BA German Literature and Cultural Studies at Columbia University

Programme overview

The BA German Literature and Cultural Studies is offered at Columbia University.

Faculty: Columbia College | Department: Germanic Languages | Study mode: full-time | Location: New York, NY, United States

What you will study

There will be a limit on the number of courses taken abroad that can be applied to the major/minor, and they must be approved by the DUS.” The department offers a language-intensive German program over the summer at the Freie Universität Berlin (FUBiS). The Deutsches Haus Prize for Distinguished Undergraduate Achievement is given to a graduating German major or minor who has demonstrated excellence and promise in the field of German Studies.

Career pathways

This hands-on experience immerses students in both language and culture, preparing them for graduate study and professional careers.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Admission is to Columbia College (not programme-specific); majors are declared after admission to the College.

USD 72,800 a year (2026-27). Undergraduate tuition for Columbia College and Columbia Engineering, one rate for all undergraduates and not stated per major. Excludes fees ($4,160), housing, food and books. Source

First-year entry is for Fall 2027; applications are accepted for full-time enrolment at Columbia College or Columbia Engineering. Transfer admission is for the fall semester only.

First-year applications for Fall 2027 open August 1. Early Decision deadline is November 1 (financial aid application November 15, decisions mid-December). Regular Decision deadline is January 1 (financial aid February 15, decisions late March, reply by May 1). Apply through the Common Application, the Coalition Application on Scoir or QuestBridge. The application fee is $85, paid online by electronic check or credit card, with fee waivers available. SAT or ACT submission is optional for applicants entering Fall 2027; scores will be required from the 2027-2028 admissions cycle.

Transfer applications for Fall 2027 are due March 1, through the Coalition Application on Scoir. The application fee is $85. Test scores are optional for Fall 2027 entry.

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