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Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz
Bachelor German 👥 Social Sciences

German Language and Literature Bachelor of Arts

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz 📍 Mainz · Rhineland-Palatinate

About the Program

Germanistik (German Language and Literature) is the study of German language and literature. At JGU, the subject is offered as a full subject covering both linguistics and literary studies. This diversity allows students to explore the entire spectrum and choose their personal focus from a wide range of options. Literary studies analyzes German-language works from older and newer periods. Students study both medieval literature and literature from the 16th century to the present. Linguistics deals with the German language in past and present - also in contrast to other languages. Historical linguistics explores how the German language has developed over time, including the study of different German dialects. In contrast, descriptive linguistics examines contemporary German language, including how we speak in different situations (everyday life, teaching, profession, internet). The program is structured in three phases: Introduction phase (1st and 2nd semester) covering basics of linguistics and literary studies; Development phase (3rd and 4th semester) focusing on systematic and historical foundations; and Specialization phase (5th and 6th semester) allowing students to focus on either linguistics or literary studies. A four-week internship is required for students taking Germanistik as their major subject.
▶ Show the original English text
Germanistik (German Language and Literature) is the study of German language and literature. At JGU, the subject is offered as a full subject covering both linguistics and literary studies. This diversity allows students to explore the entire spectrum and choose their personal focus from a wide range of options. Literary studies analyzes German-language works from older and newer periods. Students study both medieval literature and literature from the 16th century to the present. Linguistics deals with the German language in past and present - also in contrast to other languages. Historical linguistics explores how the German language has developed over time, including the study of different German dialects. In contrast, descriptive linguistics examines contemporary German language, including how we speak in different situations (everyday life, teaching, profession, internet). The program is structured in three phases: Introduction phase (1st and 2nd semester) covering basics of linguistics and literary studies; Development phase (3rd and 4th semester) focusing on systematic and historical foundations; and Specialization phase (5th and 6th semester) allowing students to focus on either linguistics or literary studies. A four-week internship is required for students taking Germanistik as their major subject.

💼 Which Professions Does This Program Open Up?

Related profession searches from Bundesagentur für Arbeit (BERUFENET) data:

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Subjects / Topic Areas

German Language and Literature

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💡 How do I apply to German Language and Literature Bachelor of Arts at Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz?

Most international applicants apply via uni-assist (document verification + APS for some countries). Prepare your secondary/Bachelor diploma, transcripts, language certificate (DSH/TestDaF or IELTS/TOEFL), motivation letter and CV. Non-EU students also need a Sperrkonto (~11,904 EUR/year) for the visa.

  1. Check requirements — Verify your degree is recognised + meet language/grade thresholds.
  2. Get language certificate — TestDaF / DSH for German programmes, IELTS / TOEFL for English.
  3. Submit via uni-assist (non-EU) — Document review + APS if your country requires it (China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, etc.).
  4. Apply directly or via uni portal — Some universities accept direct applications — check the official programme page.
  5. Open Sperrkonto + apply for visa — After admission, deposit 11,904 EUR, get health insurance, book embassy appointment.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about German Language and Literature Bachelor of Arts at Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz

Is German Language and Literature Bachelor of Arts at Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz taught in German or English? ▼

This Bachelor programme is taught in German. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.

How much does the German Language and Literature Bachelor of Arts programme cost? ▼

No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for German Language and Literature Bachelor of Arts at Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz? ▼

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (German), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).

When is the application deadline? ▼

Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.

Can I work in Germany while studying German Language and Literature Bachelor of Arts? ▼

Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.

How do I apply to Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz — directly or via uni-assist? ▼

Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.

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