German Studies

Around 100 million people speak German. It remains one of the most important languages of European culture and trade, native to three countries. It is the most widely spoken first language in the EU, as well as a recognised minority language in 9 European countries. It is also among the closest relatives of English.

At the University of Salford, dozens of students every year disprove the idea that German is either hard or complicated. This is a fascinating, infinitely flexible and ever-evolving language that can be studied on several degree courses. At undergraduate level, we offer two entry points – post A-level, where students have usually studied the language for four to five years – and ab initio – for those new to German or who have previously studied it to GCSE. Either point of entry enables you to encounter and explore contemporary Germany.

Courses

You can combine the study of German with translation and interpreting, and modern languages in combination with linguistics and/or politics modules, and English Language and linguistics (UWLP programme.)

At postgraduate level German is offered as one of the languages on the MA Translating and the MA Interpreting and Translating. Specialised translation classes deal with translation practice both into and out of German. The postgraduate interpreting options include conference interpreting (simultaneous and consecutive) and business and community interpreting.

The University has a Language Resource Centre, offering a variety of multimedia language-learning support materials, self study computer facilities and a state of the art conference suite used for interpreting teaching and practice.

Residence Abroad

Students spend either 6 months or an academic year in an German -speaking country (depending on the course) in a variety of academic or work placements.

Work placements include working in translation companies, teaching English as a foreign language, or working in administrative posts in companies and universities, etc. Salford has a long track record in working with world-class German companies, including Volkswagen, SAP, Deutsche Bank and Deutsche Bahn.

Research

Our staff and postgraduate research students are members of the Centre for Translation and Interpreting which draws together researchers in translation, linguistics and language studies within the School of Humanities, Languages & Social Sciences.

Members of staff have particular research expertise in the following areas:

  • German and Austrian studies
  • Translation theory and practice
  • Interpreting theory and practice

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