Harper College

German

There are more native speakers of German in Europe than any other language

In Harper's German program, you'll have access to:German Flag

You will gain German proficiency enhanced by cultural and historical knowledge of the German-speaking regions. German courses are taught from the beginning to advanced and conversational levels. 

Students often complete their first two years of study at Harper College and then transfer their credits to a four-year institution.

What level course should I take?

If you wish to study German, and do not have any experience in German, register for a 101-level course. 

If you have some knowledge of German and plan to study German at Harper College, follow the placement instructions

Reasons to learn German

There are more native speakers of German in Europe than any other language, and Germany continues to be a driving force within the European Union. Besides Germany, German is spoken in Austria, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Liechtenstein, northern Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, eastern France, parts of Poland, the Czech Republic, Russia, and Romania, as well as in other parts of Europe. German is the third most popular foreign language taught worldwide. 

German companies account for over 700,000 jobs in the U.S. There are over 200 German companies in the Chicago area, and more than 120 Chicago-based companies in Germany. American jobs demanding German proficiency pay more than jobs requiring any other language.

Learning German can expand your appreciation and knowledge of U.S. and Chicago history and culture. In the year 2000 census, 42.8 million or 15.2% of Americans reported having German ancestry. Trace your roots and learn about Chicago’s German landmarks and legacies.

Gutenberg’s printing press. The Theory of Relativity. MP3 music format. Germany has always been a land of innovation and new technologies. Get inspired by learning the language of innovators.

The music of Vienna. The Biergartens of Munich. The beautiful castles along the Rhine. The ski slopes of Switzerland. The film scene of Berlin. The German-speaking regions of Europe offer rich cultural experiences to travelers of any age and with any interest.

 
Last Updated: 3/15/24