In Europe, knowing German opens many different doors. What kinds of doors? Whether you study language for personal satisfaction or professional purposes, German has a great deal to offer. German is one of the most commonly used languages on the Internet and for the publication of important research in both the natural sciences and the humanities.

Business

If your interest in language study is primarily career-oriented, consider the fact that the German-speaking countries represent the largest single market in Europe, and the German economy is the fourth largest in the world. The central bank for the European Union is located in Frankfurt. Germany is the most important European trading partner of the United States and Connecticut’s third largest trading partner. There are over 1,300 American firms with branches in German-speaking countries, and there are over 1,100 German firms with branches in the US. In fact, in Connecticut alone there are over 100 (see also our EUROBIZ program).

Chemistry

For more than a century, Germany has been a world leader in chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and precision manufacturing.

Engineering

Some of the most important engineering projects emerge from German companies and universities, making Germany an exciting place to visit as a budding engineer (see also our EUROTECH program).

Environment

Germany has become a world leader in environmental engineering, pollution prevention, sustainability, and other initiatives and inventions concerning climate control. The University of Freiburg, a member in our Connecticut-Baden-Württemberg exchange program, is a world leader in solar energy and other areas of alternative energies

Humanities

Through German, you gain access to centuries of accomplishments in literature, art, design, music, theater, history and philosophy. Knowledge of German can give you special insight when you study history, the development of cultures and societies, and the emergence of political or intellectual movements in Europe.

 

Whether you ultimately work in Europe, travel, or just enjoy an occasional German film, the study of the language and cultures of the German-speaking countries will provide intellectual stimulation and pleasure; a great deal of interdisciplinary and linguistic access to different kinds of knowledge and debate; and to international sources both for your career and other interests; it will also offer you a new vantage point from which to view U.S. American life and cultures and prepare you to live, work, and learn beyond a national framework.