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

Lancaster,

48 Months

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About this course

Lancaster’s joint German Studies and Philosophy degree offers a rich blend of language acquisition, cultural understanding, and philosophical inquiry. The program is taught by the School of Global Affairs and the Department of Politics, Philosophy and Religion, providing a multidisciplinary approach. You will develop high-level German language skills while exploring the country’s historical, cultural, social, and political contexts, alongside engaging with core philosophical themes. The course includes a year abroad in a German-speaking country, providing immersion and intercultural experience. The curriculum balances language modules with topics in philosophy such as metaphysics, ethics, political philosophy, and more, with scope for optional modules that deepen your understanding in specialized areas. The degree aims to foster critical thinking, intercultural sensitivity, and transferable skills valuable in a range of careers.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course stands out due to its unique integration of language, culture, and philosophy, providing a comprehensive educational experience. Lancaster’s strong reputation in Iberian Languages, French, and Italian is reflected in the course’s high ranking in these areas. It offers practical skills in German, including a year abroad, which significantly boost employability and intercultural competence. The philosophy component fosters critical thinking and analytical skills highly valued by employers. The flexible modules and year abroad options support personalized learning, and the course's excellent teaching reputation makes it a great choice for students seeking a blend of language proficiency and philosophical depth within a supportive university environment.

Specialisation

This program combines German Studies and Philosophy, allowing students to specialise in both areas simultaneously. The curriculum includes modules in advanced German language skills, German culture, history, and politics, alongside broad philosophical disciplines such as epistemology, moral philosophy, metaphysics, and political theory. Students can choose optional modules to tailor their studies towards particular interests, including applied philosophy, queer theory, or translation. The structure emphasises language proficiency, cultural knowledge, and philosophical analysis, with opportunities for year abroad placements or work experience to enhance intercultural and professional skills.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

26.07L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need to meet an A level requirement of ABB, which should include German or another foreign language at this level. Alternatively, students with AS grade B or GCSE grade 7/A in a language can also be considered. Other accepted qualifications include an Access to HE Diploma with evidence of language ability, BTEC DDM alongside language skills, International Baccalaureate with 32 points overall and language evidence, and other advanced qualifications. English language proficiency must be demonstrated with an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates from this degree develop a wide range of transferable skills, including intercultural communication, analytical reasoning, and intercultural sensitivity. These are highly valued in fields such as accountancy, IT, business development, civil service, journalism, translation, research, and education. The philosophy component further strengthens abilities in problem-solving, ethical reasoning, and communication, opening careers in academia, public policy, NGOs, and more. Opportunities for postgraduate study are also available, with master's degrees in Philosophy, Languages and Cultures, Translation, and PhD options. The program's focus on international placement and work experience enhances employability in global markets.

FAQs

Is prior knowledge of German required?

Students can join the course with A level German or an equivalent, but beginners can also start from basics in Part I German Studies modules designed for those with little or no previous knowledge.

Is a year abroad compulsory?

Yes, spending a year abroad in a German-speaking country is a compulsory and integral part of the degree, offering immersion and intercultural experience.