University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The programme blends progressive German language courses with classes in literature, cultural studies and linguistics. Early semesters focus on building communicative proficiency in listening, speaking, reading and writing; intermediate and advanced courses emphasise complex grammar, stylistics and discourse. Core linguistic topics typically include phonetics and phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics and sociolinguistics, taught with both general-linguistics perspectives and applications to Germanic languages.

• Elementary, intermediate and advanced German language sequence
• German literature from medieval to contemporary periods
• German culture, film, and civilization courses
• Foundations of linguistics: phonetics, morphology, syntax, semantics
• Historical linguistics and the development of Germanic languages
• Applied topics such as translation, language pedagogy and discourse analysis
• Capstone seminar, senior project or practicum integrating language and linguistics

Students may combine the major with minors or certificates in areas such as teaching, international studies, English, computer science or digital humanities. Opportunities for study abroad in German-speaking countries and for undergraduate research with faculty are strongly encouraged to develop communicative competence and cultural awareness.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent and meet the University of North Dakota's general admission requirements. Typical preparation includes coursework in English and a demonstrated interest in languages. Students with previous German study may be required to take a placement test to determine the appropriate starting level.

• Standard undergraduate admission to the university
• Placement assessment for prior German study
• International applicants must meet the university's English-proficiency requirements (for example by presenting acceptable scores or exemptions)
• Students pursuing teacher licensure should consult the education department for additional requirements and admissions steps

Career prospects

Graduates leave with strong language proficiency, cultural literacy and analytical skills valued across multiple sectors. Common career paths include:

• Secondary and post-secondary teaching (with appropriate teacher certification)
• Translation and interpretation for public, private and non-profit organisations
• International business, diplomacy and government service
• Publishing, journalism and media focusing on German-language regions
• Language technology, corpus linguistics and computational linguistics roles when combined with technical training
• Graduate study in linguistics, literature, applied linguistics or related disciplines

Alumni often combine language skills with professional qualifications (business, law, education) to expand career options in global contexts.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers personalised instruction in a department with experienced faculty in both German studies and linguistics. Small class sizes allow close mentorship for language development and research projects, while campus resources such as language labs, conversation groups and cultural events support active learning.

• Faculty engaged in research across literature, applied linguistics and language pedagogy
• Opportunities for study abroad and exchange programs in German-speaking countries to boost fluency
• Collaborative undergraduate research and capstone experiences
• Advising and pathways for students interested in teacher licensure or interdisciplinary double majors
• Active campus and regional German cultural connections that enrich classroom learning

Together these features make UND a strong choice for students seeking rigorous language training combined with a broad foundation in linguistics and cultural studies.