Curriculum

Oregon State University's online German degree program will provide you with a strong foundation in the language, literature and culture of German-speaking countries. You'll engage with the latest course development technology, learn from native-speaking faculty and interact with students from all over the world.

The online German courses in this bachelor's program are aligned with the proficiency levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) A1-B2.

Oregon State's German program also offers the Goethe Language Exams. Passing certificates are accepted by employers and higher education institutions across the German-speaking world. Goethe-Institut exams correspond to the levels set out in the CEFR and range from A1 for beginners to C2 for native-level speakers.

Learn more about OSU's nationally recognized German faculty who are passionate about helping students like you develop new language skills online.

Degree requirements

A minimum of 180 quarter credits are required to graduate with your German degree, including:

• OSU's Baccalaureate Core (general education)
• B.A. or B.S. requirements
• College of Liberal Arts Core (for all majors in OSU's College of Liberal Arts)
• Major requirements: German

Honors degree online

As an undergraduate degree-seeking student, you can apply to earn an honors degree online in your academic major. Earning this prestigious degree gives you the opportunity to collaborate with faculty on research, complete a comprehensive thesis experience and engage in co-curricular activities.

Sample course topics

• German for the professions
• Culture in German-speaking countries
• German pronunciation and phonetics
• Language and culture in context
• Translation
• German-language literature
• German-language cinema

Enhance your education with a study abroad experience

Language majors are strongly encouraged to participate in a pre-approved study abroad program in a country where their language of study is spoken. As a degree-seeking Ecampus student, you'll be eligible to participate in OSU's education abroad programs offered through the Office of Global Opportunities. OSU GO offers a diverse collection of programs and countries to choose from, allowing you to match an experience to your needs and interests.

Transfer credits

Some degree requirements may be transferred from other institutions. Please note that a minimum of 45 credits of the last 75 credits in this degree program must be completed at Oregon State (online or on campus) to meet the academic residency requirement.

Previously earned credits will need to be reviewed upon admittance to OSU for appropriate articulation. Additional information about transferring credits is available through OSU’s Transfer Credit Central.

German language courses

If you're interested in German language courses rather than a full undergraduate degree, you can take first- through fourth-year German classes online through OSU Ecampus.

Add a minor

As an OSU Ecampus student, you can add a minor to your degree program. OSU offers a diverse offering of minors online. Combine your German studies with a minor in business or economics to create an even more powerful résumé fit for today's job market.