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Berlin and Beyond (GERM30024)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5Off Campus

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Overview

Availability(Quotas apply)
Winter Term - Off Campus
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Students in this subject will learn about German history, language and society in the modern era by visiting the capital, Berlin, and two locations in different German states. Students will gain insights into the richly regional nature of German history, identity and language. Key themes of the subject that will be explored through on-site visits and cultural experiences are: 1. German identity and the “idea” of Germany since the nineteenth century; 2. Life in the German Democratic Republic; 3. Migration in twentieth-century Germany. Students will engage with the complexities of German national history and identity from numerous perspectives via literature, film and music. While the heart of the visit is an extended stay in Berlin, which sits at the heart of so much of this complex history, students will come to understand that Germany is much more than its capital and that Germany itself is an idea always in the making.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • Identify key themes in German history and culture from the 18th century until the present day
  • Understand regional and diverse nature of German identity
  • Reflect upon the ways Germany as an idea is apparent in key historical sites in and beyond Berlin
  • Engage with and reflect upon the cultural and religious diversity that has characterised Germany from the nineteenth century until toda
  • Evaluate aspects of German history, culture and language in writing
  • Develop a specific vocabulary in German to discuss the subject themes.

Generic skills

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • Enhance oral and written intercultural communication (in German and English)
  • Practice time management and work planning
  • Advance analytical and critical thinking 
  • Enhance research skills 
  • Gain insights and improve information literacy 
  • Contribute meaningfully and collaboratively
  • Develop independence and self-responsibility. 

Last updated: 19 November 2025