German and History of Art

For centuries, German-speaking cultures have had a profound international influence.

Studying German and History of Art helps you understand the contemporary world, and also sheds light on the past.

During your time with us, you will gain the skills to speak and write in German on a range of issues relating to Germany and German-speaking countries, including their visual and material culture.

German

On this programme, you will take one of the following as your first language course:

• German 1A - for beginners

• German 1B - for students with more experience of learning the language

Across all four years of our programme, which includes a year abroad, your studies will give you the chance to gain professional skills in all aspects of German, including:

• reading and listening

• writing and translating

• speaking and presenting

You will also explore German-language literature, film and theatre. You will study these in the context of historical and political developments, from the eighteenth century to contemporary times.

You will gain an excellent grasp of the German cultural context and an ability to read important sources in the original language. You will therefore be able to compare the achievements of artists, writers and filmmakers from the German-speaking world.

History of Art

Beyond the German-speaking world, History of Art will introduce you to art from different periods and cultures around the globe.

You will learn how, and for whom, works of art were made. You will also explore their meaning and discover the ways in which they can be interpreted.

Why Edinburgh

Our programme is also flexible. In Years 1 and 2, as well as studying History of Art and German, you will choose option courses from a wide range of disciplines.

We are also 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.

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

Additionally, Edinburgh is a world-leading festival city filled with galleries, cinemas, theatres, libraries and collections. Highlights include the four National Galleries of Scotland, and outstanding German holdings in the National Library of Scotland.

How long it takes to complete this degree programme

This programme is studied over 4 years, including a year abroad. This enables us to build choice and flexibility into your studies, giving you time to explore options, find what you like and build your skills.

Your first two years will be your pre-honours years. They will give you a good grounding in your subjects. In addition to studying core courses, you will broaden your education and skill set by choosing option courses. This may enable you to change the focus of your programme.

Your final two years will be your honours years. You will spend Year 3 abroad, gaining a lived experience of German-speaking culture. Year 4 will be tailored to your interests in specific topics or approaches to German and History of Art.

Programme benefits

• Learn in an historic, capital city where German has been taught for over a century.

• Study over four years, including one abroad.

• Become fluent in one of Europe's most widely spoken languages.

• Try out different subjects in your first two years.

• Delve into fantastic libraries, collection and galleries.

• Try your hand at creative writing and publishing.