COURSE CURRICULUM

The German program at DePaul University offers a diverse and culturally rich curriculum designed to help students master the German language while exploring the literature, history, media, and cultural traditions of German-speaking societies. The coursework spans a wide range of topics that reflect both historical depth and contemporary relevance. Courses such as Berlin and the Golden Twenties examine the cultural vibrancy of interwar Germany, while Coffeehouses and Culture in Turn of the Century Vienna explores intellectual life in Austria during a period of artistic and philosophical flourishing. Literature-focused classes like Kafka and the Kafkaesque and The German Novella introduce students to key literary styles and themes, encouraging deep analysis of narrative structure, identity, and existential thought.Language and communication skills are developed through practical courses such as German Translation and Business German, which prepare students for professional use of the language in fields like international business, diplomacy, and global communication. Film and media studies are also an important part of the curriculum, with courses such as New German Cinema and The Contemporary German Film allowing students to analyze how German-speaking filmmakers represent history, society, and identity. Cultural and interdisciplinary courses like Multicultural Germany: Literature, Film, Food, and Culture and Voicing Migration: Turkish-German Music, Literature, and Film explore modern Germany’s diverse society and the experiences of migration and multiculturalism. Other specialized courses, such as Coming to Terms with the Past and The Uncanny and the Self, focus on historical memory, psychology, and philosophical themes in German culture, while Breaking News in the German Speaking World helps students engage with contemporary media and current events in German-speaking countries.Students can also choose from several academic tracks depending on their interests and career goals. The Commercial German track emphasizes practical language skills for business and international trade, preparing students for global careers in corporate environments. The German Language and Literature track focuses on advanced linguistic mastery and in-depth literary analysis, while the German Studies track offers a broader interdisciplinary approach that combines culture, history, film, and language. Overall, the program provides students with strong linguistic proficiency, critical thinking skills, and a deep understanding of German-speaking cultures, preparing them for careers in education, translation, international relations, media, and global business.