Romance Languages and Literature

The task of Romance studies is to examine the origins of the Romance language family and to record the similarities and differences between the individual languages. Romance studies was originally a purely historical-comparative linguistics that focused primarily on the very well-documented Latin. In Germany it continued to develop as a science that originally dealt with several languages at the same time, while individual philologies emerged, especially in Romance countries. This is one of the reasons why the study of all Romance languages is increasingly taking a back seat these days.

In Romance studies, generalist courses are offered, but also those that have the specialization in their name. The latter include, for example, Franco-Roman studies or Hispanic studies. Romance studies courses are only offered at universities.

In addition to learning the language, students also deal with the geographical, historical, cultural and political conditions of the countries in which the language is spoken. You can choose the focus of your training individually and specialize in literary studies, for example. The compulsory modules are literary studies, linguistics, cultural studies and language practice. The elective modules include language practice in another Romance language, introduction to regional and cultural studies, translation, media communication and media and society. Internships and stays abroad are usually mandatory.

Depending on the university, a local selection process may be used. Some language skills are required.

Graduates can give language lessons, work in art and culture management or be employed by management consultancies. Other areas of activity include press and public relations, editing, journalism and proofreading, media production and adult education.