Language Courses
Since it is impossible to immerse one's self in another culture without knowing the language, intensive German language courses are an integral part of the IUSP program. These German language courses encompass 120 contact hours and accommodate all levels of language proficiency, including a beginner's level.
Our goal is to enable you to pursue academic study in Germany while also making progress toward graduation at your home institution. You will also gain a deep understanding of another language and culture, an essential prerequisite for establishing personal ties.
The intensive language courses, together with a course on German culture and history, will be held during the six weeks prior to the start of the regular semester at the University of Marburg. Shortly after your arrival in September (fall semester) or February (spring semester), you will receive language instruction for four to five hours a day, Monday through Friday. A language placement test upon arrival in Marburg will help determine each student's German proficiency level/course level.
Course Levels
Our course levels correspond to the Common European Framework of Reference. A description can be found on the web site of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), here.
If students are interested in what their current knowledge corresponds to, there are various links to self-assessment tests.
Equivalences to other level systems, tests and standards are collected in a Wikipedia page.
Syllabi for the course levels can be found here:
More
Throughout the week, the intensive language training will be supplemented by a course relating to economy, politics, geography, history and institutions of contemporary Germany. Here, the language of instruction will be English.
A German conversation class is also offered after the end of the intensive class. There students can practice what they have learned.
