Programs of Study

A B.A. in German or German Studies can lead to graduate work in German, in comparative literature, or a variety of related fields (e.g. library science or linguistics). Some German majors have found careers in teaching at all levels, in government work (e.g. at the State Department), journalism, medicine, law, international business, or in music, both in this country and in Europe.

Major

Two majors are offered. A basic knowledge of the German language is fundamental to both.

1. The German Major

This major is concerned primarily with the study of literature and may include film. Genres, literary movements, and individual authors and themes are examined with the aim of expanding the student's capacity for literary analysis and appreciation. The German major consists of a minimum of 31 semester hours which should be accumulated as follows: a) At least 22 hours in German language, literature, and film at the 300 and 400 level. Of these, 311 and 312, two 400-level courses, including 433, and at least one semester of 304 (Writer-in-Residence) are required. b) At least 9 hours of 300- or 400-level courses in related literary fields, e.g. comparative literature, literary theory (see English 342 and 343), or other literature courses. c) No more than 9 hours in translation. A minimum of 12 semester hours in German language and literature (above 204) must be completed at Oberlin. Private reading courses do not normally count toward the major.

Strongly recommended correlated fields include European History, German History, History of Art, History of Music, and French.

2. The German Studies Major

This major places more emphasis on cultural aspects other than literature (e.g. film, music, art, philosophy, history). It consists of a minimum of 32 semester hours which may be accumulated as follows: a) At least 15 hours in German language and literature courses at the 300- and 400-level, but not including courses in translation; of these, 311 and 312, two 400-level courses (including 433) and at least one semester of 304 (Writer-in-Residence) are required. b) At least nine hours to be selected from courses with total or substantial (50% or more) German content in two or more disciplines other than German language and literature. c) No more than six hours in German literature in translation. A minimum of 16 hours toward the German Studies major must be completed at Oberlin. Private reading courses do not normally count toward the German Studies major. The entire German staff will constitute a special committee to administer the German Studies major.

3. Honors

Qualified German or German Studies majors should consider the possibility of participating in the departmental Honors Program. Admittance requires a minimum GPA within the major of 3.5 and an overall GPA of 3.0. Students interested in pursuing Honors should consult the department chairperson by the beginning of the second semester of their junior year.

Minor

A minor in German consists of 15 hours at the 300 and 400 levels, which may include one course in translation. One three-hour course must be at the 400 level.