BA (Hons) in German Studies and English Literature, Lancaster University

Lancaster,

48 Months

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About this course

Lancaster’s joint German Studies and English Literature degree offers a comprehensive study experience. The German Studies component helps you acquire advanced language skills while gaining an understanding of the cultural, political, and historical contexts of the German-speaking world. In English Literature, you explore a wide range of authors, genres, periods, and critical approaches. The course combines language learning, cultural studies, and literary analysis, including modules on literature from the Middle Ages to the 21st century, with particular strengths in Romanticism, Gothic, Modernism, and contemporary literatures. Students benefit from a blend of classroom learning, cultural excursions, and the opportunity to spend a year abroad or undertake work placements, fostering intercultural competence and employability.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is highly regarded for its integration of language skills with literary and cultural studies, providing a well-rounded education in both areas. The opportunity to spend a year abroad or undertake work placements enhances intercultural competence and employability. Lancaster’s strengths in Romanticism, Iberian and German-speaking cultures, and its close relationships with cultural institutions like the Wordsworth Trust add unique value. The emphasis on developing high-level language proficiency alongside critical and analytical skills makes this degree ideal for students aiming to work internationally in fields like translation, diplomacy, publishing, or academia.

Specialisation

The course uniquely combines German Studies—focusing on language proficiency and cultural understanding—with English Literature, which covers a broad spectrum of literary texts and movements. Students can select modules aligned with their interests in areas like Romanticism, Gothic poetry, Modernism, and contemporary literatures from around the world. Optional modules allow further exploration of topics such as film, media, and critical theory, enabling deep specialisation within both disciplines.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

26.07L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants should meet A level requirements of AAB, including German at an appropriate level—either A level German or, if studying from beginners, AS grade B or GCSE grade 7/A in a foreign language. Other qualifications like the International Baccalaureate (35 points), Scottish Highers, or BTEC with appropriate evidence are acceptable. The course also requires IELTS 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component. Students studying from a language of beginners should note that beginner-level language study is intensive, and optional modules are accordingly limited.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme develop a rich set of transferable skills, including intercultural communication, research, and critical analysis, preparing them for diverse careers. Opportunities include roles in publishing, journalism, translation, civil service, academia, media, and the creative industries. Some graduates pursue postgraduate research, including Masters and PhDs in areas like literary studies, translation, and cultural analysis. The degree’s emphasis on language and cultural understanding also opens paths in international business, diplomacy, and cultural heritage sectors.

FAQs

Can beginners in German study this course?

Yes, students can study German from beginners' level, but the language module will be intensive, and you can only study one beginner-level language.

Is a year abroad part of the course?

Yes, the third year is spent abroad in a German-speaking country, offering opportunities for language development and cultural immersion.