German Literacy (German Languages and Literatures) Major Subject (Primary Schools)

Academic Foundation
The teacher training programmes offer a comprehensive exploration of the German language and literature in all their contemporary and historical diversity. The programmes introduce students to the disciplinary sub-fields of linguistics and literary studies, as well as to medieval studies for Secondary Levels I and II, and impart fundamental subject-specific and methodological knowledge. Building on this foundation, students engage with concepts and issues relating to subject-specific teaching methodology. They acquire knowledge of methods and theories from the fields of literary studies, media studies, linguistics and subject-specific teaching methodology, enabling them to apply this knowledge in a way that is tailored to their professional field.

Practical training
Through the combination of subject-specific and subject-didactic expertise, students acquire key competences for roles in the school sector and within the cultural studies job market. Within the framework of research-based learning, a critical and reflective approach is fostered through the integration of subject-specific didactic theories, empirical findings and the analysis of authentic teaching situations and materials. This enables students to make pedagogically sound decisions in an increasingly linguistically and culturally diverse school environment.

Interdisciplinary approaches
The combination of elements from linguistics, literary studies, media studies, digital studies and subject-specific pedagogy opens up an interdisciplinary perspective on the subjects of language and literature. This versatility fosters an understanding of different media and their relevance in education. It provides an understanding of the specific characteristics of spoken and written language and how they are taught. Furthermore, the programme examines a variety of literary texts and media, their nature and their potential for raising awareness of various topics of individual, social and cultural significance.

Internationalisation
The teacher training programmes place great emphasis on international perspectives and collaborations, giving students the opportunity to undertake study periods abroad – for example, through the Erasmus programme and other partnerships – and to broaden their skills in an international context. Furthermore, students on the programme benefit from the presence of international students and the resulting exchange, in that they develop intercultural skills and sensitivity, enabling them to navigate a globalised environment, as well as international academic and professional contexts, with ease even after completing their studies.

Personalised support
Students benefit from personalised support from teaching staff, which enables close guidance throughout their studies. This supports their personal and academic development and fosters a trusting learning environment. This close support ensures that the content of teaching can be linked to students’ individual practical projects and research interests. Students develop into independent individuals who are well prepared to meet the complex demands of the modern labour market.

There are good prospects for securing a teaching post, particularly in primary schools, secondary schools (including Hauptschule, Realschule, Sekundarschule and Gesamtschule), as well as in primary schools with or without integrated special educational needs provision. Nevertheless, it is important to bear in mind that you will be teaching the same subject matter for a long time. You should therefore take an interest in what you teach and study subjects that you are passionate about. It is also essential to consider the age of the pupils in the respective school types and the associated requirements in terms of subject-specific, subject-didactic and pedagogical content when making your decision.

Access to the Bachelor programme is granted to those who have a university entrance qualification suitable for Germany (e. g. German ‘Abitur’).

Special conditions apply to applicants with a foreign certificate of education.

Likewise, special conditions apply to those qualified in vocational education and training.

Course start

Studies can be commenced in both winter and summer semesters. Courses are targeted to commencing studies in winter semester. Student counselling to plan the course of studies is recommended.

Length and scope of studies

The standard period of studies is 6 semesters. Information on studying part time.

The studies Major Subject (Primary Schools) German Literacy comprise 60 credit points.

Find out about the academic structure model and note the possible combinations.

The study places are not subject to any admission restrictions (numerus clausus). Nevertheless, you need to apply within the currently applicable application deadlines. Afterwards, however, you can submit your application for enrolment directly in the application and status portal, provided that you meet the access requirements.

Step by step to a bachelor programme without NC

Please note that Education Sciences is always a compulsory component of a degree programme with a teaching option (see study structure model).

Special conditions apply to applicants with a foreign certificate of education.

Likewise, special conditions apply to those qualified in vocational education and training.

Application deadline reminder

To the application portal

You will find the programme of lectures for this course in the eKVV.

An overview of the introductory and information events is provided by the central student counselling services.