German Studies Minor

Students take language classes in a dynamic, student-centered environment that highlights language acquisition as well as cultural sensitivity for the heritage of the German-speaking nations. Beginning students acquire the ability to speak, understand, read, and write in German with reasonable fluency. Students should have a good background in English grammar and syntax. While knowledge of German is welcome, it is not required.

Study Abroad Options

Students have the opportunity to study abroad with the CSU International Programs in Germany. Students are encouraged to officially plan an academic residency abroad when possible. The cost of the residency abroad varies according to the program and world region. Students should understand the costs involved and plan ahead. Consult with the HSU Center for International Programs.

Possible Careers

Careers in the USA, Europe and other countries include artist, musician, web designer, teacher, ESL teacher, international banker, lawyer, or financier, interpreter, travel agent, tour guide, export/import employee, foreign service officer, foreign correspondent, or work in non-governmental organizations.

Special Scholarship and Awards

The Department of World Languages and Cultures has three permanent scholarships and awards:

The Benavides-Garb Family International Travel Award
The Joe and Helen Bottino Memorial Travel Award
The Frank B. Wood Scholarship

All language students are encouraged to apply for these important scholarships and awards to enhance language studies with an international residence. Information is available on the Department of World Languages and Cultures webpage.

Requirements for the Minor (22 units)

Required Courses (16 Units)

GERM 107 - German Language & Culture III Units: 4
GERM 207 - German Language & Culture IV Units: 4
GERM 311 - German Level V Units: 4
GERM 312 - German Level VI Units: 4

Upper Division Electives (6 Units)

Complete an additional 6 units selected from the following courses (depending upon interests and particular emphasis of the student), with at least one course from outside of the German program.

Courses offered by various departments, often under the rubric of Special Topics, may be relevant and appropriate to the German Studies minor. Such courses will be approved by the German Studies faculty advisor on a case-by-case basis.

ART 301 - Topics in Western Art History Units: 3 [when appropriate]
ECON 305 - International Economics & Globalization Units: 3
ENGL 240 - World Literature Units: 4 [when appropriate]
GEOG 472 - Topics in Regional Geography Units: 1-4 [when appropriate]
GERM 306 - Sex, Class & Culture: Gender & Ethnic Issues in International Short Stories Units: 3
GERM 480 - Undergraduate Seminar Units: 1-4
GERM 499 - Directed Study Units: 1-3
HIST 300 - The Era of World War I Units: 3
HIST 301 - The Era of World War II Units: 3
HIST 348 - Modern Germany Units: 4
PHIL 343 - Kant & the 19th Century Units: 3
PSCI 330 - Political Regimes & Political Change Units: 4 Europe

About Electives

The department encourages students to combine the study of German with their other academic interests. In addition to the courses listed above, students may use relevant courses from other disciplines as elective credit toward the minor in German Studies. For example: an art history class discussing German art topics; a geography class focused on Western Europe; history and political science classes in which German issues are a major part; or a philosophy class covering German philosophers. Consult with the German advisor about these electives.