German Studies
Study in Berlin. Work in Vienna. Live in Zurich. Speak German.
AI can produce flawless German. It cannot be the person someone comes to trust. That happens through human connection. Speak German yourself and you can read a room, build a relationship, and come to see the world — and yourself — from where someone else stands. German Studies at SDSU teaches the language and the cultures it belongs to. German can enhance any major, and it's where international careers begin.
No German yet? Already fluent?
Either way, you'll find a place here. Our courses welcome true beginners, students who studied German in school, students who grew up with it at home, and anyone who picked it up somewhere else along the way. If you already know some German, a short placement test helps us find the right course to start you in. Please contact the faculty advisor, Dr. Rebien, at [email protected] for more information.
Why choose SDSU?
We offer small, immersive classes and a supportive environment, enabling you to develop language skills quickly while preparing for global careers and study abroad experiences.
At a large research university, our German program offers something rare: a close-knit community where students and faculty know one another well. Small, immersive classes mean you build language skills quickly and form lasting connections with peers who share your interests.
Our students receive personal mentorship at every stage of their academic journey, from choosing courses and planning study abroad to applying for fellowships, graduate programs, and careers. We work with you individually to help you make the most of your time at SDSU and prepare for what comes next.
Want more than a minor? Pursue advanced German through CINTS.
Students seeking the equivalent of a German major—whether to reach advanced proficiency, prepare for graduate study, or pursue a K-12 teaching career—can do so through SDSU's Comparative International Studies (CINTS) major by selecting the advanced language training track for German. CINTS combines deep language study with coursework in international affairs, culture, and global systems, giving you both the linguistic depth and interdisciplinary breadth that employers and graduate programs value.
Future German teachers
California is experiencing an acute shortage of credentialed language teachers, making this an especially strong moment to pursue K-12 German teaching. The CINTS advanced track prepares you for credential programs and a career in high demand.
Enhance your degree with German Studies
Student Opportunities
SDSU German Club
Open to all students on campus with an interest in German. For more information, contact faculty advisor, Christine Guzman, at [email protected].
German Honor Society
SDSU's chapter of Delta Phi Alpha welcomes membership applications. For more information, contact the faculty advisor, Kristin Rebien, at [email protected].
Advising
Kristin Rebien, Program Director/Advisor
Office: SH 220B
Email: [email protected]
Important Links
Class Schedule | SDSU Catalog | Academic Calendar | Canvas
