proficiency in German on C1 level.

Program start: Fall semester (September)
Academic Calendar

School: School of Humanities

Semester fee: €174.90 (more)
Tuition fees for international students from non-EU countries: €1,500
Tuition fees for a second degree: €650

Read more about the bachelor’s program in German Studies: Language, Literature, Media (only available in German)
Program 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.

During 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.

This fundamental knowledge is complemented by several practice-oriented seminars on editing, publishing and public relations.
Why study German Studies at the University of Mannheim?

The Humanities at the University of Mannheim have an excellent reputation. In the CHE university ranking, German Studies was number one in two categories. 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.

Students at the School of Humanities value the ability to work in small groups. Academic advisors, program managers, and teachers are happy to answer your questions on the program.
Career opportunities

A degree in German Studies opens up a lot of options. Graduates can become journalists, editors, or artists, or work in areas such as public relations, publishing, and social media.
Required interests and skills
Students of German Studies should:
- 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

Studying abroad
The University of Mannheim is part of a global network. The School of Humanities is partners with over 140 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.

Sample course schedule
This is how your course schedule for the first semester could look.
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.)

Master’s program in Language and Communication (M.A.)
Application and selection
We take the following criteria into account in our selection process:
- the grade average achieved in your university entrance qualification,
- the grade achieved in German,
- relevant work experience and extracurricular activities.
- if you do not hold German citizenship or do not have a German university entrance qualifications (e.g. Abitur or equivalent school leaving certificate), you must submit proof that your German language proficiency is equivalent to level C1.
Selection statutes
You can find the exact requirements for the program in the selection statutes, which are only available in German.

Application
You can apply between May 15 and July 15.

Apply

Aptitude test
Applicants are required to take an aptitude test, such as What shall I study? or the SIT orientation test, which are both only available in German. They must then submit proof that they have completed the test with their application.

Admission to an advanced semester
If you want to apply for an advanced semester, please contact Ms. Dörr in the Admissions Office.

Learn more about the school of humanities.

Contact

Dr. Marilene Burkard

Studiengangsmanagement B.A. und B.A. Kultur und Wirtschaft

University of Mannheim
School of Humanities
Kaiserring 14-16 – Room 612 (6th floor)
68161 Mannheim

Phone: +49 621 181-3109
E-mail: bakuwi(at)uni-mannheim.de
Web: www.phil.uni-mannheim.de/en/academics/bachelorstudiengaenge

Consultation hour(s):
Tue and Wed 10 a.m.–noon (drop–in office hours; lecture period)

Florian Dorner, M.A.

Studiengangsmanagement B.A. und B.A. Kultur und Wirtschaft

University of Mannheim
School of Humanities
Kaiserring 14–16 – Room 612 (6th floor)
68161 Mannheim

Phone: +49 621 181-3928
E-mail: bakuwi(at)uni-mannheim.de
Web: www.phil.uni-mannheim.de/en/academics

Consultation hour(s):
Tue and Wed 10 a.m.–noon (without previous notice); during the semester break: Tue 10 a.m.–noon, Achtung: Sprechstundenausfall am 13. November.

Admissions Office

University of Mannheim
L 1, 1 – Room 157, 158
68161 Mannheim

E-mail: bewerbung(at)uni-mannheim.de

Program facts and information

Program overview

Why study German Studies at the University of Mannheim?

Career opportunities

Required interests and skills

Program structure

Further study

Application and selection

Dr. Marilene Burkard

Florian Dorner, M.A.

Admissions Office