German and Philosophy, MA (Hons)

Course summary

German thought has had a profound impact on philosophy, culture and science. From Arendt to Hegel, Leibnitz to Wittgenstein, many of the most influential European thinkers have come from the German-speaking world. GermanAcross all four years of our programme, including a year abroad in Year 3, your studies will give you the chance to gain professional skills in all aspects of German, including:

• reading and listening

• writing and translating

• speaking and presenting

As well as language learning, you will also explore German-language literature, film and theatre. You will study these in the context of historical and political developments, from the eighteenth century to contemporary times.On joining us, beginners take our German 1A course. Students with more experience of learning the language typically take German 1B.By your final year, you will have developed the linguistic, critical and analytical skills to the standard of completing a dissertation or long essay.PhilosophyWe have a strong, historic connection with Philosophy at Edinburgh. We count Adam Ferguson and Sir William Hamilton among our former students. By studying Philosophy, you will learn about the use of:

• argument

• critical enquiry

• reasoning

• clarity of expression

You will cover the basics of Western philosophy, and explore the different approaches that philosophers have taken. You will also have the opportunity to specialise in the areas that interest you most. Why EdinburghAs a world-leading historic, festival and capital city, Edinburgh is the ideal place to study a modern language in its cultural context.Philosophy has been taught at the University since its foundation in 1583 and German has been taught here since 1894, making it one of the first European languages to be offered at Edinburgh. Studying over four years enables you to choose courses, including from other disciplines, that match your own interests, expertise and employability needs. When you graduate, you will have the combination of language and humanities skills, and the international perspective, valued by employers worldwide.We are unique in Scotland in offering students a full academic year abroad within the four-year honours programme, regardless of whether you spend the year studying or working.

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