English and American Studies

The field of study focusses on Great Britain (English Studies in the narrower sense) and North America (American Studies, occasionally also Canadian Studies). However, other countries and cultural areas in which the English language plays an important role are also included. Ancient American Studies also deals with the language, culture and history of the past advanced civilisations of South, Central and North America (e.g. Aztecs, Maya, Incas).

Students focus primarily on the linguistic, cultural, historical, political and geographical characteristics of the English-speaking world. They also focus on theatre, film and television as well as art and music. As the expansion of language skills is a high priority, lectures and events are often held in English. It is also common for students to spend time abroad.

A good basis for a successful course of study in this field is knowledge of the following school subjects: English, German and history. 

Some universities organise an aptitude test to assess language skills and motivation.

English and American Studies are offered at numerous universities, sometimes as a combined subject.

Depending on the university, there are different subject orientations or specialisations. Some degree programmes, such as British Studies, focus on Great Britain, while American Studies focuses on the United States of America. Many degree programmes combine both.