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German

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Bachelor of Arts

A Bachelor of Arts (BA Hons) is a bachelor’s degree awarded for an undergraduate programme in the arts.

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Course overview

German is a major language of business, commerce and science, as well as the gateway to understanding a vibrant modern multicultural society with a rich and complex past and influential cultural output. We will help you not only to become highly proficient in writing, reading, speaking and listening to contemporary German, but also to understand the society, history, politics, linguistics, culture, literature and cinema of Germany, Switzerland and Austria.

Introduction

German graduates are some of the most highly sought after by employers and our German students are particularly well-placed to achieve their full potential in the workplace.

Whilst the perfection of language skills is at the heart of modern languages degrees in Liverpool, all our degrees demand a full intellectual engagement with a wide selection of areas in German studies. We research and teach German history, culture, literature and film from the 19th to 21st centuries, , linguistics and translation, and much more.

Our students participate in a number of extracurricular activities, including the regular writer-in-residence programme, the annual translation workshop organised across the Department and the Sauerkraut Cup inter-university football tournament run by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). They regularly win prestigious DAAD Summer School Grants.

 

What you'll learn

  • The ability to communicate appropriately, fluently and accurately in a number of personal and professional contexts in German
  • Linguistic principles required to analyse the German language
  • Detailed study of literary and other cultural texts and contexts to develop a broad knowledge and critical understanding of the cultures, communities and societies in which German is spoken
  • The ability to contexualise a broad range of materials in written and spoken German
  • Analytic engagement with texts
  • Oral and written presentation skills in both your native language and German

Teaching Excellence Framework 2023

We’re proud to announce we’ve been awarded a Gold rating for educational excellence.

Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Year one

In year one, you will study language modules as well as foundation modules, which will introduce you to a range of topics in German history, culture and linguistics. You will also take a ‘language awareness’ module which is designed to support your language learning by sensitising you to issues in language and linguistics.

Compulsory modules

INTRODUCTION TO GERMAN STUDIES I (GRMN127)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

The module aims to provide students with an introduction to central issues in German Studies.

INTRODUCTION TO GERMAN STUDIES II (GRMN128)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

The module introduces first year students to the study of German literature (short stories and prose) and the study of German film.

LANGUAGE AWARENESS (MODL105)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

The module is an introduction to linguistics, focusing on issues in theoretical and applied linguistics which are relevant for language learners. It aims to equip students with a better awareness of and explicit knowledge about language and language learning. The meta-awareness thus gained will assist in hypothesis testing and rule formation essential to the learning of language.

TEXTS AND CONTEXT IN GERMAN (GRMN125)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module offers students of German the opportunity to develop their reading knowledge of a German text (chosen from a short list) and their research and study skills, under the guidance of an academic supervisor. Students will produce a portfolio of work based on their chosen text, including: an academic bibliography, a comprehension exercise based on secondary literature, a commentary and an essay of 2000 words. These assessments guide students through the process of researching around a topic, and will allow them to receive feedback on each aspect of research. Students will work under the guidance of an academic supervisor, meeting them at regular intervals to agree a plan of reading, to discuss progress and to prepare their assessed work. Students will submit a plan of their essay to their supervisor for feedback before completing the assignment. The module is required for students German as a major or single subject, and can be taken by students studying German ab initio, for whom the commentary exercise will compare the English-language translation of the text and the German original. Together with the module GRMN230, this forms part of a research pathway designed to develop research skills in preparation for the MODL307 dissertation in final year.

INTERMEDIATE GERMAN 5, YEAR 1 (GRMN105)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This compulsory language module for all students aiming for a qualification in German is designed for students who have an A-level in German, but it is also open to other students as an additional subject or as part of the Erasmus scheme. It aims to provide students with good competence in reading, writing, listening, speaking and grammar through both lessons and independent project work. Students will be introduced to basic translation and interpreting skills during grammar lessons. Students may also benefit from extracurricular activities organised by a native speaker intern, the German Society and a conversation exchange organised through the Modern languages resource centre. It is also the preparation for the following year (GRMN207 and GRMN208).

INTERMEDIATE GERMAN 6, YEAR 1 (GRMN106)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module is designed for students with A-level German or equivalent who have successfully completed GRMN105. In this module, skills acquired in semester one will be improved and enhanced in semester two. Students will read a book in German and discuss it in an oral exam. Students will also improve their knowledge of German grammar further and have access to the languages lab for listening comprehension. The module also prepares students for GRMN207 and GRMN208 in second year. Students may benefit from extracurricular activities organised by a native speaker intern, the German Society and a conversation exchange organised through our Modern languages resource centre. Students will continue practicing their basic translating and interpreting skills.

BEGINNERS' GERMAN 1+2, YEAR 1 (GRMN112)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This is an accelerated beginners‘ module. You will study at A1 level in the Common European Framework of Reference (complete beginners).

ELEMENTARY GERMAN 3+4, YEAR 1 (GRMN134)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This is an accelerated elementary German module. You will study at A2 level in the Common European Framework of Reference.

Optional modules

INTRODUCTION TO FILM LANGUAGE (FILM101)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

The aim of the course is to give you grounding in analytical skills, an appreciation of the significance of film as a medium, and an ability to write about film in an accessible and well informed way for different audiences and different purposes.

Furthermore, the course will introduce you to the basic components of the audiovisual ‘language’ which film uses to communicate with its audience, and to the methods that you should use when analysing how any one film uses this language. We will look at a wide variety of films selected for their particularly innovative or influential treatment of different aspects of this ‘language’.

THE GLOBAL HISTORY OF THE PRESENT (HIST114)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module explores contemporary issues and debates through considering global relationships in the past and how they have shaped the world in which we live. In light of the tremendous impact that modern imperialism and colonialism have had in shaping our world, the module focuses, in particular, on questions relating to race, empire and their legacies.

By exploring some of the ways in which historical investigation enriches urgent contemporary debates, the module aims to introduce students to a range of new ways of approaching the past, both in terms of subject matter and of new approaches to history, and to broaden their historical understanding of both western and non-western history (or what scholars refer to as the ‘Global North’ and ‘Global South’) and the myriad connections between them. In addition, therefore, to preparing students for the range of subject matter, geographical areas and approaches that they will be able to study in the second and third years of their History degree programme, this module also aims to make students better global citizens.

INTRODUCTION TO WORLD LITERATURE 1: PLACES AND LOCATIONS (WLIT101)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module will be compulsory for any student taking the BA in English with World Literature. It will be optional for students on English and English Literature, and for students taking Single Honours French (R120), German (R220), Italian (R300) and Hispanic Studies (RR45).

The module will introduce students to key concepts, theories, critics, and texts in the study of world literature through the lens of national literature(s) and translation, in order to provide a foundation for further study in the new programme.

Students will gain awareness of basic concepts of world literature from different national literary traditions and will learn how to apply them to a range of short literary works from a range of genres both within and beyond the module.

It will be delivered via lectures and seminars and assessed through two summative tasks:
– 80% coursework essay (2000 words)
– 20% discussion of a concept or key word (750 words).

Formative group work will support learning.

APPROACHES TO FILM (FILM102)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

The aim of this course is to introduce you to key theoretical and conceptual debates within Film Studies. It will develop your ability to apply these concepts to close readings of film texts and, in doing so, enhance your skills of critical analysis and independent thinking.

UNDERSTANDING MODERN EUROPE (HIST117)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module provides students with an introduction to modern continental European history.   It broadens their understanding by first considering factors of a general importance in the development of modern Europe, and then looking at particular events and countries.   In this way, students will be given a grasp both of broad themes in European history – such as demographics, political units, ideologies and social change – and of the specific way history unfolded in certain times and places.

Introduction to World Literature 2: Theory and Practice (ENGL120)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

This module will be compulsory for any student taking the BA in English with World Literature. It will be optional for students on English and English Literature, and for students taking Single Honours French, German, Hispanic Studies and Italian.

This module will follow on from Introduction to World Literature 1: From the National to the Global (Semester 1) by deepening students’ understanding of concepts and theories of world literature, and applying these to a range of longer literary texts across all major genres including the novel, poetry, drama, short story both originally in English and in English translation.

It will be delivered via a lecture and tutorial each week and assessed via 80% assessed summative coursework essay of 2500-3000 words and 20% creative-critical project (1000-1500 words).
Formative work will support the assessments.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Our curriculum

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

Course options

Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.

Language study

Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:

  • A dedicated languages degree
  • A language as a joint or major/ minor degree
  • Language modules (selected degrees)
  • Language classes alongside your studies

Read more about studying a language

Combine this subject

With a combined degree, you can study two subjects as part of the same degree programme.

  • Choose from 30 subjects and over 300 combinations
  • Choose joint or major minor subjects
  • Adjust the weight of your subjects at the end of your first year
  • Same number of credits as single honours students
  • Same classes as single honours students
  • Appeal to a wide range of employers

Explore combined degrees for Languages and Cultures courses

Your experience

Teaching is delivered by the Department of Languages, Cultures and Film, who bring together experts in a wide range of disciplines. A cutting edge research programme and award-winning teaching provide great opportunities to study all aspects of language and culture within a global context.

Virtual tour

Supporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

Careers and employability

Studying German goes beyond preparing students for a specific career, as the skills learned offer many possibilities. The Higher Education Statistics Agency consistently records high employment levels for language graduates, and the employability of graduates in German is excellent.

 

 

You will be equipped for graduate opportunities requiring competence in German, breadth of outlook, sympathetic understanding of other cultures, efficient selection and deployment of information from written sources, critical and evaluative judgements and excellent standards of literacy.

We have excellent links with a wide-range of German employers across all sectors: from financial to energy companies, manufacturers to retailers, including

  • Nespresso,
  • Framatome
  • AON risk solutions
  • KERN Global Language Services
  • Bosch
  • Zänker & Kollegen
  • AO.com
  • Ernst&Young
  • Aldi
  • Lidl.

These links are used frequently to help students find work placements on the Year Abroad or to secure graduate jobs.

82% of languages, cultures and film students are in work and/or further study 15 months after graduation.

Discover Uni, 2018-19.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year £9,250
Year in industry fee £1,850
Year abroad fee £1,385
International fees
Full-time place, per year £22,400
Fees are correct for the academic year 2024/25. Please note that the Year Abroad fee also applies to the Year in China.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support. Learn more about paying for your studies..

Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.

Additional study costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about additional study costs.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to provide tuition fee discounts and help with living expenses while at university.

Check out our Liverpool Bursary, worth up to £2,000 per year for eligible UK students. Or for international students, our Undergraduate Global Advancement Scholarship offers a tuition fee discount of up to £5,000 for eligible international students starting an undergraduate degree from September 2024.

Discover our full range of undergraduate scholarships and bursaries

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

We've set the country or region your qualifications are from as United Kingdom. Change it here

Your qualification Requirements

About our typical entry requirements

A levels

BBB including German.

Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements. For this course, the offer is BBC with B in the EPQ.

You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme.

T levels

T levels considered in a relevant subject.

Applicants should contact us by completing the enquiry form on our website to discuss specific requirements in the core components and the occupational specialism.

GCSE 4/C in English and 4/C in Mathematics
Subject requirements

Requirements for 100%:
A Level in German at grade B for entry to Advanced language; (no subject requirement for entry to Beginners’ Language)

Requirements for 50% with another subject outside Modern Languages and Cultures:
A Level in German at grade B for entry to Advanced language; (no subject requirement for entry to Beginners’ Language)

Requirements for 50%/50% with two languages:
A Level at Grade B in either of the two languages

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma

Applications encouraged. We evaluate each BTEC application on its merits, entry to Advanced language with an A level or equivalent in German (no subject requirement for entry to Beginners’ Language).

International Baccalaureate

30 including 6 at higher level in relevant language (no subject requirement for entry to Beginners’ Language), with no score less than 4

Irish Leaving Certificate H2, H2, H2, H3, H3, H3 (including H2 in relevant language for Advanced)
Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher

BBB in Advanced Highers including grade B in relevant language for entry to Advanced language; (no subject requirement for entry to Beginners’ language) combinations of Advanced Highers and Scottish Highers are welcome.

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Accepted with A Level grades BB including German (no subject requirement for entry to Beginners’ Language)
Access 30 level 3 credits at Distinction and 15 level 3 credits at Merit for entry to Beginners’ language
International qualifications

Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course.

English language requirements

You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.

We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.

International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.

English language qualification Requirements
IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5
TOEFL iBT 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19
Duolingo English Test 120 overall, with no component below 95
Pearson PTE Academic 61 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic 70 overall, with no skill below 60
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500 Grade C overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking and listening. Speaking and listening must be separately endorsed on the certificate.
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0990 Grade 4 overall, with Merit in speaking and listening
Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0510/0511 0510: Grade B overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0511: Grade B overall.
Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0993/0991 0993: Grade 6 overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0991: Grade 6 overall.
International Baccalaureate Grade 5 at Standard Level or grade 4 at Higher Level
Cambridge ESOL Level 2/3 Advanced 176 overall, with no paper below 162

PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH

Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?

The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.

Find out the length of Pre-Sessional English course you may require for this degree.

Pre-sessional English

If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-Sessional English course you require.

Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.

Your most recent IELTS score Pre-Sessional English course length On campus or online
6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 6 weeks On campus
5.5 overall, with no component below 5.5 10 weeks On campus and online options available
5.5 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 12 weeks On campus and online options available
5.5 overall, with no component below 4.5 20 weeks On campus
5.0 overall, with no component below 4.5 30 weeks On campus
4.5 overall, with no more than one component below 4.5, and no component below 4.0 40 weeks On campus

If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-Sessional English course length you require.

Please see our guide to Pre-Sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5, with no component below 5.5, for further details.

Contextual offers: reduced grade requirements

Based on your personal circumstances, you may automatically qualify for up to a two-grade reduction in the entry requirements needed for this course. When you apply, we consider a range of factors – such as where you live – to assess if you’re eligible for a grade reduction. You don’t have to make an application for a grade reduction – we’ll do all the work.

Find out more about how we make reduced grade offers.

About our entry requirements

Our entry requirements may change from time to time both according to national application trends and the availability of places at Liverpool for particular courses. We review our requirements before the start of the new UCAS cycle each year and publish any changes on our website so that applicants are aware of our typical entry requirements before they submit their application.

Recent changes to government policy which determine the number of students individual institutions may admit under the student number control also have a bearing on our entry requirements and acceptance levels, as this policy may result in us having fewer places than in previous years.

We believe in treating applicants as individuals, and in making offers that are appropriate to their personal circumstances and background. For this reason, we consider a range of factors in addition to predicted grades, widening participation factors amongst other evidence provided. Therefore the offer any individual applicant receives may differ slightly from the typical offer quoted in the prospectus and on the website.

Alternative entry requirements

  • If your qualification isn't listed here, or you're taking a combination of qualifications, contact us for advice
  • If you are returning to learning, have had a disrupted education or are switching career pathways, the one-year Go Higher diploma qualifies you to apply for University of Liverpool arts, humanities and social sciences programmes
  • Applications from mature students are welcome.

Changes to German BA (Hons)

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.

7 June 2022: New course pages

New course pages launched.