We specialize in the study of language, applied linguistics, literature, and film and visual culture.
Graduate programs
We offer three stimulating and challenging graduate programs that give students hands-on experience in teaching and research:
- MA in German - a one-year MA program that has thesis and non-thesis options
- Joint MA in Intercultural German Studies - a two-year MA program that is operated jointly with the Universität Mannheim
- PhD in German - a PhD program that equips you for careers in academe and beyond
Undergraduate programs
We offer courses in:
- German: Students learn the languages, history, cultural traditions, ideas, and accomplishments of the German-speaking areas of central Europe.
- Russian: We offer courses in Russian language as well as the culture of Russia and Eastern Europe. Students can earn a Minor in Russian and East European Studies.
- Croatian: We offer elementary courses in Croatian as well as courses in Croatian culture.
- Dutch: We offer elementary courses in Dutch as well as a Dutch culture course. Many courses in Dutch are offered online. Students can earn a Diploma in Dutch Language.
Meet the GSS faculty and staff
Waterloo Centre for German Studies (WCGS)
WCGS is a privately-endowed institute devoted to research on the language, culture, and civilization of German-speaking peoples. The Centre offers a wide range of educational and cultural activities for the academy and the broader community.
News and events
News
DAAD German Studies Funding Programs Webinar
DAAD – German Academic Exchange Service invites students and faculty from German language and/or culture programs to join them for an online information session about scholarship and grant programs of relevance to German language learners and those students whose research includes aspects of German culture, politics, economics or society.
Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 2 to 3pm EDT (11am to noon PDT)
To join the DAAD for this webinar, please register here.
Winter 2025 course in the spotlight: REES 240 - Mediterranean Cultures in their European Context
REES240 is an introductory survey of modern eastern Mediterranean societies with a special focus on Croatia and its neighbouring countries. The course examines the historical, cultural, economic, and socio-political interconnectedness of these societies, situated at the crossroads of both East/West and North/South communication and commerce. Students will discuss different perspectives on issues such as cultural diversity, gender relations, migration, and the place of the Mediterranean in the human imagination, developing critical thinking skills by analyzing relevant readings and engaging in independent research.
Readings and discussions are in English.
Photo credit: By Zysko serhii - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=72227145
Golden Boar Awards - Fall 2024
We proudly present the winners of our fall 2024 Golden Boar Awards!
