COURSE CURRICULUM

Germanic Studies at the University of Victoria is designed to provide students with a structured progression in language learning, cultural understanding and advanced analysis of German-speaking societies. In Year 1, students begin with GMST100, an introduction to Germanic Studies, and complete additional lower-level GMST courses (100–299 level) alongside a broad selection of electives that allow exploration of other academic interests. In Year 2, students continue building their foundation by taking further GMST 100–299 level courses while completing a larger portion of electives, helping them develop language proficiency and cultural awareness at an early stage. In Years 3 and 4, students move into advanced study with GMST300, which focuses on Germanic cultural studies, and choose either advanced German language courses or specialized upper-level topics such as film or popular culture in German. They also complete additional GMST 300–499 level courses, allowing deeper engagement with literature, media, history and cultural analysis. Throughout the program, electives provide flexibility to combine Germanic Studies with other disciplines. Overall, the program emphasizes language mastery, intercultural competence and critical understanding of German-speaking regions, preparing students for global careers or further academic study.