The German Language and Culture courses at ANU are aimed at students who seek to develop a high level of competence in German language as well as a critical understanding of German-speaking cultures.
You can choose from courses in German language, literature, film, cultural studies, and contemporary social issues. Courses are offered from introductory to advanced levels. Our German staff have research expertise in areas spanning 19th to 21st-century German culture, literature, history and politics, including the classic German coming-of-age Bildungsroman, modernist and contemporary dance, representations of gender and sexuality, the culture of the Weimar Republic, performance and screen cultures, and ideas of authority and populism.
With a rich literary and philosophical heritage, German is a language of culture, science, technology, business and international relations. This role has increased since Germany's reunification, with Germany playing a leading role in European politics. Its capital Berlin, famously declared "poor, but sexy" by the city's mayor, boasts dynamic art and youth culture scenes. German is the most commonly spoken first language in the European Union, with around 100 million speakers in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
During your degree, you are encouraged to take advantage of various exchange agreements with ANU's partner universities in Germany and Austria (Berlin, Bielefeld, Bonn, Freiburg, Munich, and Vienna) and study abroad. You will receive credit for courses studied abroad and scholarships are also available.
The exact sequence of courses depends on your language proficiency when beginning German at ANU. If you have previous knowledge of German you will be asked to sit a placement test to determine the appropriate entry level.
Career Options
Germany is the largest economy in Europe, one of Australia’s most important trading partners and a world leader in environmental policy. An understanding of the culture, history, politics and economy of the German-speaking countries, often combined with another subject like business, science or law, will improve employment opportunities in many areas, such as international law and business, foreign affairs and international relations, public policy and administration, or media and tourism.
- Watch: German Language and Culture featured in Get Ahead with an ANU Bachelor of Arts video
- Read: German Language and Culture Student Profile