German Studies | Career Centre

Have you always wanted to study the German language and the history of German-speaking European society and culture? From literature to philosophy to cinema and language, majoring in German Studies will allow you to explore the vibrant and vast inheritance of German-speaking Europe through an integrative curriculum. You will follow courses in both English and German and will be able to, should you wish, partake in a year-long exchange in a long list of universities in a variety of cities across Germany and Austria. Much more than just the study of a language, this major can let you unearth a passion, a calling and a path to a future career.

Career Options in German Studies

This list is not exhaustive but provides an idea of the options graduates have and what they have gone on to do. Some options are more directly associated with a German Studies degree than others.

Archivist
Art Dealer
Author
Communications Consultant
Cultural Consultant
Diplomat
Entrepreneur
Event Planner
Executive Assistant
Foreign Business Consultant
Fundraising Coordinator
Historian
Historical Site Guide
Human Resources Specialist
Industrial Relations Consultant
International Aid Director
International Brand Strategist
International Development
Worker
Interpreter
Journalist
Lawyer
Legal Aid Worker

Librarian
Linguist
Lobbyist
Market Researcher
Marketing Director
Media Correspondent
Non-Profit Organization Director
Paralegal
Politician
Professor
Public Policy Analyst
Public Relations Representative
Publisher
Recruiter
Researcher
Retail Strategist
Social Program Director
Speech Coach
Speech Writer
Teacher
Translator
UN Representative

Some of these career choices may require additional education or preparation in the form of graduate studies, experiential education or professional formative courses and exams. For a more in-depth description of some of the careers mentioned above visit Career Cruising (login information can be found on the home page of the Career Centre's online system) or the National Occupational Classification website.

Skills Developed through a German Studies Degree

A background in German Studies ensures that you develop the skills and mindset to tackle many different professional challenges.

Core Skills

Transferable skills in critical thinking, oral and written communication and project management in both English and German
A fluency in key issues concerning German-speaking European society from an interdisciplinary perspective that encompasses subjects ranging from language, literature and film studies to intellectual and cultural history, urban studies, political science, museum studies, art history and women’s studies
Creativity and imagination developed through the analysis of cultural texts from German-speaking Europe

Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills

The ability to engage with new knowledge and to apply research methodologies and theoretical approaches to your studies
Deduction of information from various sources and the ability to concentrate on relevant resources
The ability to organize, understand and analyze sources of information and to apply new information to different professional settings and tasks
The capacity to critically analyze problems, think creatively and make sound decisions while considering different sides of an argument
The skills to collect various types of information, assess them, analyze and incorporate potential linkages from different fields, put them into writing and efficiently convey your message and the goal of your work

Management and Teamwork

The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, theories, ideas and reports in order to achieve a project’s intended and successful end result
The capacity to lead and interact with a variety of people with different approaches and personal and professional backgrounds
Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
The ability to debate, persuade, mediate and present your thoughts and opinions to others, as well as the capacity to recognize and incorporate other potential solutions or applications to given problems

Professional Associations and Organizations

Knowing the industry and how to excel in it after receiving a degree are key elements of future success. University study sets up the building blocks you will need to develop and enhance your understanding and knowledge in your career. Being part of a professional organization or network and gaining further insight through training are excellent ways of increasing your knowledge of the field.