Willkommen, Welcome, Kia Ora

In today's world of rapid and effortless international communications, it is more important than ever that we understand each others' languages and cultures.

German is of great value for business, research and cultural transfer. It is the most widely spoken language in the European Union, and one of the top three international research and internet languages.

A substantial number of German companies are actively engaged in New Zealand, and German tourists to New Zealand make up the largest contingent from continental European countries. German speaking countries are in the technological and economic vanguard of many areas of the automotive industry, the air and space industry and of technologies protecting the natural environment. Germany has a rich cultural heritage and a diverse and vibrant contemporary culture. In these days of the diminishing significance of physical geography, it is more important than ever for New Zealand to collaborate with forward-looking partners in the global village.

Why Study German at the University Of Waikato?

German at Waikato is characterised by its innovative approach. Our students, while studying language and literature, combine these with studies on European Integration and acquire specific skills relevant to areas such as commerce, the culture industries and governmental and non-governmental organisations.

The people who teach in our Programme are enthusiasts and experts alike, and we enjoy working with students in an informal and friendly atmosphere. Students receive careful advice on courses and study and career planning is considered central.

Our students can choose from a range of study abroad and work placement arrangements in Germany, e.g. at our partner universities at Bremen and Osnabrück. There are also opportunities to work as teaching assistants at German schools. All these activities are especially useful as extensions to Waikato's unique study opportunities, such as the International Management Programme.  

Study German or combine German with other subjects and you'll get a degree that really travels