German Minor

The German minor program can enable students to achieve a reasonable proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. The program also introduces students to German literature and culture.

Graduates have found their foreign-language education particularly useful in several professional and business careers including education, health services, and government.

Exploring the Minor — Students interested in German as a minor should complete or waive GER 101 and GER 102 as early as possible. Those who have had previous experience with German should contact the faculty in German for a waiver interview, which will determine their appropriate entry-level course.

Course Sequencing Considerations (in order to complete degree requirements within eight terms) — Whether starting with GER 101 or at a higher level, prospective German minors should begin taking GER courses as soon as possible. Unless waived, all introductory courses (GER 101, GER 102, GER 103) must be taken in sequence. After completion of GER 103, students may take upper-level courses in any order.

Proficiency Requirements for the Minor — A grade of C or higher in each required GER course is required for continuation in the minor. In addition to specified course requirements, each student must satisfy departmental standards for written and oral communication. Minors must meet all departmental requirements, including a B- average (2.8 GPA) in German, in order to receive financial support from the Department to study abroad.

Other Considerations in the Minor — The Department offers financial assistance for German minors who wish to study abroad. Acceptance into the minor neither requires nor guarantees study abroad. Nevertheless, minors strongly are encouraged to study abroad during a summer term in Germany or Austria. The program must be approved by the foreign-language faculty, which advises students in selecting the proper program and in applying for scholarships.