Romance Languages and Literature

Romance Studies deals with Romance languages, i.e. those languages that have developed from Latin. These include primarily French, Italian, the Ibero-Romance languages (Spanish, Portuguese, Catalan), which are also the languages of Central and South America (Latin America), and Romanian and Romansh.

The study field at a glance

The task of Romance Studies is to investigate the genesis of the Romance language family and to understand commonalities and differences of the individual languages. Romance studies were originally purely historical-comparative linguistics, focusing mainly on well-documented Latin. In Germany, it developed as a science that treats several languages simultaneously, while in particular in Romance countries individual philology's emerged. This is one of the reasons why the occupation with all Romance languages is increasingly taking a back seat.

Offered courses

In Romance studies, generalist courses are offered, as well as those that already carry the specialization in the name. The latter include, for example, communication, language and literature or philology. Romance studies are offered exclusively at universities.

Contents of the course

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

Admission criteria & study application

Depending on the university, a local selection procedure can be used. Sometimes language skills are required.

Possible careers after graduation

Graduates can work as interpreters and translators, give language classes, work in art and cultural management or be employed by management consultancies. Other fields of activity include press and public relations, editorial, journalism and editing, media production and adult education.

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Study information

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