Bachelier en langues et lettres germaniques

Overview

From the start, you choose two languages from among Dutch, English, and German.

Through immersive and varied courses, you will develop your skills in literary and linguistic analysis, the history of languages, literatures, and civilizations, as well as culture and media, in your two target languages, in which you will develop proficiency (listening, reading, writing, speaking).

Your bachelor’s program develops your analytical, synthesis, critical thinking, and communication skills, while broadening your worldview.

At the Heart of Language and Cultures

In linguistics, you explore the mysteries of language: its evolution, diversity, complexity, and role in human interactions and on the web. In literature, you analyze how works reflect and shape cultural identities, discovering the deep connections between individuals, lived experiences, and society through texts, as well as films, music, and other media.

Enlightened thinking in the face of contemporary challenges

The languages you study become both tools and horizons. The Bachelor’s in Germanic Languages and Literature prepares you to become informed and engaged actors, capable of navigating a multilingual and interconnected world. 

Each course draws on the socio-cultural, historical, and political contexts of Dutch-, English-, and German-speaking regions. These references are then put into perspective to contextualize the major challenges of our time:

linguistic and cultural diversity, multilingualism, migration, the digital age, inclusion, intergenerational relations, connections to pop culture, media language, the ecological transition, and resilience.

Writing assignments aim to develop writing skills and mastery of current digital tools.

Erasmus Starting in Your Bachelor’s Program

An invaluable asset for enriching your academic journey and broadening your horizons, Erasmus and other (inter)national mobility programs are available starting in your bachelor’s program.

During your third year, you can take advantage of a 3- to 5-month study abroad program at one of our partner universities located in Germany, Austria, the United States, Flanders, Ireland, Japan, Luxembourg, or the Netherlands.

This experience allows you to hone your language skills while discovering university life, culture, the environment, and the daily life of these linguistic communities.

A Customized Namur Alternative

If Erasmus doesn’t fit your plans, an equally interesting option is available: a customized supplementary program. While remaining at UNamur, you can broaden your skills by choosing courses in fields such as communication, sociology, political science, history, art history, communication and media, or even sign language. This is in addition to two courses on “Language and Society,” taught in the target languages.

A Third Foreign Language to Learn

In your third year, you can explore new linguistic horizons by learning a third foreign language. Your Erasmus exchange or supplementary training gives you access to a wide range of languages, including German, English, Dutch, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Russian, and Gaelic.

You're off to a good start

  • You enjoy reading and watching movies in their original language.
  • You have strong communication skills
  • You are willing to fully commit to the two languages of your choice (German, English, or Dutch)
  • You have a B1 level (high school graduate) in English and Dutch

An intensive, immersive learning experience

Méthodes d'enseignement - Germa

Lectures, practical exercises, interactive activities, study abroad programs, and field trips… We do everything we can to ensure that you master not only the languages you study, but also their history, culture, and current events.

To enhance your learning and strengthen your skills, language and linguistics courses are enriched with cultural activities, student presentations, interactive projects, and an introduction to scientific research, in addition to grammar and conversation practice sessions.

Literature and civilization courses come to life through novels, short stories, plays, and films in their original versions. You deepen your cultural understanding through group discussions or individual analyses (Culture Club, Cultuurcafé, Kulturfabrik), as well as by fully experiencing these works through theater or movie outings and meetings with authors, directors, or literary translators.

Practical assignments help you learn to work independently and in teams, assess your knowledge, understand the instructors’ expectations, and improve your study habits. You also receive additional explanations on parts of the material you find more challenging.

For certain courses, you’ll practice the flipped classroom model, which allows you—after self-studying the main concepts—to maximize your engagement and interactions with instructors and fellow students during class.

As true “hands-on” learning experiences in linguistics and literature, your study trips also provide opportunities to conduct interviews, collect data for research projects, and immerse yourself in the culture of the country you’re visiting…

Your bachelor’s program culminates in a final thesis that allows you to develop a personal project through a scientific and analytical approach. This experience, grounded in real-world contexts, prepares you to tackle the master’s program independently. Several final theses completed by our students have even led to scientific publications!

A few must-do activities

Dutch

Immerse yourself in the language through unique immersion projects: 

  • produce your own TV news broadcast and visit the VRT
  • connect with Dutch students via Bab (b) elade
  • engage with Dutch-speaking authors and their translators 
  • explore literature at the opera or in a museum
  • take part in trips to Flanders and the Netherlands
  • develop your scientific skills through collaborative projects and interaction with (inter)national researchers.
Langues et lettres germaniques - activités néerlandais

English

  • Share your reading recommendations at the Culture Club
  • Go to the theater and the movies
  • Join the Very Merry Christmas Party
  • Visit London or Edinburgh to explore the culture
  • interview novelists about the origins of their stories
  • Discover scientific research through Babel – The Language Magazine, the annual conference of Belgian English scholars, and international conferences.
Bachelier en langues et lettres germaniques - activités anglais

German

  • Get involved in cultural activities such as the Week for German
  • engage with German-speaking writers
  • enrich yourself at the theater, the movies, and at exhibitions
  • set out to discover Germany and Austria
  • Get started with research on manuscripts and old books
  • attend open lectures by international experts or participate in the activities of the Belgian Association of Germanists.
Langues et lettres germaniques - activités allemand

Support for Success

Succeeding in a year of university studies involves many challenges. 

To help you overcome them, UNamur supports you in developing your academic, methodological, and interpersonal skills—with the help of many professionals. 

Preparatory courses, personalized assistance, tutoring sessions… Discover the resources available to support your education. 

Learn about resources to help you succeed in Germanic languages and literature

Are you interested in learning German, but only have a very basic knowledge of the language?

A refresher program has been specially designed to help you quickly and significantly improve your German skills. Specifically, it consists of classes and intensive exercises covering basic grammar.

After a bachelor's degree: a master's degree

A bachelor’s degree in Germanic Languages and Literature automatically qualifies you for a master’s degree in Germanic Languages and Literature within the Wallonia-Brussels Federation. Thanks to the harmonization of curricula, you have complete freedom to choose among the various Belgian universities, including those in Flanders.

Many graduates from Namur successfully continue their Master’s studies in Flanders (Antwerp, Ghent, Leuven) or abroad (Cologne, Innsbruck, Utrecht)!

The Master’s program includes specialized courses, elective courses, and the submission of a thesis.

The Master’s in Education specifically prepares you for teaching at the upper secondary level.

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Aims and objectives

The programme will enable students to:

  • gain knowledge of, and promote, two Germanic cultures — their language, literature and history, as well as their role in today’s world: German, and/or English, and/or Dutch;
  • become specialists in multilingual and multicultural communication.

The specialised training is complemented by an introduction to the humanities, such as philosophy and art history.

Description

From the very start, students choose two languages from English, Dutch and German.

Through immersive and varied courses, they develop their skills in literary and linguistic analysis, the history of languages, literatures and civilisations, as well as culture and media, in their two target languages — in which they build mastery across listening, reading, writing and speaking.

The Bachelor’s degree develops students’ abilities in analysis, synthesis, critical thinking and communication, while broadening their understanding of the world.

At the heart of language and cultures

In linguistics, students explore the mysteries of language — its evolution, diversity, complexity, and its role in human interaction and on the web. In literature, they analyse how works reflect and shape cultural identities, discovering the deep connections between individuals, lived experiences and society through texts, but also through films, music and other media.

An enlightened perspective on contemporary challenges

The languages studied become both tools and horizons. The Bachelor’s degree in Germanic Languages and Literatures prepares students to become informed and engaged actors, able to navigate a multilingual, interconnected world.

Each course draws on the socio-cultural, historical and political contexts of Dutch-, German- and English-speaking regions. These references are then put into perspective to contextualise today’s major challenges: linguistic and cultural diversity, multilingualism, migration, the digital age, inclusion, intergenerational relations, links with pop culture, media language, ecological transition, and resilience. Writing tasks aim to develop students’ writing skills and mastery of current digital tools.


(Inter)national mobility and a third foreign language

In the third year, students can explore new linguistic horizons by learning a third foreign language. Through Erasmus or additional training, they gain access to a wide range of languages, such as German, English, Dutch, Spanish, Italian, as well as Japanese, Russian or Gaelic.

Teaching methods

Lectures, practical exercises, coaching, study trips and visits abroad… everything is designed to ensure that students gain mastery not only of literature and linguistics in their two chosen languages, but also of the culture, history — and above all the contemporary realities — of the regions concerned.

Immersive and intensive

To support students’ learning and strengthen their skills, language and linguistics modules are enriched with cultural activities, student presentations, interactive projects and an introduction to scientific research, alongside grammar exercises and conversation sessions.

Literature and civilisation courses come alive through novels, short stories, plays and films in the original language. Students deepen their cultural understanding by engaging in group discussions or individual analyses (Culture Club, Cultuurcafé, Kulturfabrik), and by experiencing these works directly through theatre or cinema outings, as well as meetings with authors, directors or literary translators.

Practical work enables students to learn how to work independently and as part of a team, to assess their knowledge, to understand their teachers' expectations and to improve their working methods. They also benefit from additional explanations on the parts of the subject matter that they find more difficult to understand. 

Some courses are taught using the flipped classroom approach, which, after self-study of key elements, maximises engagement and interaction with teachers and fellow students during class.

Providing genuine hands-on learning experiences in linguistics and literature, study trips also offer opportunities to conduct interviews, collect data for research projects and immerse oneself in the culture of the region or country being visited. 

The Bachelor’s degree culminates in a final dissertation, allowing students to develop their personal project through a scientific and analytical approach. This experience, grounded in real-world contexts, prepares students to embark on their Master’s studies with greater independence. Several of our students’ final dissertations have even led to scientific publications!

Assessment

In the first year (Block 1), indicative written tests with follow-up are organised during the semester in certain subjects, including general courses such as Philosophy. These tests allow students to take stock of their knowledge, understand the expectations of their future examiners, and assess the effectiveness of their study methods.

In January, first-year students sit examinations on the material taught during the first semester. In the event of failure, the result is not taken into account, and students may resit the examination in June and, if necessary, in August–September. They therefore have three opportunities to succeed. Beyond the first year, any examination not passed in the January or June session is automatically deferred to the August session.

Examinations may take the form of written or oral assessments. Students are informed by each lecturer of the requirements and format of the examination. Several lecturers also provide sample questions, either orally or via the intranet.

Lecturers generally favour open-ended questions and, wherever possible, combine written and oral assessment methods in order to evaluate a range of competences, including language skills. Many lecturers use approaches designed to encourage the creative or critical application of knowledge to examples not covered in class. For many course units, a significant proportion of the final grade is determined by individual or group projects, presented in various written or oral formats.

Language skills developed through exercises may be assessed on a continuous basis (through active participation) or through individual or group assignments.

Students complete their programme by demonstrating, through their final dissertation, that they have acquired the ability to conduct research and to engage in personal and critical reflection, in accordance with the standards of the chosen discipline (literature / linguistics).

Help to succeed

  • Passport to the Bachelor’s degree

At the beginning of the first year (Block 1), students are invited to complete a questionnaire known as the Passport to the Bachelor’s degree. This questionnaire allows them to position themselves in relation to the expectations of their lecturers and of their fellow students, particularly with regard to their reading skills when dealing with advanced-level texts. Based on the results, students may benefit from correction sessions and support aimed at strengthening the required prerequisites.

These “passports” are based on research originally conducted at the University of Namur, designed to identify the prerequisites necessary for entry into university — in other words, the skills developed during secondary education that first-year (Block 1) course units draw upon, but which are not explicitly taught as part of the curriculum.

  • Study skills and methodology

From the very start of Block 1, students must familiarise themselves with new learning techniques: taking notes from dense lectures, managing their study time by setting their own interim deadlines, assimilating larger volumes of material than at secondary school, and developing appropriate study tools. They must ensure a solid understanding of the content related to each subject and adapt to a mode of communication specific to the university context. Having effective strategies in these areas is a major asset for success in the first year.

The Faculty’s Pedagogical Support Unit (CAP) offers students weekly sessions dedicated to these various aspects, organises individual review interviews after the November tests and examination sessions, and remains available to provide more personalised follow-up when needed.

The University of Namur’s Interfaculty Pedagogical Support Unit (CIAP) responds to any request for methodological support and can offer individual guidance throughout the academic year. At various points, it also contributes directly to the support sessions organised by the CAP, particularly in relation to study integration techniques and time and stress management.

Finally, on the eve of the first exam revision period (blocus), students may take part in a discussion and advice session with second- or third-year students, under the supervision of the Pedagogical Support Unit and the department.

  • Coaching with lecturers

Where necessary, the teaching team supports students in strengthening their language skills and mastering specific elements (grammar, writing, etc.). This support may take place either in person or remotely (for example, for Erasmus students).

International mobility and openness

An invaluable asset for enriching students’ academic journey and broadening their horizons, Erasmus and other (inter)national mobility opportunities are available as early as the Bachelor’s programme.

In the third year, students may benefit from a study placement of 3 to 5 months at one of our partner universities in Germany, Austria, the United States, Flanders, Ireland, Japan, Luxembourg or the Netherlands.

This experience enables them to further develop their language skills while discovering university life, culture, environment and everyday life within these linguistic communities.

The mobility programmes, designed by the students in consultation with the International Mobility Coordinator, must be approved by the admissions board, in line with several criteria: the mobility programme must comprise at least 21 credits as a replacement for the complementary modules, including at least one literature-focused module and one linguistics-focused module, through which students deepen their knowledge and skills in the language of the host university. It must also include at least one module offered in the student’s second core language of study, where this is available at the partner institution, or alternatively in a third language. Finally, the programme must not include modules that have already been credited during the Bachelor’s in Germanic Languages and Literatures.

For students whose plans do not involve Erasmus, there is the option of a tailored complementary programme. Remaining at UNamur, they can broaden their skills by selecting courses in fields such as communication, sociology, political science, history, art history, communication and media, or sign language, including The Book and Digital Culture. They also choose two courses from the specific Germanic Languages and Literatures offering: Language and Society, Sprache und Gesellschaft or Taal en maatschappij, depending on their target languages.

Careers for German Language Majors

Métiers des germanistes

Jobs for Germanists

German studies graduates possess the qualities sought after for leadership roles: in-depth knowledge of several foreign languages (the most important ones in the Belgian context being the national languages and English, the international language par excellence), as well as flexibility, adaptability, methodological skills, and critical thinking. 

A highly sought-after profile 

In the globalized society of the 21st century, mastery of various languages and knowledge of cultures other than one’s own offer, more than ever, greater control over oneself and one’s environment, particularly in the professional sphere. 

Oral and written proficiency in several foreign languages (in addition to French) opens up numerous career opportunities for German studies majors. But multilingualism is not their only key to success; other strengths add to their skill set. Studies in languages and literature develop strong analytical skills, the ability to synthesize information, and critical thinking; they teach students to seek meaning and organize information; they train them to report and argue in multiple languages, both orally and in writing. All these skills, combined with a solid general education, enable German studies graduates to learn quickly and advance professionally in sectors as diverse as education, international organizations, business, media, and more. 

Finally, a significant advantage is that German studies graduates can directly apply their skills in the country’s three linguistic communities and internationally. 

Some German studies graduates pursue further education through additional training (in communication, IT, management, etc.), which can facilitate their entry into the workforce in more specialized fields. 

Teaching and Training 

Many Germanists share their expertise and passion for German, English, or Dutch with secondary school students. Germanists also work in other educational settings with audiences of all ages. There is a significant demand for competent language teachers at colleges, universities, private language centers, continuing education institutions, and even within certain large national or international companies.

To teach Germanic languages in upper secondary education, one must hold a Master’s degree in Education (Section 4 or 5).

Language services 

In Belgium, federal and international administrations, as well as multinational companies, generate numerous jobs related to foreign language proficiency: translation, and the management of multilingual documentation and information. Some Germanists offer these services as freelancers. 

In addition, new professions related to computer-based language processing are emerging: developing machine translation or speech recognition software, creating educational software, and more. In these types of innovative projects, linguists’ expertise provides invaluable support to information technology specialists. 

The Corporate World 

More and more Germanists are working in companies with an international focus: exporting SMEs, banks, insurance firms, IT services, transportation, and logistics… They hold positions in direct contact with foreign clients, assist international senior executives, or advance to management roles. 

Research 

Some Germanists pursue research after graduation, often combined with teaching duties, in Belgium and sometimes abroad. Universities and public funds (e.g., the FNRS) may provide funding for a doctoral degree. Holders of a PhD in Philosophy and Letters have the opportunity to teach at universities and higher education institutions both nationally and internationally. 

For the department’s research topics, please visit the department’s website.

Media and Communication 

Provided they have broadened their horizons to include the socio-economic sphere or specialized in a particular cultural field, German studies graduates can enter the media industry (television, print media, specialized press, corporate media, etc.). 

Many of our graduates are now working as journalists. Others hold positions in communications-related fields (public relations, marketing), for example in cultural institutions or the tourism sector. 

Building a Social Life 

When it comes to landing a first job, a candidate’s personality is often just as important as their university degree, which is why it’s important to stay curious throughout your studies and build a rich social life. Even though they are highly sought after in the job market, future German studies graduates will give themselves the best chance of landing a fulfilling first job that aligns with their aspirations by gaining diverse intercultural experiences during their studies, such as studying abroad or getting involved in community organizations.