German

College of Arts and Letters

Program Description

Courses in German encompass the study of German language, literature, and culture. Language study begins with the imparting of the four basic language skills, namely, speaking, aural comprehension, reading, and writing. The teaching of these skills is provided as part of programs in liberal arts, in general education and in professional training, as well as a service for other degree programs.

The imparting of the basic language skills is the first and necessary step toward what is actually the liberal arts core of our curriculum: the upper division offerings. It is through the advanced language, literature, and culture courses that the students become familiar with the intricacies of another language and with the literary and cultural contributions made by the people who speak it.

Students who are considering the study of German should talk to a German faculty advisor. Each student minoring in German is assigned an advisor upon entry into the program. For assistance in obtaining an advisor, contact the Foreign Language Department office.

Teaching credential candidates must complete the Professional Education Program in addition to other requirements for a teaching credential. Consult a Department credential advisor for details. They may also obtain information about the Professional Education Program from theTeacher Preparation Program Office, Eureka Hall 216, (916) 278-6403.

Degree Programs

Minor in German

Subject Matter Program

Special Features

  • Close cooperation between members of the German faculty and the Sacramento German community has provided students with an opportunity to improve their language abilities and to become familiar with German customs and traditions.
  • In addition, the German Club on campus allows students to socialize with others of similar interests.
  • The Sacramento State chapter of Delta Phi Alpha, the national German honor society, gives recognition and awards to outstanding students and scholars.
  • The German program is supported by modern language laboratory facilities, a departmental library, and a collection of instructional materials.
  • Students receive tutorial help from graduate exchange students and other graduate students.
  • In order to acquire maximum proficiency in the use of the German language, students are encouraged to participate in the Sacramento State International Programs in Heidelberg or Tübingen, the student exchange program established with the Department of American Studies at the Johannes-Gutenberg Universität of Mainz, Germany, or the German-Education Student Exchange Program at the Pädagogische Hochschule of Flensburg, Germany, or the summer work abroad with the International Education Program.

Career Possibilities

International Business Personnel · Trade and Commerce · Export/Import · Interpreter/Translator · Banking Representative · Buyer/Sales Representative · Foreign/Diplomatic Service · Airlines Personnel · Travel Industry · Media Personnel/Foreign Correspondent · Public Relations · U.S. Immigration/Customs · U.S. Information Agency · Peace Corps · Language Teacher · Bilingual/Foreign Secretary · Foreign Publications/Textbook Editor · Research Assistant

Contact Information

Curtis Smith, Department Chair
Valeria Herrera, Administrative Support Coordinator
Mariposa Hall 2051
(916) 278-6333
Department of World Languages & Literatures Website

Faculty