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Subject area: German

Why choose German at the University of Edinburgh?

  • Edinburgh is a world-leading festival city filled with cinemas, theatres, galleries, libraries and collections. The National Library of Scotland has outstanding German holdings and the University has the Karin McPherson Collection, a unique resource for students interested in the literature and culture of the German Democratic Republic (GDR).

  • We are ranked 3rd in the UK and 10th in the world for modern languages in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024.

  • From making friends in language cafes to campaigning on global issues, the Edinburgh University Students' Association (EUSA) supports more than 300 student-led activities. There is a German Society and a creative writing magazine especially for European languages. We also have excellent links with the German Consulate and the Goethe-Institut.

  • We are unique in Scotland in offering students a full academic year abroad within the four-year honours programme, regardless of whether you spend the year studying or working. If you are studying German and another language, you will divide your time between two countries, broadening your skills and experience.

Study abroad

My favourite aspect of studying German at the University of Edinburgh is the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of German-language literature and film. The combination of quality teaching and rich class discussion gives you fresh insight into the complex cultural histories of the German-speaking world, and allows you to reconsider their modern day relevance.

Jolie Year 2, German and English Literature MA (Hons)
Jolie Year 2, German and English Literature MA (Hons)

Introducing German

For centuries, German-speaking cultures have had a profound international influence. Over one third of Europeans speak German as their first language, and the language ranks in the world's top 20. It is particularly important within business and politics.

Study German with us and you will learn the language while exploring literature, film and theatre, all within the context of historical and political developments. Our courses cover material and topics from the 18th century to contemporary times.

You can take German as a single honours degree programme, or as a joint honours with one of a wide range of partner subjects, including other European languages.

We welcome students with various levels of experience, including complete beginners. Through intensive language study, including a year abroad, you will have the chance to gain professional skills in all aspects of German, including:

  • reading and writing
  • listening, speaking and presenting
  • translation

When you graduate, you will have the combination of broad cultural education and specialist knowledge valued by employers worldwide.

Teaching takes place in the University of Edinburgh's Central Area, which is located on the edge of Edinburgh's historic Old Town, surrounded by lots of green space.