German and History of Art

For centuries, German-speaking cultures have had a profound international influence. Studying German and History of Art helps you understand the contemporary world, while shedding light on the past.

During your time with us, you will gain the skills to speak and write in German on a range of issues relating to Germany and German-speaking countries, including their visual and material culture.

When you graduate, you will have the combination of broad cultural education and specialist knowledge valued by employers worldwide.

German

On joining us, complete beginners take our German 1A course. Students with prior experience of learning the language typically take German 1B.

Across all four years of our programme, which includes a year abroad, your studies will give you the chance to gain professional skills in all aspects of German, including:

* reading and listening

* writing and translating

* speaking and presenting

You will also explore German-language literature, film and theatre. You will study these in the context of historical and political developments, from the eighteenth century to contemporary times.

You will gain an excellent grasp of the German cultural context and an ability to read important sources in the original language. You will therefore be able to compare the achievements of artists, writers and filmmakers from the German-speaking world.

History of Art

Beyond the German-speaking world, History of Art will introduce you to art from different periods and cultures around the globe.

You will learn how, and for whom, works of art were made. You will also explore their meaning and discover the ways in which they can be interpreted.

Why Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a world-leading festival city filled with galleries, cinemas, theatres, libraries and collections. Highlights include the four National Galleries of Scotland, and outstanding German holdings in the National Library of Scotland.

We are unique in Scotland in offering students a full academic year abroad within the four-year honours programme, regardless of whether you spend the year studying or working.

Our programme is also flexible. In Years 1 and 2, as well as studying History of Art and German, you will choose option courses from a wide range of disciplines. You will then specialise as you progress through your honours years.