BA (Hons) in German Studies and Geography, Lancaster University

Lancaster,

48 Months

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About this course

This course offers an in-depth exploration of the German language, culture, and society alongside developing your geographical skills. You will learn from renowned lecturers and participate in international field trips. The programme combines core modules in geography with language classes tailored to your ability, enabling you to gain practical skills and understanding of both disciplines. In your third year, you will undertake a year abroad in a German-speaking country, where you practice language skills and analyze social, cultural, political, and economic issues. The final year involves an extended essay that allows you to investigate a topic of your choice at the intersection of German studies and geography. The campus's location provides excellent opportunities for fieldwork in diverse environments, including the Yorkshire Dales, Cumbrian coast, Lake District, and Croatia. The course emphasizes practical learning, transferable skills, and employability, preparing you for diverse careers or postgraduate study.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is ideal for students interested in developing advanced language skills alongside a comprehensive understanding of geography. The international placement year is a key feature, providing real-world experience abroad, which enhances employability and cultural competence. Lancaster’s location offers unique opportunities for fieldwork across the UK and internationally. The course combines practical skills, academic rigour, and cultural insight, making graduates well-prepared for careers in international relations, environmental management, urban planning, or further academic study. The university’s strong reputation in languages and geography, along with its excellent facilities and support, further adds value.

Specialisation

The programme begins with a broad foundation in geography and German in the first year, with specialisation starting in the second year. You can choose topics that match your interests, including cultural and political geography, and deepen your knowledge of the German language with specialist modules. In the third year, students spend a year in a German-speaking country, focusing on language practice and socio-cultural analysis. The final year culminates in an extended research essay, allowing for in-depth investigation into a chosen topic related to both disciplines.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

28.78L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need ABB at A level, including German or a foreign language at AS B or GCSE 7/A in another foreign language if studied from beginners' level. Preferred subjects include Geography, Anthropology, Classics, Economics, and others. Additional qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate with 32 points, Scottish Highers with relevant grades, or equivalent qualifications are considered. A GCSE in Mathematics and English at grade 4/C is required. English proficiency for international students is IELTS 6.5 overall, with at least 5.5 in each component. Specific requirements exclude L1 or fluent German speakers above CEFR B2.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates can pursue careers in planning, environmental consultancy, GIS management, weather forecasting, emergency planning, or landscape architecture. Many move into roles abroad, leveraging their language skills and cultural understanding, or continue to postgraduate studies for careers in academia and research. The programme emphasizes transferable skills such as communication, environmental analysis, and intercultural competence, which are highly valued in various sectors. Students also benefit from extracurricular activities, volunteer placements, and a dedicated careers module, all of which support successful transition into the workforce.

FAQs

What are the entry requirements for this course?

ABB at A level, including German or other foreign languages from beginners' level, and preferred subjects like Geography. International Baccalaureate, Scottish Highers, and other equivalent qualifications are also accepted.

Is a year abroad compulsory?

Yes, spending a year in a German-speaking country is an integral and assessed part of the course, providing practical language use and cultural immersion.