Doane University

What you'll study

This programme builds progressive skills in German language across speaking, listening, reading and writing while introducing students to major works of German literature and cultural history. Coursework typically includes sequential language courses (elementary through advanced), surveys of German literature, and topical seminars such as German film, contemporary German society, and comparative literature.

Complementary linguistics modules explore the structure and use of language, including courses in phonetics and phonology, morphology and syntax, semantics and pragmatics, and sociolinguistics. Students may also study language acquisition, historical linguistics (with attention to the Germanic language family), and methods of linguistic analysis.

• Core language sequence: Elementary, intermediate and advanced German language courses with emphasis on communicative competence and grammar review.
• Literature and culture: Surveys of medieval to contemporary German literature, theatre and film studies, and cultural history courses that situate literary works within social contexts.
• Linguistics foundation: Introductory linguistics, phonetics, syntax, sociolinguistics, and research methods for language analysis.
• Applied topics: Translation and interpretation practice, German for specific purposes (business, tourism, education), and language pedagogy for students interested in teaching.
• Capstone and experiential learning: Senior seminar or research project, practicum or internship, and opportunities for study abroad in German-speaking countries or short-term immersion programs.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical admissions materials include a completed application, official secondary school transcripts, and a personal statement. Doane considers academic preparation in languages and humanities; successful applicants often have taken prior language or literature courses.

Additional requirements or recommendations may include letters of recommendation and any results from placement assessments to determine appropriate beginning level in German. Transfer students should supply college transcripts and a summary of prior language coursework. Non-native English speakers may need to demonstrate English proficiency according to university-wide policies.

Career prospects

Graduates leave the programme prepared for careers that value communication, cultural literacy and analytical skills. Common paths include teaching and education (including secondary teaching certification where applicable), translation and interpretation, international business and trade, tourism and hospitality, public service and diplomacy, and publishing or media roles that require strong language skills.

Alumni also pursue graduate study in linguistics, literature, applied linguistics, language teaching (TESOL), translation studies, law, or international relations. The programme’s emphasis on research, internship experience and study abroad helps students build portfolios and practical experience attractive to employers and graduate programmes.

Why study at Doane University

Doane’s small liberal arts environment provides close faculty mentoring and small class sizes, which support sustained language practice and individualized feedback on speaking and writing. The university emphasises experiential learning, allowing students to combine classroom study with internships, community-based language work and independent research projects.

Students benefit from Doane’s commitment to global and interdisciplinary education, with opportunities to study abroad or participate in exchange programmes with German-speaking institutions. The department’s advising helps students customise the degree for career goals—whether teacher preparation, translation, international business, or advanced study—while Doane’s campus community fosters cross-disciplinary collaboration and leadership development.