German
As the first language of more than 100 million Europeans, German is Europe’s most widely spoken first language and is also an important language of diplomacy and trade. German-speaking countries have a rich cultural history and are significant players in the cultural, economic and political future of Europe. Germany plays a role within the emergent economies of Central and Eastern Europe, and is a major investor in global markets, with many leading German companies becoming household names.
You may want to learn German for travel within Europe, to appreciate the culture of Germany, Austria and Switzerland or as a career asset. There’s a demand in the international business community for people with a good working knowledge of the language . The ability to speak and understand German is a highly useful skill, and studying German at the OU will not only give you an insight into contemporary culture – it will broaden your horizons.
Where to start in German
If you haven’t studied a language with The Open University before, or have any doubt about the standard of your German, have a look at the taster website for Rundblick: beginners' German (L193), our beginners’ German course.
If your German is more advanced, try the taster websites for our other courses, to get an idea of the starting level that’s appropriate for you: taster website for Auftakt: get ahead in German (L130) (for learners with a basic knowledge of German); taster website for Motive: upper intermediate German (L203) (which extends the language skills developed in Auftakt: get ahead in German (L130)); and the taster website for Variationen: German language and society (L313) (which follows on from Motive: upper intermediate German (L203)).
Don't forget that if you need help considering options you can talk to an adviser. And if you have some previous study experience you may qualify for credit transfer.
Degrees
-
Humanities with German
This degree allows you to combine courses on the German language and different aspects of the arts – what people thought, made and practised – and their meaning and values in the past and today. -
Modern Language Studies
Combine the study of one or two foreign languages (French, German, Spanish) with the study of English language and linguistics. -
Open degree
The BA/BSc Open Degree provides a flexible way to combine a range of courses from different subjects either to suit your particular career or personal interests, or to complete studies you have started elsewhere.
Diplomas
Certificates
Courses in German
See the list of all our individual courses in German.
Postgraduate options
If you already have a degree, you may want to see postgraduate courses and qualifications in Languages.
Spotlight on German
'L193 - a great course'
‘I had always considered myself to be 'bad at languages' and had a terror of grammar, but the course changed all that. The course materials were well-written and friendly in tone. Rundblick: beginners German (L193) has a very real-world approach to acquiring basic German skills, so the grammar was introduced slowly and only as necessary.’ (Rundblick: beginners German (L193) student)
Got a question?
Contact an adviser in our Student Registration & Enquiry Service
Email or call +44(0) 845 300 60 90
