German Language, Literature, and Culture, BA

Contact:

Karina Von Tippelskirch
315 H.B. Crouse
315-443-5383
Kvontipp@syr.edu

Faculty

Mona Eikel-Pohen, Karina von Tippelskirch

This B.A. program offers instruction in German language, literature, and culture. GER 101 , GER 102 (or the equivalent) are prerequisites for GER 201 and for advanced-level courses. Upper-level courses provide in-depth study of German literature and culture and further development of linguistic skills.

All students with more than one year of high school German are required to take a placement examination. The requirement applies to all new Syracuse University students regardless of class standing or study elsewhere.

Students interested in studying German should consult the program coordinator of German as early as possible. Early consultation is particularly important for students with little or no preparation in German so they may be sure to satisfy prerequisites and requirements within four years.

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Develop proficiency of German on the B 2 Level (Vantage) on the Common European Framework of Reference, CEFR; (in line with the “Advanced Low” level on the ACTFL guidelines), moving towards C 1 in listening and reading

2. Interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers possible without strain for either party

3. Understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc.

4. Comprehend the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialization

5. Produce short research papers in German investigating literary texts or cultural topics

6. Compare and contrast the cultural traits of the three main German-speaking countries, Austria, Germany and Switzerland

7. Appraise a variety of literary genres, topics, and forms

Major Requirements

The major in German consists of 27 credits including GER 202 plus at least eight upper-division courses taught in German.

Study Abroad

To become fluent in the language and experience the culture in the countries where German is spoken, students are strongly encouraged to study abroad for a semester or a year. Syracuse University’s World Partner programs in Berlin, Freiburg and Graz enable students to take fully accredited classes in German language, literature and culture. The Freiburg Program, in collaboration with Colgate University, gives advanced German students the opportunity to take classes in German and in other fields of study such as history, international relations, journalism, and other electives in the arts and sciences. For further information, contact the German program coordinator or Syracuse University Abroad, 106 Walnut Place (suabroad.syr.edu).