German

Will my degree be recognised?

This is not really an issue with German university degrees as all degrees within the European Union are seen as equal. If you choose a good quality university then there should not be any problems relating to recognition. However, it is fair to say that German universities differ from British universities in many respects so even though the qualifications will be equal, the experience is likely to be quite different.

Does it make sense to study German abroad?

It might sound counterintuitive but it is often the case that it is easier to study foreign languages in the UK than in the country where they are spoken. Firstly, British university degrees will include a mandatory period of study abroad so British university students will have some time in the country of their language. Secondly, studying German at a German university will be highly different to studying at a British university because students have been prepared in entirely different ways; there is no comparison between a native speaker and a student who has only an A level in the language. Unless you are fully bilingual, or close to that level, studying German in Germany could be quite difficult. We advise students who are interested in doing this to consider a period of time living and working in Germany before commencing their studies.

Does it make sense to study German in a country that is not German-speaking? Usually it does not. However, many degrees will enable student to continue their languages alongside other subjects. For example, a degree in international business with languages at a Dutch university will allow students to study certain languages with English as the language of instruction.

There is one opportunity in the Netherlands to study European Languages & Culture at University of Groningen. This degree uses English as its home language. At a few Dutch universities of applied science, such as Rotterdam Business School or Amsterdam School of International Business, you can study international business in English and add German as a foreign language to your degree.

You could study German in other English speaking countries.

What grades do I need to get in?

For Irish universities such as Trinity College Dublin you will need to achieve excellent A level results. For universities in USA there is a wide range of universities and admission criteria. In Australia and New Zealand, “good” A levels will usually be necessary but it is likely you would gain admission to a well ranked university in those countries with slightly lower grades than those required in the UK. For information on German universities please visit the country information page on Germany.

What else should I bear in mind?

If your primary interest is to live in Germany then it might be worthwhile considering a degree taught in English. In contrast to some other European countries, if you study in Germany everything will be in German once you leave the classroom. This will offer you the chance to improve your language ability and study a different subject at the same time.

It is also possible to study some degrees at German private universities that are taught partly in English and German. Usually these degrees start in German and transfer to English midway through your studies which may not be ideal. However, it is an alternative to studying entirely in one language or the other. In this case, you will not be studying for a degree in German.

Where should I look for German degrees abroad?

With the exception of the one Dutch example already mentioned, Germany. Or Austria and Switzerland.