Bachelor of Arts - BA in German Fairfield University

The study of modern languages, as well as cultures and literatures in their original languages, is an intellectual experience that allows students to recognize and embrace language and cultural diversity. Language learning goes beyond the development of linguistic skills: it fosters creativity, tolerance, and inclusion, while promoting the development of critical thinking skills.

The Department of Modern Languages and Literatures stresses proficiency in all language skills, as well as the development of a cultural awareness, to prepare students for careers in business, communication, education, government, health sciences, social work, translation and interpreting, and related professions. Similarly, our varied coursework encourages the study of bi/multilingualism and bi/multiculturalism in the context of the United States and around the world. This work is locally and nationally crucial in the U.S. where there are over 300 languages spoken, and that, at least, 20% of the U.S. population speaks a language other than English.

The Department offers instruction in the following languages: Chinese, French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish. Currently, majors and minors are available in French, German, Italian and Spanish, and an individually-designed major is possible in Chinese.

In addition to its own programs, the Department of Modern Languages and Literatures participates in the International Studies program and the minor programs in Asian Studies, Communication Media Studies, Educational Studies, Health Studies, Italian Studies, Judaic Studies, Latin American and Caribbean Studies, Russian, East European, and Central Asian Studies, Peace and Justice Studies, Visual and Performing Arts, and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Additionally, many of our courses fulfill Magis Core Signature Elements. Select language courses may count toward those programs.

German majors also are encouraged to study abroad in Germany with Fairfield's programs in Berlin during their junior year or in the summer. The final course for the German major must be taken at Fairfield University.

Fairfield University is a private Jesuit university located in Fairfield, Connecticut. Founded by the Society of Jesus in 1942, the university is one of 28 member institutions of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. Its primary emphasis is on undergraduate education, but it also offers graduate programs, including professional degrees.

The university is organized into five schools and colleges: the Fairfield University College of Arts and Sciences, the Charles F. Dolan School of Business, the School of Engineering, the Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies, and the Graduate School of Education and Allied Professions.

Fairfield University's campus sits on a sprawling 200-acre property featuring manicured landscapes and views of the Long Island Sound. The school’s architecture is a blend of the modern and the historical, offering students a diverse and beautiful environment in which to study.

As a Jesuit institution, Fairfield places a high value on the personal, intellectual, and religious development of its students. It aims to cultivate critical thinking, ethical responsibility, and a commitment to community service. It offers a wide range of academic programs and extracurricular activities, making it a vibrant place of learning. Fairfield University is known for its strong programs in business, nursing, and liberal arts. It has consistently been ranked well by institutions such as U.S. News & World Report in its regional university rankings.