BA in German
Build fluency and understand the world through language
Entwickeln Sie Sprachkompetenz und verstehen Sie die Welt durch Sprache.
German is spoken by more than 100 million people worldwide and is widely used in fields like engineering, science, business and global research. The BA in German at the University at Buffalo helps you build strong language skills while exploring culture, history and communication across contexts.
A global language with real-world relevance
German connects you to one of the largest economies in the European Union and to industries that value clear communication, technical knowledge and cultural understanding.
This BA program is a strong fit if you want to become fluent in German while developing skills that apply across careers and industries.
At UB, you will:
- Build proficiency in speaking, reading and writing in German
- Study culture, history and ideas from German-speaking regions
- Strengthen your ability to communicate across languages and contexts
- Develop research, writing and critical thinking skills
- Apply your knowledge through advanced coursework and independent study
You will not just learn a language. You will learn how to use it to understand people, ideas and global systems.
What makes this program different
The BA in German combines language study with cultural and intellectual exploration.
You will:
- Study language alongside literature, history and culture
- Explore ideas from influential thinkers and traditions
- Examine how language reflects identity, society and change
- Build skills that transfer across disciplines and careers
This approach gives you both language proficiency and a broader understanding of the world.
The BA in German gives you flexibility to shape your studies based on your interests.
You can:
- Focus on language, culture and global communication
- Add study abroad or interdisciplinary coursework
- Pair your major with a Linguistics concentration to explore how language works
The BA in German is designed to help you build skills over time, starting with foundations and progressing to advanced study.
Language progression
- Your starting point depends on your experience:
- Students with little or no prior experience begin with introductory courses
- Students with prior experience may place into higher levels
- Placement is based on prior coursework or demonstrated proficiency
Core coursework
You will:
- Complete intermediate and advanced German language courses
- Take upper-level courses in language, culture and communication
- Choose from a range of electives based on your interests
Language + linguistics
You can combine linguistics with language study through concentrations in German Language and Linguistics.
Advanced study
You will:
- Complete upper-level coursework
- Pursue independent study or specialized topics
- Have opportunities to study abroad or take approved related courses
A flexible path
Tailor the BA in German to your experience and goals through study abroad, approved courses in related fields and a course sequence that reflects your placement and prior experience.
You will develop advanced language skills along with analytical and communication abilities.
You will:
- Communicate effectively in German across speaking, listening, reading and writing
- Understand German grammar, structure and usage
- Interpret texts and cultural materials from different time periods
- Analyze ideas and communicate them clearly
- Apply critical thinking to language and cultural contexts
A degree in German prepares you for roles that require strong communication, cultural awareness and analytical thinking.
Graduates may pursue work in:
- International business and global organizations
- Education and language instruction
- Government, policy or nonprofit work
- Translation and cross-cultural communication
- Writing, editing and communication
Some students continue into graduate study in German, linguistics or related fields.
If you want to build language skills and gain a deeper understanding of culture, communication and global systems, the BA in German offers a flexible and meaningful path.
