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German, MA

German, MA


German, Language, Linguistics, foreign, literature

This program is not currently accepting applications.


Develop a rigorous and vast understanding of German language and culture. With dedicated professors who want to ensure your success in this degree, you can unlock your potential for international relations.

Program description
Degree awarded: MA  German

The MA program in German offers students professional training in German linguistic, literary and cultural studies through courses and supervision of research that culminate in an applied project or thesis.

In consultation with their advisor, students arrange their coursework around one of three focus areas: literature, comparative literature, or language and culture. The program is designed to equip students to become independent and creative professionals as they broaden their knowledge of Germany as one of the world's leading economies, cultural contributors and human rights advocates.

At a glance
Degree requirements

30 credit hours and a thesis, or
30 credit hours including the required applied project course (GER 593)

The plan of study for the master's degree includes a minimum of 30 credit hours of graduate-level work and a thesis or an applied project, as approved by the candidate's supervisory committee. The program must include a 500-level bibliography and research methods course offered by the school. When approved by the candidate's supervisory committee, nine credit hours in another language or in closely related courses may be included in the program.

Admission requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in German from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

  1. graduate admission application and application fee
  2. official transcripts
  3. personal statement
  4. resume or curriculum vitae
  5. writing sample
  6. three letters of recommendation
  7. proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Those who lack a degree in a related field but who show strong potential and meet the Graduate College admission requirements may be admitted to a graduate program on a provisional basis, pending removal of specified deficiencies. These deficiencies must be completed in addition to the regular program of study for the master's degree.

The writing sample should represent the applicant's thinking as well as their writing skills, and it should be written in German on a topic pertaining to the German language or culture.

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Career opportunities

Professionals with the valued skills they developed in this degree program can confidently move into academic, business, diplomatic, government and international fields.

Career examples include:

  • area, ethnic and cultural studies teachers and professors
  • foreign language and literature teachers and professors
  • historians
  • interpreters and translators
  • lawyers
  • reporters and correspondents
  • social and community service managers
Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program)?
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

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