About the Department

Mission Statement

The Department of German and Russian aspires to become a leading undergraduate foreign language program for language acquisition, cultural understanding, and international business relations. Our goal is to be a beacon of excellence in promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion within the realms of German and Russian language, culture, and scholarship. We aspire to cultivate a vibrant and inclusive academic environment that embraces the richness of human diversity and leverages it to inspire innovative learning, cutting-edge research, and global citizenship.

The Department aims to guide students to proficiency in the traditional four language acquisition skills (speaking, aural comprehension, reading, and writing) and to introduce them to the broad arena of culture, including literature, arts, history, and politics. Our strong proficiency-based teaching methods, in tandem with the exceptional opportunities for study abroad, enable our students to achieve a higher-than-average level of sophistication in all these areas.

An integral part of the mission of this department is to encourage as many majors, minors, and other interested students as possible to study abroad. Studying abroad, in concert with their on-campus exposure to German and Russian studies, assists them in thinking more objectively about American culture and language from a distanced perspective and enables them to examine their attitudes and beliefs more objectively.

In addition, the university’s goal of preparing its students for their professional life is certainly enhanced by familiarity with, and close scrutiny of, foreign cultures, attitudes, languages, and economies in light of the contemporary emphasis on global understanding and interaction.

Our mission encompasses the following key elements:

Language Proficiency: We are committed to equipping students with advanced language proficiency in German and Russian, enabling them to communicate effectively in both written and spoken forms. Proficiency in German and Russian opens doors to academic, professional, and personal opportunities in a global context.

Cultural Exploration: We aim to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of German and Russian-speaking cultures, from historical legacies to contemporary expressions. Through exposure to literature, film, art, and sociopolitical issues, students gain insights into the diverse tapestry of the German and Russian-speaking world.

Critical Thinking: We foster critical thinking skills by encouraging students to analyze, interpret, and reflect upon complex cultural and literary texts. Through rigorous intellectual engagement, students develop the ability to approach multifaceted issues with analytical depth.

Global Citizenship: We believe in the importance of producing global citizens who appreciate cultural diversity and have a profound understanding of Germany’s and Russia’s role in the world. Our graduates are equipped to navigate the complexities of an interconnected global society.

Interdisciplinary Exploration: We encourage interdisciplinary exploration by facilitating collaborations with other departments and programs, enabling students to enrich their understanding of German and Russian studies through diverse academic perspectives.

Research and Scholarship: We actively engage in research and scholarship that contributes to the field of German and Russian studies. Our faculty members are dedicated to producing innovative research that advances knowledge and enhances the learning experiences of our students.

Cultural Exchange: We promote cultural exchange by facilitating study-abroad opportunities, internships, and partnerships with German and Russian-speaking institutions. We provide scholarships so that all students can access these opportunities. These experiences deepen students’ cultural immersion and linguistic fluency.

Career Opportunities: We encourage students to apply for our paid summer internships in Germany. They can access countless career prospects, particularly in finance, engineering, technology, and manufacturing. Additionally, German students can take courses in Business German, which will prepare them for the German-speaking working world.

Community Engagement: We engage with local and global communities to promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. We actively participate in cultural events, outreach programs, and collaborations that enrich the cultural fabric of Winston-Salem and beyond.

Inclusivity and Equity: We are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds, and providing support to ensure their success.

Lifelong Learning: We instill a passion for lifelong learning, encouraging students to continue their exploration of the German and Russian languages and cultures beyond the classroom, whether through further study, travel, or engagement with cultural communities.

In pursuit of our mission, the Department of German and Russian is dedicated to nurturing our students’ intellectual and personal growth, preparing them to excel in an increasingly interconnected world and contribute positively to society. We are proud of our role in promoting cross-cultural understanding and fostering a deep appreciation for the German-speaking world’s contributions to the global cultural tapestry.