Overview

The BA (Hons) Linguistics with German at the University of York combines the scientific study of language with advanced exploration of German language and culture. Students examine how languages are structured, acquired and used while developing their German language skills and understanding of German-speaking societies and cultural contexts.

What You'll Learn

• Core areas of linguistics, including phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics and pragmatics.

• The relationship between language, society, identity and communication.

• Cognitive processes involved in language learning, production and understanding.

• Linguistic variation and the ways languages develop and change over time.

• German language skills across written, spoken, reading and listening contexts.

• German literature, culture, history and society through relevant texts and materials.

• Comparative perspectives on German and other languages.

• Linguistic and language-focused research methods, critical analysis and academic communication.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will be able to analyse the structure and use of language using appropriate linguistic concepts and methods. They will understand how linguistic patterns relate to cognitive, social and cultural factors and be able to evaluate different explanations of language behaviour and development. Students will also demonstrate improved competence in German and a deeper understanding of German-speaking cultural and historical contexts. They will develop the ability to collect and analyse linguistic information, conduct independent research and construct evidence-based arguments. The course further enables students to compare languages and perspectives critically while communicating complex linguistic and cultural ideas clearly in written and spoken forms.