German, if all its complexities don't break you first, can open up many doors for:
- academics wanting to attend or work at one of Germany's, Austria's, or Switzerland's world-class universities
- engineers and entrepreneurs wanting to work in Europe's robust economy
- publishers and translators wanting to access the third largest book-market after Chinese and English
- beer-drinkers wanting to experience Oktoberfest
- night owls seeking the answer to their insomnia in Berlin
- instagrammers seeking fairytales
- those seeking out a worthwhile challenge!
Why Deutsches Haus at NYU?
We are New York City's oldest German language school, open to the public since 1977, and are part of an amazing university, NYU. Some of our teaching staff has been with us for many years and they still manage to keep things fresh.
Can anyone take a German class at Deutsches Haus at NYU?
Yes! Our German language classes are open to the general public. And now that we also teach remotely, we hope to get students from all across the United States (and beyond)!
What's this A1.1 thing? How do I know which level to take?
That A1.1, A1.2, etc. is called the Common European Framework of Reference. It's a standardized leveling system used throughout the EU to better gauge acquired language skills. We're fancy enough to use it too!
How do I determine which level I am?
You can take a placement test (60 multiple choice questions, untimed) and we will determine your level.
Do these classes offer university/college credit?
In serving the public regardless of university or college enrollment, our classes do not count for university or college credit, but they can help with preparation for language exemption or proficiency exams. Language classes outside of university departments are a great option to save on tuition depending on your degree requirements.
Is there any documentation after taking the class?
Yes! Upon completion, please write to deutsches.haus@nyu.edu to request a certificate of completion. In order to be eligible for a certificate, the student must complete the course with fewer than three absences.
What does a remote class look like?
We are using Zoom, in accordance with all of NYU's remote instructions, but do not fear, every class is 100% instructor-led. We wouldn't der leave you alone in the face of this language-learning journey.
Zoom has a free version here. Our instructors will be using a licensed version by NYU and will send links to all registered students before the class starts.
Our regular courses are 2.5 hours long, and our special/conversation courses are 2 hours long. Of course, there's a 10-15 minute break :)
Throughout the class experience, you'll be able to see your instructor and classmates. Your instructor will be able to share material such as images and links via Zoom, create breakout sessions so that fewer students are grouped together to discuss amongst themselves (or do group exercises), and plenty more, such as create timed polls/questionnaires for lightning round-type games. The possibilities are truly endless with Zoom.
Is this one of those classes where they just drill grammar into you?
No! Our classes focus on all components of learning: reading, writing, speaking, and hearing. There's grammar, of course, but it's much more immersive than that. We also have Conversation Courses (also known as Special Courses), that move away from the traditional structure to take a more thematic approach. Past Conversation Courses have included: German Television: National Narratives in the Age of Netflix; Kunst des 20 Jahrhunderts; DelikatEssen; Geschichte; a rotating Literaturkurs etc. We offer about five Conversation/Special Courses per regular term (non-regular terms would be the Holiday Intensives and the Summer terms).
Is there a trial class or some way to see if theses classes are a good match for me?
We do offer 20-minute trials periodically at the A1.1 and B1.1 levels. Check here for more information on how to sign up for the next session! Our next trial class will take place on June 13, 2023.
Is there an option for private instruction (one-on-one)?
Yes! Need a more tailor-made curriculum to suit a timeline or specific goal? Tanja Schmitz, our Language Program Coordinator, can help set you up with one of our instructors. Here is more info on pricing.
Are all the instructors native speakers?
Yes, or they are failed intellectuals. Either way, you win!
How much is a German-language class at Deutsches Haus at NYU?
Our regular course fee is $620 for 25 hours, and $540 for our conversation courses of 20 hours. To see all prices, please click here.
Do you give discounts?
Yes! The current discount eligible communities are: students (high school or university), seniors (ages 65+), and NYU alumni/staff/faculty. We give 10% off to all of the above communities. Please reach out to deutsches.haus@nyu.edu with a photo or scan of a valid ID for the corresponding discount (school ID for all categories other than the senior discount, for which a valid state ID or passport - with a legible DOB - will do) in order to receive the code.
We also have a 15% off refer-a-friend discount. Find out more about discounts here. Only one discount is applicable per registration.
Children (who register for the Children Program) have a 10% returning student discount and a 15% sibling discount option. Only one discount is applicable per registration.
When can I start?
Summer term registration is now open!
Is there a Newsletter for future updates?
Of course we have a newsletter! It goes out every Monday, unless it's a holiday. You can subscribe here!
