Why study German?
Today, there are more reasons to study German than ever before. German is the most commonly spoken language in the European Union. Germany is Europe's largest economy, the world's third largest exporting nation, an influential member of the European Union, and a key player at the United Nations.
German speakers have left a trace on every aspect of Western culture: music, literature, art, theatre and film, architecture and philosophy.
Top reasons to study German
Business
Communicating with German business partners in their own language creates better, more effective relationships – and a greater chance of success.
Careers
Knowledge of German makes you a more attractive choice for German companies – active in virtually every corner of the global market.
Tourism
Since German tourists travel widely and spend more money than any other national group, there is always a demand for language skills in this important sector.
Research
German is the second most important language in scientific research and Germany's overall contribution to research and development ranks number three in the world. Germany is an important source of research scholarships for foreign academics and students.
Communication
Developments in media and technology have made multi-lingual communications skills more crucial than ever before.
Intercultural understanding
Learning German will give you an insight into the lives of people in some of Europe's most diverse and multicultural societies.
Travel
By broadening your knowledge of German you will open up opportunities for travel not just in Germany, Austria and Switzerland but also in other parts of Europe, especially Eastern Europe.
Culture
German is the language of some of the greatest artists, writers, poets, musicians and philosophers who have ever lived. Studying German gives you a chance to experience their work directly in the original language.
Study and work in Germany
Every year German organisations award a large number of scholarships for study in Germany. You will also improve your chances of obtaining a work visa for Germany if you can demonstrate good language skills.
Career opportunities
A degree with a major in German will open job opportunities in both the private and public sectors – in business, trade, consultancy, tourism, education, as well as in foreign affairs and other government agencies.
Recent Otago graduates who have included German in their degree now work as consultants, marketing managers, journalists, teachers and librarians, all around the world.
German studies graduates are generalists and have many transferable skills. Your ability to analyse and communicate effectively as well as the international perspectives that you will have gained by studying German at Otago will certainly give you an edge.
Combining another degree with German as a minor or as a Diploma also increases students' options in the job market. Increasingly, studies in law, commerce, international business and communications are enhanced when you can offer cultural experience or language skills alongside your major area of study
