Intercultural German Studies: Germany — China (MA)

The study programme imparts theoretical and methodological knowledge in linguistic and literary studies emphasising intercultural and cross-cultural comparative aspects. Each of the participating universities has its own study focus, concerning both academic and specific professional training, reflecting the particular educational aims and traditions of the respective German studies departments. Thus the programme is tailored to the corresponding professional fields in Germany and China. The focal point at the University of Göttingen lies upon "Cultures in Contact" with special courses in translation and cultural transfer, studies on cultural themes and comparison. The study specialisation at Nanjing University concentrates on "Cultures of Education and Knowledge". It mainly questions the comparison of educational concepts, German and Chinese scientific communication and models of multilingual and intercultural learning scenarios. The key topic at Beijing Foreign Studies University is "Translating Cultures of Law and Business" with a specialisation on interpretation and modes of intercultural business communication. The structure of the study programme is modular. Practically relevant key competences such as the consolidation of foreign language skills, occupationally relevant work placements/internships and courses in economics or politics complement the programme. The course is conceived as a German-Chinese dual degree programme and thus offers students the opportunity to complete a structured programme of study at the University of Göttingen and one of the two partner universities. The study concept envisages Chinese and German students completing their studies together to the greatest possible extent and from the beginning of their studies entering into an intercultural study situation, working and learning cross-culturally in teams and tandems. In order to implement this concept, the programme is divided into two study phases. All students complete the first year of study together at the University of Göttingen. All students complete the second year of study in China, whereby an equal number of Göttingen students continue their studies at the partner universities in Nanjing and Beijing, respectively. The Nanjing and Beijing students return to their own university. The Göttingen students choose one of the partner universities, where they complete the second study year (third and fourth semesters). The structure of the course of study and the curriculum integrate the structural provisions of the German and Chinese higher education systems. They thereby combine a common subject area as a specific basis, compulsory for all students, with an academic and job-oriented differentiation of the various study focuses at the participating higher education institutions. PDF Download