German BA (Hons)
San Francisco State University, United States
Bachelor of Arts in German
San Francisco State University
German Language, Literature & Culture
Program Overview: BA in German at San Francisco State University
The Bachelor of Arts in German at San Francisco State University offers a wide range of courses designed to meet the diverse needs of today's student population. The undergraduate curriculum includes coursework in language, literature, linguistics, and culture, with additional options in translation and German for business.
The German program places great importance on small-sized participatory classes that maximize opportunities to communicate in German. Innovative teaching methods, films, multimedia, and online materials enhance classroom interaction, while excellent computer facilities and a Foreign Language Multimedia Lab provide further academic support.
The curriculum is designed to enable students to develop language proficiency in accordance with the nationally recognized ACTFL standards. Students are encouraged to study abroad through CSU International Programs at universities such as Universitat Tubingen and Universitat Heidelberg, gaining immersion experience while earning credits toward graduation.
Key Program Highlights
- 44 total units in the major including 30 units of upper-division coursework covering language, literature, linguistics, and culture
- Small participatory classes designed to maximize German-language communication and interaction
- Study abroad opportunities in Germany through CSU International Programs with up to 31 units applicable to the major
- Complementary Studies requirement of 12 units encouraging interdisciplinary learning across related fields
Curriculum & Modules
The German major requires 120 total units for graduation, with a minimum of 44 units in the major. The program includes 14 units of lower-division prerequisites and 30 units of upper-division coursework, along with 12 units of Complementary Studies in related disciplines.
First and Second Semester German (GER 101 & GER 102)
6 UnitsFoundation courses in listening, speaking, reading, and writing German. GER 101 is intended for true beginners, with GER 102 continuing skill development at the elementary level.
Intermediate German Conversation & Intermediate German (GER 206 & GER 207)
6 UnitsIntensive listening and speaking practice through group discussions, texts, videos, skits, and presentations. GER 207 develops reading, writing, and speaking at the intermediate level with group projects on contemporary issues.
Advanced Conversation and Composition (GER 301)
3 UnitsReview of structure and speech patterns with compositions, oral presentations, and group discussions based on short stories, newspaper articles, contemporary films, and other cultural topics.
Advanced Grammar and Composition (GER 305)
3 UnitsStudy, review, and communicative practice of grammar structures in the context of real-world language tasks and projects. Builds advanced written and oral competency.
German Literature and Culture Courses (Upper Division)
12 UnitsUpper-division electives exploring German literary traditions, cultural studies, and intellectual history. Topics include the German novella, 19th and 20th century plays, and mobility, travel, and identity in German-speaking cultures.
Complementary Studies
12 UnitsCourses outside the GER prefix chosen from four possible routes: a second foreign language, study abroad coursework, a second major or minor, or related disciplines such as linguistics, philosophy, history, or European studies.
Elective Options
Admission Requirements
Admission to the BA in German at San Francisco State University is open to both domestic and international applicants. All applications and inquiries are handled through Uni4Edu, which will guide you through the entire process from document preparation to enrollment.
Academic Requirements
- High School DiplomaCompletion of secondary education equivalent to a US high school diploma with college preparatory coursework (A-G requirements)
- GPA RequirementMinimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale for international freshman applicants
- Prerequisite Language ProficiencyUp to 14 units of prerequisite German coursework or demonstrated language proficiency required to begin upper-division major work
- Standardized TestsACT/SAT examinations are no longer used in determining admission eligibility at CSU campuses
- Full-time EnrollmentInternational students on F-1 visas must enroll full-time in at least 12 units per semester
English Language Requirements
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 61 (some programs may require higher)
- IELTSMinimum overall score of 6.0
- English-Medium Education WaiverStudents who completed three years of full-time study at an English-medium institution may be exempt from TOEFL/IELTS
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
While San Francisco State University does not offer federal or state financial aid to international students, there are scholarship opportunities and funding options that may be available. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on funding your studies.
SFSU International Student Scholarship
Merit-based scholarships may be available for international students demonstrating strong academic performance. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for eligible awards.
CSU Study Abroad Financial Support
Students participating in CSU International Programs in Germany may be eligible for study abroad grants and financial support to offset costs of overseas study.
External Scholarships for German Studies
Varies by organizationOrganizations such as DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) and the Goethe-Institut offer scholarships for students of German language and culture. Uni4Edu can assist you in exploring these external funding opportunities.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
A degree in German opens doors to careers in international business, diplomacy, translation, education, and cultural organizations. Germany is the largest economy in Europe, and proficiency in German provides a competitive advantage in many professional fields. Many SFSU German graduates pursue double majors in complementary fields such as international relations, business, or communication studies.
Potential Career Paths
Types of Employers
Rankings & Recognition
San Francisco State University is a well-established public university within the California State University system, recognized for its diverse campus community, commitment to social mobility, and strong emphasis on community engagement. SFSU has earned the 2026 Carnegie Elective Classification for Community Engagement and received 4.5 out of 5 stars in Money Magazine's Best Colleges 2025 rankings.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Arts & Humanities | QS World Rankings | Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
| Modern Languages | QS World Rankings | Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
| Social Sciences | U.S. News & World Report | Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
| Education | U.S. News & World Report | Contact Uni4Edu for current data |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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