Dual PhD/DPhil Degree in Transcultural German Studies

With its German partner universities in Leipzig and Cologne, the dual PhD/DPhil degree program in Transcultural German Studies fosters intercultural competence and professional excellence across the Atlantic. The program offers interdisciplinary doctoral training in two rigorous academic environments, while providing intensive mentoring opportunities and comprehensive financial support. 

Incoming US-based students complete one year of doctoral coursework at the University of Arizona and a second year in Germany, either at the University of Leipzig or the University of Cologne, while financially supported through teaching and research fellowships. Students who begin their doctoral studies in Leipzig or Cologne pursue their second year of doctoral course work at the University of Arizona, where they teach alongside their US-based colleagues in the German Studies Department. Students complete their third year of coursework at their home institution. 

The Graduate Handbook, esp. section III, will guide you through the details of the program.

Prospective students need to fulfill the following prerequisites:

  • A Master’s Degree (or Magister) in German, German Studies, German as a Foreign Language, or equivalent field
  • A high level of competence in English and German (minimum Common European Framework rating of C1)

German Studies minor: PhD candidates in other disciplines may select a minor in German Studies. The German Studies minor for PhD candidates outside the Department of German Studies consists of 12 units. Up to 6 units may be transferred from a German Studies MA or its equivalent. The Director of Graduate Studies is happy to answer any questions about the PhD minor in German Studies.

Testimonials

Allison Overgaard

MA 2014

As I reflect on my experience at the University of Arizona I realized that I have had the opportunity to grow in so many areas. My German has continued to improve and I have learned a great deal about German history as well. In addition I have gained the skills to become a teacher. I enjoyed the many activities that were offered in the department. The feedback that I received from the German faculty has translated into positive feedback from my student sand several students have chosen to seek a German minor or major which they attribute to my classes. This would not have been possible without the mentorship and guidance of the German department faculty who helped me develop and hone skills that translate into engaging and inspiring students. I feel happy to have Masters of Arts in German Studie sand my secondary education certification, a degree that allows me to teach and at the same time opens other avenues of employment. I would certainly recommend University of Arizona's German program to anyone and would be happy to talk to any students considering pursuing a degree at the University of Arizona.