Program Overview

Joint MA in Intercultural German Studies (IcGS)

The Joint MA in Intercultural German Studies (IcGS) is a unique program that awards one degree from two universities, the University of Waterloo and the Universität Mannheim. This international accreditation means that students will have equal degree recognition in Europe and North America.

Program Overview

This joint international MA program is designed to help students develop the linguistic, research, and intercultural skills and understanding necessary for succeeding in today’s knowledge-based global society. The program is more integrated than an exchange term, and it is the first joint transatlantic humanities degree available in Canada.

Program Timelines

The program timeline is as follows:

• Term 1: September-December at the University of Waterloo
• Semester 1: January-June at the Universität Mannheim
• Semester 2: August-December at the Universität Mannheim
• Term 2: January-April at the University of Waterloo
• Term 3: May-August at the University of Waterloo

During this time, students will write and defend their MA thesis. It is best not to deviate from this model, and any changes to the study sequence must be formally approved by the Joint Program Committee.

Experiential Learning Component

As part of the experiential learning component, students will have a job at the Philosophical Faculty in Mannheim of approximately 3 hours per week. They will get paid € 100.-/month for their work. The Hi-Wi (Hilfswissenschaftler)-Job can be used for the Graduate Studies Internship if students complete the necessary requirements.

Additional Information

For additional information, please refer to the Guidelines page. The program is supported by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union.