Augustana University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary bachelor programme builds competence in German while grounding students in core areas of linguistics and literary study. Courses move from introductory language and culture through advanced language practice to specialised topics in literature and linguistic analysis.

• Language sequence: Beginning through advanced German emphasizing speaking, listening, reading and writing, with conversation and composition workshops to develop communicative fluency.
• Germanic literatures: Surveys of German literature from major periods, thematic seminars (for example modernism, exile literature, and contemporary German-language writing), and close reading of texts in translation and in the original language.
• Linguistics core: Introductory modules in phonetics and phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics and historical linguistics, with particular attention to Germanic language families.
• Applied and sociolinguistics: Courses on language variation and change, bilingualism, language policy, and discourse analysis that prepare students for real-world language contexts.
• Translation and interpretation: Practical coursework in translation theory and practice, technical translation, and sight translation relevant to professional work in public service and business.
• Capstone and experiential learning: Senior seminar or capstone project integrating linguistic analysis and literary study; opportunities for internships, community language teaching, and supervised research.
• Study abroad and exchange: Encouraged placements at partner institutions in German-speaking countries or intensive summer programmes to consolidate language proficiency and cultural knowledge.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a completed secondary-school qualification acceptable to Augustana University. Typical admissions review considers academic performance, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement explaining interest in languages and linguistics. Prior study of a foreign language is advantageous but not always required; students with little or no German may begin in the introductory sequence.

• Proficiency documentation for non-native English speakers is required, using recognised English-language tests or university-approved alternatives.
• Placement testing in German may be used to place students into the appropriate level of language coursework.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and course descriptions to evaluate credit for prior language and linguistics study.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with communicative competence in German and analytical skills in linguistics that are widely transferable. Career paths commonly pursued by alumni include:

• Teaching and education, including secondary-language instruction and adult education (additional certification may be required for K–12 teaching).
• Translation, localisation and editing for publishing, media and technology firms.
• International business, diplomacy, non-profit and government roles that require language and cross-cultural skills.
• Clinical and applied language professions, such as speech-language pathology or language assessment, typically following additional professional training.
• Research and academic careers through postgraduate study in linguistics, literature, comparative literature or applied linguistics.

Why study at Augustana University

Augustana University offers a liberal-arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, making it well suited to intensive language learning and supervised research. The programme is designed to integrate classroom study with practical experience—language labs, community teaching placements and supported study-abroad options are available to strengthen proficiency.

• Personalised instruction: Small seminars and one-to-one advising help students progress to advanced language and research skills.
• International opportunities: Faculty-guided study abroad links and exchange pathways to German-speaking universities help students gain immersive experience.
• Interdisciplinary connections: Collaboration with departments such as history, political science and theatre supports diverse career and study pathways.
• Career support: The university’s career services and internship networks assist students in translating language and analytical skills into professional experience.