We are one of the largest departments for the study of language in the country and one of the most highly rated in the world (3rd for Linguistics in the QS World Rankings, 2025). This four-year combined degree is provided by our School of Global Affairs and the Department of Linguistics and English Language. A year abroad gives you a unique opportunity to be immersed in the language and culture. You don’t need to have studied German before as we offer an Intensive course for beginners. In German Studies we aim to help you become truly fluent. Taking Linguistics in tandem with German Studies will give you increased awareness of the grammar of the language and allow you to really understand the structure of both English, German, and a wide range of other languages from around the world. Your first and second years include a range of core and optional modules. You can see examples in the Course Structure section below. Your third year living abroad will give you the opportunity to deepen your intercultural sensitivity and your command of the language. You can study at a partner university or carry out a work placement and practice your language skills in a real-world context. Staff members within the department will work with you to ensure that you are fully equipped before embarking on your year in a German-speaking country. On your return to Lancaster, your fourth year allows you to develop your German to Common European Framework of Reference for Languages C1/C2 levels, and you can specialise in particular fields of study. You could also choose to complete a dissertation on a topic you would like to explore in-depth. Beginners Languages Studying a language from beginners level is somewhat intense in nature so we only allow students to study one language from beginners level. Please bear this in mind when looking at our first year module options. If you apply to study a degree with a language from beginners level, your optional modules will only include higher level languages and modules in other subject areas.