
Arabic and German
Overview
The Arabic and German BA (Hons) course is a unique programme that teaches languages that are important for understanding Middle Eastern society (especially the Islamic world) and German culture.
In the Arabic language, the course will help students to learn about Islamic thought, Arabic culture and Middle Eastern history. In the German language, the course allows students to read German literature or explore history, politics, philosophy, cinema, or specialised uses of language fluently.
This outstanding joint honours degree programme enables you to cover the core modules on each Single Honours course, but you will study fewer optional and discovery modules to allow you to make equal space for both subjects.
Year one features a foundational module linking your Arabic and German studies, while your final year culminates in a substantial research project drawing on the combined knowledge and skills acquired throughout the programme.
This structured progression ensures that you integrate your learning and apply it to advanced academic work.
By doing this course, you will develop an advanced understanding of two subjects, including fluency in a major world language.
In addition to reflecting the fact that you are intellectually flexible, your degree will also provide you with a unique set of professionally valued skills across two disciplines.
Objectives
- Achieve advanced proficiency in Arabic and German language skills.
- Develop an understanding of Arabic and German literature, histories, and cultures.
- Enhance critical thinking and analytical skills through language, literature, and cultural studies.
- Cultivate intercultural communication skills and awareness.
- Prepare for careers in translation, interpreting, international relations, education, etc.
Prerequisites
- Typically, A-levels (or equivalent) in German are required.
- Prior knowledge of Arabic is often beneficial but not always essential.
- A genuine passion for languages and cultures is a must.
Curriculum Outline
- Arabic Language (Modern Standard Arabic and potentially dialects)
- German Language
- Arabic Literature and Culture
- German Literature and Culture
- History of Arabic-Speaking Regions
- History of German-Speaking Regions
- Translation Studies
- Intercultural Communication
- Linguistics
Teaching Method
- Formal Lectures
- Seminars
- Language Classes
- Tutorials
- Small-group work
- Workshops
- Independent study
Modules
- Arabic Language
- Arabic Language
- German Language
- German Language
- German Language
- History and Politics of the Middle East and North Africa
- Introduction to German Linguistics
- Revolution and Reaction in German Culture
- Arabic Language
- Arabic Language
- German Language
- German Language
- Introduction to Postcolonial Arabic Literature
- Arabic and German
- Arabic Language
- German Language
- Media and Business Arabic
Assessment Methods
- Written examinations
- Oral examinations
- Coursework
- Practical assessment
- Presentation
Course Duration
The course duration of this programme may vary depending on the country and universities but in the UK, it takes about 04 years to complete.
Facilities
When considering facilities for an "Arabic and German BA (Hons)" programme in UK universities, you'll find a blend of resources tailored to language learning, cultural studies, and general academic support. Here's a breakdown:
Language-Specific Facilities:
- Language Laboratories
- Interactive software
- Audio-visual equipment
- Recording facilities
- Online language learning platforms
- Interactive exercises
- Multimedia content
- Arabic and German literature
- Dictionaries
- Grammar resources
- Cultural materials
- Dedicated spaces equipped with translation software
- Resources for practical translation exercises
Cultural and Academic Facilities:
- Access to cultural materials
- Films, music, and other resources to use
- Screening Rooms for viewing and analysing
- Smaller seminar rooms for in-depth discussions and presentations
- A larger space lecture theatres, for lectures and presentations
- Software for language learning, translation, and research
- The office provides support and guidance for study abroad
- Organises cultural events, language exchange sessions, and social gatherings
- Rare or historical texts library archives
- Simulate cultural experiences through virtual reality labs
General University Facilities:
- Student common rooms
- Online learning platforms
- Audio-visual equipment
- Recording studios
- Dedicated staff offices
- Collaboration spaces
Career Pathways
A UK university degree in Arabic and German BA (Hons) enables a wide variety of career pathways globally, opening doors to the distinctive combination of language skills, cultural knowledge and analytical skills. Here are some of the main career pathways:
Language and Communication Focused:
- Translator
- Interpreter
- Linguist
- Language Specialist
- Foreign Correspondent/Journalist
- Content Localisation Specialist
- Technical Translator
International Relations and Cultural Sectors:
- Diplomat
- International Relations Officer
- Cultural Consultant
- Cultural Liaison
- NGO Worker
- Government Advisor
Business and Commerce:
- International Business Professional
- Marketing and Communications (International Focus)
- Export/Import Specialist
- Business Development Manager (International Markets)
Education and Academia:
- Teacher
- Lecturer (Languages/Culture)
- Researcher (Linguistics/Culture)
Other Potential Paths:
- Tourism Industry Professional
- Publishing Industry Professional
- Archivist/Librarian
- Digital Marketing (Multilingual)
Fees and Fundings
Tuition fees range in between £17500 - £25000 per year and may vary depending on the institution.
Scholarships, grants, and financial opportunities are available.
Government loan aid is available.
Entry Requirements
- A-level standard offer: ABB (A-level in German).
- Typical contextual offer: BBB (A-level in German).
- 5 GCSEs passed including English at grade 4/C.
- IELTS score of 6.0 to 6.5 overall, with no component score below 5.5.
Field Work and Internships
The "Arabic and German BA (Hons)" course in UK universities places a significant priority on practical and real-world experience. Here's a breakdown:
Potential Internships:
- Translation and Interpreting: Internships with translation agencies or organisations requiring multilingual communication.
- Cultural Institutions: Opportunities to work with museums, cultural centres, or arts organisations.
- Government and NGOs: Placements with organisations dealing with international relations or development.
Cultural Enrichment Activities:
- Field Trips: Universities may organise trips to cultural events, museums, or historical sites.
- Cultural Events: Participation in cultural festivals, film screenings, or language exchange programmes.
- Guest Lectures: Presentations by experts on Arabic and German culture, politics, or history.
Certifications
- Goethe-Zertifikat (Various Levels)
- TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache)
- DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang)
- Arabic Language Proficiency Tests (Various Institutions)
- ATA (American Translators Association) Certification
- ITI (Institute of Translation & Interpreting) Membership/Certification (UK)
- CIOL (Chartered Institute of Linguists) Qualifications (UK)
- Certified Court Interpreter (Various Countries)
- Certified Medical Interpreter (Various Countries)
- Translation Software Certifications (e.g., SDL Trados)
- Interpreting Software Certifications
- International Business Certifications
- Cultural Competency Certifications
- Diplomatic Service Exams (Various Countries)
- Journalism Certifications
- Public Relations Certifications
- Marketing Certifications (International Focus)
- Travel and Tourism Certifications
- Library and Information Science Certifications
- Archival Studies Certifications
- Museum Studies Certifications
- Digital Marketing Certifications (Multilingual)
- Content Localization Certifications
- Linguistics Certifications (Specialized Areas)
- International Trade Certifications
- Foreign Service Officer Tests
- United Nations Language Proficiency Exams
Intakes
Typically, in the UK, the intakes takes twice a year (fall and spring), but may vary like:
- Fall (September/October)
- Spring (January/February)
- Summer (May/June)
Frequently asked questions
This programme offers a comprehensive study of Arabic and German languages, literatures, and cultures, preparing students for global careers by developing advanced language proficiency and intercultural understanding.