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BSc Biology with German for Science (C1R2)
BSc Biochemistry with German for Science (C7R2)
BSc Biotechnology with German for Science (J7R2)

Course details

  • Learn about German scientific culture and history
  • All courses are taught in the target language
  • These courses are not appropriate for native or near-native speakers
Department of Life Sciences
 

Overview

In addition to the Biology, Biochemistry or Biotechnology elements of the programme, the Centre for Languages, Culture and Communication provides the following:

  • training in the use and presentation of scientific and technical material in German in written and oral forms. This is presented in a clear and effective manner for a range of purposes and audiences
  • further studies in the history, politics, science and technology of German speaking countries
  • a research project and taught courses at an approved educational institution in Germany in the third year of the course
  • an introduction to the theory and practice of translation, with a focus on German for science

 Nur wenige wissen, wie viel man wissen muss, um zu wissen, wie wenig man weiß."

 

Nur wenige wissen, wie viel man wissen muss, um zu wissen, wie wenig man weiß."

Werner Heisenberg

German Theoretical Physicist 1901-1976

 Werner Heisenberg

 

 

 

Course structure

Year 1

A two-hour weekly language class from the Imperial Horizons Programme taught over two terms (Autumn, Spring).

A one-hour weekly specialist language class to prepare you for your stay abroad, traditionally taught on Fridays at lunchtime over two terms (Autumn, Spring).

Year 2

A two-hour weekly language class from the Imperial Horizons Programme taught over two terms (Autumn, Spring)

A one-hour weekly specialist language class to prepare you for your stay abroad, traditionally taught on Fridays at lunchtime over two terms (Autumn, Spring)

  • History of Science

A one-hour weekly lecture/seminar style course on the history of contemporary German Science & Technology taught over two terms (Autumn, Spring)

 

Year 3

Year Abroad

Year spent in a partner German-speaking partner institution.

During this year of study, you are required to complete an Extended Language Project‌. In the Autumn following your return, you will have to complete a Viva on your work .

Year 4
  • General Language course (German Level 5 or German Level 6). A two-hour weekly language class from the Imperial Horizons Programme that you are required to attend in the Autumn term, with the option to complete the course in the Spring term if you wish to. (Autumn or Autumn & Spring terms)
  • A two-hour weekly practical translation class focusing on discipline related texts, taught in two separate hours over two terms (Autumn, Spring).

Terms: Autumn and Spring
Duration: 20 hours

Course Description

The aim of this module is to provide an overview of the history and politics of contemporary Germany. In terms of content, the module will introduce students to the key landmarks in German contemporary history, the most significant developments in the political life and culture of the two German states and the developments leading to and following their unification. The focus will be on developing an understanding of the main events, processes and ideas, which have shaped and influenced contemporary Germany and provide the backdrop to current problems and issues.

 

History & Politics since 1945 (Germany)

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module, you will be better prepared able to: 

Identify the most important historical events of Germany since 1945 and relate them to current socio-political situations. You will also be able to conduct independent research on socio-political matters using resources in the target language as well as summarize, analyse and/or present socio-political trends from mid-20th century Germany onwards. In addition, you will be able to construct a coherent argument or participate in a debate demonstrating control of relevant linguistic features at the appropriate level (Horizons level 3 or 4) and following relevant academic conventions. 

For the language and Year Abroad module information, please refer to the relevant linked webpages. 

Learning & Teaching Approach

The History and Politics module is taught through a weekly seminar session where you will have the chance to review, analyse and discuss key events and developments, aided with set texts or class notes. You will need to do some preparation for sessions (e.g. at-home reading) so that, during seminars, you can respond to discussions, interact with your teacher and peers, present your own perspective, and ask questions. 

Seminars will give you an opportunity to start defining your research topic in preparation for the summative assessment. 

Assessment
  • 1-hour exam on the virtual learning environment at the end of term 1 consisting of short answers on 2 out of 3 topics (min. 150 words each)
  • Independent research project (2300 words) on a theme of your choice to be handed in at the start of term 3
  • Presentation and discussion of this research during a 30-minute practical in term 3
Term 1

Term 1

  • Germany in 1945 and the immediate post-war period
  • Germany and the Cold War
  • The division of Germany
  • Two German states, two systems
  • Economic recovery of the Federal Republic
Term 2

Term 2

  • The Berlin Wall and the developments in both Germanies
  • Policies of détente: Willy Brandt and Ostpolitik
  • Reunification of the two German states
  • Unified Germany: the present situation
  • Germany, Europe and the changing World

German advice

Ms Christa Saller
c.saller@imperial.ac.uk 
Centre for Languages, Culture and Communication