Minor in German Studies

Catalog Year: 2026-2027

Banner Code: LA-MINOR-MCL-GRM

The emphasis of the minor is on developing strong language skills: oral communication and the reading of texts. Students are introduced to important works of German literature and to the culture of German-speaking countries.

A German Studies minor can easily and effectively be combined with majors in other disciplines. It is especially valuable in combination with business, computer science, international studies, history, music, philosophy, or another language.

The University Catalog is the authoritative source for information on program requirements and courses. The Schedule of Classes is the authoritative source for information on classes scheduled for this semester. See the Schedule for the most up-to-date information and see Patriot web to register for classes. Requirements may be different for earlier catalog years. See the University Catalog archives.

Policies

Eight credits of coursework must be unique to the minor. Students pursuing this minor must complete 18 credits at the 300-level or above with a minimum grade of 2.00 in each course. For policies governing all minors, see AP.5.3.4 Minors.

A maximum of two courses (6 credits) conducted in English can be applied to the minor.

Minor Requirements

Total credits: 18

Students should be aware of the specific policies associated with this program, located on the Admissions & Policies tab.

Core Courses

Select four courses taught in German from the following: 12
Conversation and Composition  
Great Cities in Germany, Austria and Switzerland  
German for the Global World (Mason Core)  
German for the Business World  
Translation of Texts  
Readings in Poetry (Topic Varies)  
Topics in German History and Culture  
German Through the Arts  
Advanced Grammar and Style  
Advanced Composition  
The Age of Goethe  
Special Topics  
Total Credits 12

Electives

Select two courses taught in English from the following: 6
Culture and Civilization  
Major Writers (Mason Core)  
Representations of the Holocaust  
German Cinema  
Northern Renaissance Art (Mason Core)  
Nineteenth-Century Europe (Mason Core)  
History of Germany (Mason Core)  
Music History in Society II (Mason Core)  
Nineteenth-Century Philosophy  
Total Credits 6