Why Learn German?
Learning a new language expands your worldview—and German is a powerful choice. Spoken in Germany, Austria, and parts of Switzerland, German connects you to a rich cultural and intellectual tradition. Whether you're passionate about history, philosophy, psychology, art, music, architecture, or science, you'll find that German-speaking thinkers have shaped these fields in profound ways.
German is the language of influential figures like Hannah Arendt, Sigmund Freud, Albert Einstein, Bertolt Brecht, and Friedrich Nietzsche. It’s also a key language in international business and global affairs, with Germany serving as the economic engine of the European Union.
At Trent, our introductory German courses focus on developing practical skills in speaking, reading, writing, and translation. These courses provide a strong foundation for academic success, cultural engagement, and personal growth.
The following is a list of courses that can be found in the Academic Calendar. Please note that availability may change based on faculty scheduling. For more details, please see the Course Listing link, and check the Academic Timetable for current offerings.
GRMN-1001H- Introduction to German I: Designed for students with little or no knowledge of German, this course provides an introduction to spoken and written German through intensive teacher-student interaction and interaction in small groups, as well as an introduction to present-day Germany. Not open to students with 4U German or equivalent or those judged by the instructor to be fluent in German. Course fee: $25. Not open to students with credit for GRMN 1000Y.
GRMN-1002H- Introduction to German II: A continuation of GRMN 1001H, this course provides an introduction to spoken and written German through intensive teacher-student contact and interaction in small groups, as well as an introduction to present-day Germany. Not open to students with 4U German or equivalent or those judged by the instructor to be fluent in German. Course fee: $25. Prerequisite: GRMN 1001H or permission of instructor. Not open to students with credit for GRMN 1000Y.
GRMN-2001H- Intermediate German I: Intermediate German language course with comprehensive grammar review and intensive language practice. Course fee: $25. Prerequisite: GRMN 1000Y or 1002H or permission of instructor. Not open to students with credit for GRMN 2000Y.
GRMN-2002H- Intermediate German II: A continuation of GRMN 2001H, this course offers a comprehensive grammar review, language practice, and an introduction to German literature. Prerequisite: GRMN 2001H or permission of instructor. Not open to students with credit for GRMN 2000Y.
GRMN-2100H- Castles, Crusades, and Cars: German Cultural Shifts: Designed to give a cultural, political, and historical overview of Germany and German-speaking countries, dating back to the earliest accounts of Germanic peoples to life today. Short literary texts and excerpts (in translation) are included to illustrate how culture has impacted various aspects of civilization in these regions. An introductory German language component is included. Taught in English.