Study Newer Philologies Abroad

Study Newer Philologies Abroad

Philology – the word comes from the Greek words “philos” and “logos”. “Philos” means “the friend” in German, while “logos” can be translated as “the word” or “speaking”. A philologist is nothing more than a friend of words or language. Accordingly, the study of philology is also about languages.

On the one hand, there is Classical Philology , which deals with “dead languages” such as Latin and ancient Greek. On the other hand, we know modern philology. It is dedicated to the “living languages” that people in the world speak today.

Degree courses in the field of modern philology

According to, today more than 6,000 languages ​​are spoken on our planet. Many different subjects are therefore grouped under the heading of Modern Philology . There is not a course for every language in the world, but the spectrum of languages ​​offered is wide: it ranges from German and English to Romance languages ​​such as Italian, Spanish or French to Asian or Slavic languages.

The corresponding programs call themselves German , English / American Studies , Romance Studies , Chinese Studies , Japanese Studies or Slavic Studies . In these subjects, students take a closer look at the languages ​​and cultures of individual countries . The prerequisite for this is, of course, to have a good command of the national language. Language practice is therefore an important part of all courses.

Course content

In subjects such as Romance Studies, Sinology or Slavic Studies, which include many different languages, students first decide on one or two Romance, Asian or Slavic languages . These are the focus of the further course of study. In practical language exercises, the students gradually expand their vocabulary, learn grammar and practice written and oral use of the chosen language. In courses on linguistics or linguistics, they examine the language more closely. For example, how are individual sounds formed in the mouth or throat? How have words changed over the centuries?

Another important part of most courses is literary studies . The students get to know the most important literary historical epochs and authors of the countries they have chosen. They analyze various literary genres, such as poetry and prose, and also take a close look at the historical background. In cultural studies , students are made familiar with other cultural aspects of the respective country. Topics are, for example, history , sociology , economics , politics or religion . The individual universities set very different priorities.

What are the benefits of a master’s degree in modern philology?

Anyone who would like to qualify for management positions or a scientific career should follow a bachelor’s degree with a master’s degree. This offers the opportunity to specialize in one of the sub-areas of linguistics, cultural studies or literary studies. Some languages ​​can also be studied as part of a teacher training course . In this case, the students have to follow up with a master’s degree with a didactic and pedagogical focus.

Advantages of the two-subject bachelor’s degree

Those who do not study to become a teacher usually have the opportunity to choose another subject as part of a two-subject bachelor’s degree and thus give the course a further profile. The combination options are very different depending on the university. Popular secondary subjects are economics, political science or ethnology .

Requirements for studying in the field of modern philologies

To study in the field of modern philology, a certain language ability is required in any case . English / American and Romance studies students must already have knowledge of English, Spanish or French at the start of their studies. No language skills are required in subjects such as Sinology, Japanese Studies or Slavic Studies. Applicants should be aware, however, that learning one or two completely different languages ​​takes a lot of time.

Since the specialist literature is often written in English or French, students are also expected to have some knowledge of English and / or French in these subjects. In addition, the Latinum is a prerequisite for many courses . Those who have not already acquired this in school can do it in the first semesters at the university. However, this means a high additional learning effort. Apart from the language, the students should also be able to get enthusiastic about the culture and literature of the country they have chosen .

Professions for philologists

About half of all German, English and Romance studies students want to become teachers . Sinology and Slavic studies can now also be studied to become a teacher. After completing their master’s degree, the teaching qualifications usually go on to an 18 to 24-month legal traineeship and then teach as foreign language teachers at the schools.

For everyone else, the professional career is less clearly specified. In many cases , the future profession depends on the second subject . For example, if you combine Sinology with economics, you have a good chance of working in companies that operate in Asia. Those who, on the other hand, have chosen a minor in cultural or social sciences can find a job in museums, libraries , archives or other cultural institutions.

Other popular areas of work for philologists are:

  • journalism
  • publishing
  • the tourism industry
  • adult education
  • advertising
  • public relation
  • international organizations and NGOs

Master’s graduates in particular can also embark on an academic career . A doctorate is usually required for this.

Study abroad in the field of modern philologies – a must!

One or two semesters abroad are compulsory for philology students . They give students the opportunity to improve their language skills and get to know the culture of the respective country up close. In the case of later applications, the intercultural skills that students acquire during a stay abroad are also welcome. In addition, they have the opportunity to build up an international network and sharpen their scientific profile at an early stage .

Study Newer Philologies

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