Minor European Languages and Cultures

Fennistics or Finno-Ugristics (Uralistics) deals with the languages and literatures of Finland, Hungary, Estonia and some smaller languages in Russia as well as their cultures. What they have in common is that they have no relation to the other languages of Europe.

Baltic studies deals with the Baltic languages Latvian and Lithuanian and the Caucasian languages (Caucasiology).

Degree programs in the field of Finnish studies are offered at various universities, sometimes in combination with Scandinavian studies.

The University of Greifswald is the only university in Germany to offer the Baltic Studies course.

The course provides comprehensive technical knowledge, methods and skills in the field of Finno-Ugric languages and cultures. This includes linguistic basics, possibly learning the two languages Finnish and Hungarian, regional studies as well as basic scientific working techniques and skills.

The subject “Baltic Studies”, which is unique in Germany, deals with Baltic philology. The philological view of the Baltics includes the linguistic, literary and cultural developments of Latvia and Lithuania. Language skills in at least one of the two languages are also acquired.

Graduates work in cultural, economic and political institutions, especially in the context of Europe growing together.