Master's Programme in Languages – German

120 credits

German is, for historical reasons, an important language in Europe, with great cultural and economic importance. In the Master's programme in Languages specialising in German, you build up an understanding of language and literature as expressions of culture, and the connection between these and society. You will learn how the language looked during different periods, how it is used for different communicative purposes, how literature reflects cultural conditions, and how it is discussed.

Autumn 2023 Autumn 2023, Uppsala, 100%, On-campus, English

Autumn 2024 Autumn 2024, Uppsala, 100%, On-campus, English

Through the Master's programme in Languages, specialising in German, you will gain insights into the German language and literature, and understand a language culture on a deeper level. The language is not only a tool for communication. Via text and literature studies, you will get answers about people's use of language and their purposes for certain language use. This requires methods for analysing texts with a sensitivity to their linguistic structure and content.

You will encounter the linguistic variety and richness of communication and the creativity in it, especially when the media of communication changes character.

The programme gives you:

  • advanced insights into more theoretical aspects of linguistics and literary studies,
  • specialist knowledge in the subject, with experts in German linguistics and literature as teachers,
  • the possibility of exchange studies.

The programme's courses are based on specialist knowledge within the department. Teachers and researchers are experts in German linguistics and literature as well as in the didactics of cultural knowledge. All courses include smaller seminar-type meetings where the students are expected to discuss relevant topics. Active participation and commitment are important components of the program.

The programme prepares you for a career in the cultural sector or the academic world, where the next step is postgraduate studies. The programme is preparatory for research and after the first year of studies, you will be eligible to apply for doctoral studies.

The Master's programme in German is given by the Department of Modern Languages ​​at the Faculty of Linguistics in Uppsala. Uppsala University has Sweden's widest range of education in languages ​​and language-related subjects. The programme allows you to study practical courses that are designed especially for language students. Exchange studies are also a possibility, and it is encouraged as far as practicably possible.

Degree

The programme and specialisation leads to the degree of Master of Arts (120 credits) with German as the main field of study. After one year of study, it is possible to obtain a degree of Master of Arts (60 credits).

The programme includes courses and independent degree projects. During the first year, a series of work-oriented seminars and study visits are common to all students in the programme.

The first term includes two programme-based courses - a course in theory and method as well as a course with work-oriented lectures and study visits. In addition, courses are taught in German.

The second term is devoted to specialisation in German, 15 credits. The remaining 15 credits consist of a programme-wide methodology course (7.5 credits) and an elective course in German or another subject (7.5 credits).

The third and fourth terms are devoted to independent degree projects comprising 15 or 30 credits and elective courses in German or other subjects. Opportunities for internships comprising 7.5 credits or 15 credits are available.

The language of instruction is German and English.

Some of the courses may require compulsory attendance. Studies conducted at a foreign university may be included in the degree. During the first semester of the programme, a seminar series is held with invited guest lecturers representing different professions with language in focus. In a seminar, you present your ideas and discuss a course book, or other study material that you are required to read before the seminar, with your classmates, while the teacher usually only moderates the discussion. The aim is to develop critical thinking and collaborative skills. All the students are expected to be active participants in all forms of discussions.

In addition to the seminars, there are also visits to workplaces related to a future career. The seminars and the workplace visits are common for all the students in the programme and provide valuable insight into professional life and an opportunity to make personal contacts. There are opportunities for internships.

Some of the courses are taught as distance courses with online seminars.

A master's degree in German is a chance to develop intellectually, gain better analytical skills and sharpen your research skills so that you are well prepared for postgraduate studies or employment in any of a large number of fields outside of academia. You can find work both within the country and abroad. In Sweden, there are over 1,200 German-owned companies where your language and cultural skills are in demand. Conversely, there are approximately 1,800 Swedish-owned companies in Germany. You can work as an expert in language and communication at these companies or as an expert on international issues at universities and colleges.

German is spoken in Europe by about 100 million people, mainly in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, but there are German-speaking groups in other countries, for example in Romania, the Czech Republic and Russia. With a master's degree in German, you will therefore be well prepared for advanced tasks in large parts of Europe.

Career support

During your time as a student, UU Careers offers support and guidance. You have the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities and events that will prepare you for your future career. Learn more about UU Careers.

Contact

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