The certificate in German, the first language certificate ever offered at UW–Madison, gives students the opportunity to develop proficiency in the language by requiring that all courses taken to fulfill it must be at the intermediate and advanced levels and taught in German. It complements majors in other subjects across the university and strengthens the applications of students who intend to pursue careers or graduate study in areas where knowledge of German is useful. The certificate in German is open to all undergraduate students, and to University Special students.
How to Get in
To declare the Certificate in German, email or make an appointment with the undergraduate advisor for the program.
Students declared in the German major are not eligible to declare the Certificate in German.
Requirements
The certificate requires 15 total credits, 9 credits in Intermediate German and 6 credits in Advanced German courses.
Intermediate German
Complete one of the following sequences:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| GERMAN 249 & GERMAN 258 & GERMAN 262 | Intermediate German - Speaking and Listening and Intermediate German-Reading and Intermediate German-Writing | 9 |
| GERMAN 249 & GERMAN 285 | Intermediate German - Speaking and Listening and Intermediate Intensive (Honors) German: Language, Culture, Texts | 9 |
Advanced German
Complete at least two courses:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| GERMAN 305 | Literatur des 20. und 21. Jahrhunderts | 3-4 |
| GERMAN 337 | Advanced Composition & Conversation | 3-4 |
| GERMAN 351 | Introduction to German Linguistics | 3-4 |
| GERMAN 352 | Topics in German Linguistics | 3-4 |
| GERMAN 362 | Topics in German Literature | 3-4 |
| GERMAN 367 | Study Abroad in German Literature | 2-5 |
| GERMAN 368 | Study Abroad in German Culture | 2-5 |
| GERMAN 369 | Study Abroad in German Linguistics | 2-5 |
| GERMAN 372 | Topics in German Culture | 3-4 |
| GERMAN 385 | Honors Seminar in German Literature | 3 |
| GERMAN 411 | Kultur des 20. und 21. Jahrhunderts | 3-4 |
Residence and Quality of Work
- Minimum 2.000 GPA on all courses eligible for the certificate
- At least 8 certificate credits must be completed in residence
Pass/fail courses do not apply to the certificate.
Undergraduate/Special Student Certificates
This certificate may be completed within the context of an undergraduate degree or as a Special student after an undergraduate degree has been awarded from any institution. The certificate may be completed in its entirety while enrolled as a Special student. Candidates are encouraged to contact the certificate coordinator to discuss course enrollment and the sequencing of certificate requirements.
Learning Outcomes
- to promote German proficiency in all major skill areas: speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
- to foster a deeper understanding of the cultures of the German-speaking world through courses taught in German.
Advising and Careers
For advising questions or to declare the German certificate, contact the undergraduate advisor.
Language placement tests are advised for any student with previous knowledge or experience with German. The German test is proctored through the University Placement Test program.
Any questions regarding placement in German may be directed to the undergraduate placement advisor Jeanne M. Schueller (jmschuel@wisc.edu).
For advising on careers related to languages, talk with the Language Directions Specialist in the Language Institute.
Study Abroad
Learning in Letters & Science emphasizes discovery, growth, understanding different perspectives, and challenging yourself, which makes studying abroad an excellent fit for many L&S students: studyabroad.wisc.edu
As a university with global influence, we have more than 300 study abroad programs in over 80 countries. These vary in length, academic focus, teaching format, language requirements, cost, and level of independence. There are many programs to complement every major and any year of college (including the final semester)—and all meet UW–Madison’s high academic standards. Students admitted into Letters & Science can even choose a short program in the summer before they start college or their whole first year: studyabroad.wisc.edu/launch. Talk with your academic advisor about how studying abroad might fit with your academic plan.
SuccessWorks
SuccessWorks at the College of Letters & Science helps you turn the academic skills learned in your classes into a fulfilling life, guiding you every step of the way to securing jobs, internships, or admission to graduate school.
Through one-on-one career advising, events, and resources, you can explore career options, build valuable internship and research experience, and connect with supportive alumni and employers who open doors of opportunity.
- What you can do with your major (Major Skills & Outcomes Sheets)
- Make a career advising appointment
- Learn about internships and internship funding
- Try “Jobs, Internships, & How to Get Them,” an interactive guide in Canvas for enrolled UW–Madison students