BA in German in Normal United States | Illinois State University

The German studies program provides classes covering literature, culture, and language in an environment that encourages regular, casual interactions between students, faculty, and visiting scholars from Germany. Learners can explore works by iconic authors from Goethe to Kafka, analyze folk tales or contemporary song lyrics, and stay informed about current EU affairs. Both honors candidates and casual learners have examined historical correspondence from 19th-century German emigrants, while weekly social events foster connections between local students and their German counterparts. As the EU's most pivotal nation, Germany's language serves as the most commonly spoken native tongue within this influential union. While often considered challenging, German shares significant linguistic roots with English. Proficiency in German opens doors to philosophy, history, musicology, literary studies, and various disciplines. For business professionals focusing on Europe, German fluency proves particularly valuable. This language extends beyond Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, maintaining historical importance as a common language in eastern regions. German study unlocks diverse academic and professional opportunities. While some pursue it for family heritage reasons, others select German for its rich expressive and intellectual dimensions.