Joint Master: Transnational German Studies

Experiencing and Understanding Europe The joint Master's programme in Transnational German Studies is a course of study for those keen to understand Europe anew – as an idea, the past of which can be explored. This programme is for students with an interest in literary studies and cultural history who would like to trace the lines connecting the humanities in the European community; it is a course for those who want to broaden their horizons. Four Semesters – Four Countries – Joint Master's Degree In each of the four semesters leading to the joint Master's degree, students live in and experience a different European country and a different European university: a coordinated study programme awaits them at the universities of Porto, Luxembourg, Mainz and Palermo. The students are registered as regular students at all four universities for all four semesters (application and enrolment are handled by the University of Porto). After successfully completing the programme, each student receives a joint MA diploma from all four universities – and thus receives four European Master's degrees in one. Independently but in Accompaniment In the study trajectory of the Transnational German Studies programme, which connects four European universities, the intellectual history of Europe is explored in both theoretical and concrete ways. By following the common thread of German Studies back from its common European roots in the Middle Ages to the present day, a small group of international students will have new academic experiences together in four different countries. In addition to networking with their fellow students, all participants are accompanied individually by a mentor from the professional world. In regular conversations, personal goals that point beyond the degree course can be considered. The coordinators at the four universities, each of whom work specifically for this course, directly help to organise places in student residences or in private homes and are available for individual support and advice on all questions of everyday life. The Past as Part of Your Own Future In each semester, this course in the humanities also provides the students with guidance about their future careers. In this way, by looking into the history and the present of literature and culture, students can also look forward: the study programme creates diverse opportunities on how to get to know the expectations of the job market and to acquire specific skills while studying. Representatives of various professional fields offer insights into future work areas. Subject-related practical projects supported by partners from outside the university provide an opportunity to gain experience that will be useful for later professional life. The acquisition of specialist knowledge and skills helps to shape career paths during the course of studies.