The Department of Germanic Languages and Literatures at the University of Virginia is pleased to offer the German Summer Language Institute. Upon successfully completing this rigorous yet rewarding 8-week near-immersion program, students will receive 12 credits for the first four semesters of elementary- and intermediate-level German language (GERM 1010, 1020, 2010, 2020) and will satisfy the undergraduate language requirement at UVA and many other colleges and universities. This unique experience is known for building positive peer relationships that help and support in meeting the challenge of acquiring intermediate German skills within a brief time frame.
Pedagogy and Philosophy
Besides learning German vocabulary and grammar and intensely practicing the four language skills, writing, reading, listening, and speaking, in daily morning and afternoon sessions, students will also be engaged in German cultural activities such as watching movies and preparing and cooking German dishes at the International Center.
The program aims to have students achieve the intermediate level on the ACTFL Scale.
Unique Features of the Program
The German SLI features experienced instructors who combine traditional classroom techniques with cultural components to create a stimulating and engaging atmosphere. We focus on daily conversation and journal writing, enhancing individual self-expression in German.
What students say about German SLI:
"So don’t just pick a language cause it itself is easy. No language is “easy” to learn. It won’t be enough to get through it. Pick a language or culture you actually have a reason to study. The professors are all amazing, and care so much about you and your success in the program."
"The SLI program is amazing for getting your foreign language requirement done with, acing an opportunity to find a language you want to learn and focus exclusively on that, diving into the culture of said country, and giving you an opportunity to learn something you have an interest in."
Required Textbook:
Robert Di Donato; Monica Clyde. Deutsch: Na klar! An Introductory German Course (Student Edition) 7th Edition. McGraw-Hill Education
Eight weeks – 12 credits – Tentative Daily schedule:
The program offers morning and afternoon sessions, weekly movie screenings, and bi-weekly visits to the International Center.
Morning 9:15 -10:05 (vocab)
10:15 – 11:05 (grammar)
Afternoon 12:00 – 12:50 (vocab)
13:00 – 13:50 (grammar)
14:00 – 14:50 (review)
15:00-15:50 (culture)
2023 Costs
Students in all SLI programs, including the non-credit option, must pay the Institute Fee of $60.00 and the Comprehensive Fee. See Summer Session Housing for information on housing costs. See Dining for Information on meal plans.
Virginia Resident | Non-Virginia Resident | |
Required Fees Institute Fee Comprehensive Fee |
$60 $438 |
$60 $498 |
Undergraduate Student Tuition (12 credits) |
$443 x 12cr = $5,316 | $1,625 x 12cr = $19,500 |
Graduate Student Tuition (12 credits) |
$509 x 12cr = $6,108 | $1,032 x 12cr = $12,384 |
Non-Credit Study Option Tuition | $5,316 | $5,316 |
Please note that graduate-level tuition applies to current UVA students who will graduate in May, before the start of the SLI.
Contact Information:
Department of German Languages and Literatures
Director: Stefanie Parker
Medieval German literature, German pedagogy
New Cabell Hall
(434) 987-3382