Language, Discourse and Power
The Bachelor minor in Language, Discourse and Power is a distinctive undergraduate program offered by the University of Marburg. Designed for students seeking to understand the complex relationship between language, communication, and social structures, this English-taught course combines academic depth with practical analysis. Students gain hands-on experience in discourse analysis, intercultural communication, and media studies, preparing them for advanced roles in research, education, and communication fields. The program is structured across six semesters and admits students in both the summer and winter semesters.
Located in Marburg, one of Germany’s most vibrant academic centers, this program emphasizes both theoretical excellence and applied linguistic research. With a strong focus on critical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration, students not only master advanced methods of language and discourse analysis but also benefit from international perspectives and modern academic resources. The course reflects Germany’s reputation for combining rigorous scholarship with societal relevance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to explore how language shapes power, identity, and social change.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Depends on the chosen major subject
- Standard period of study: 6 semesters
- Location: Marburg
- Study Type: Undergraduate (minor subject, full-time, international)
- Admission semester: Summer and Winter Semester
- Area of study: Linguistics, General Linguistic Science
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Linguistic and Discourse Studies
- Introduction to Linguistics
- Language, Power, and Society
- Fundamentals of Discourse Analysis
- MarSkills: Academic Writing and Communication
Semester 2 – Language and Social Contexts
- Intercultural Communication
- Empirical Methods in Language Research
- Media, Communication, and Ideology
- Seminar: Language and Identity
Semester 3 – Advanced Topics in Language and Power
- Political Discourse and Rhetoric
- Language in the Digital Age
- Research Methods Workshop
- MarSkills: Critical Thinking and Presentation Skills
Semester 4 – Specialization and Research Project
- Discourse Analysis: Theory and Application
- Case Studies in Media and Power
- Independent Research Project
- Colloquium and Final Assessment
Semester 5 – Applied Linguistics and Interdisciplinary Studies
- Cognitive and Social Aspects of Language
- Language, Gender, and Diversity
- Applied Media Discourse
- Workshop: Communication Strategies
Semester 6 – Bachelor’s Thesis and Presentation
- Bachelor’s Thesis
- Colloquium and Oral Defense
- Portfolio and Career Preparation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program gain strong analytical and communicative skills applicable in various professional contexts. The minor is particularly valuable for students pursuing careers in education, journalism, cultural management, international relations, or academia. With its focus on language and power, the program prepares students for careers in communication, media, policy, and postgraduate research.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing Language, Discourse and Power means exploring the complex relationship between language, society, and authority through an interdisciplinary and research-driven lens. The program’s flexibility allows students to combine it with a wide range of majors, tailoring their academic path to personal interests and career goals.
Offered by the University of Marburg—one of Germany’s oldest and most respected universities—the program combines intellectual tradition with contemporary relevance. Students benefit from small-group teaching, a supportive academic environment, and the opportunity to develop intercultural competence through English-language instruction.
Contact Information
University of Marburg – Student Advisory Service
Biegenstraße 10
35037 Marburg, Germany
Tel: +49 6421 28-22222
Email: zas@uni-marburg.de
Program Contact
Email: baldp@uni-marburg.de
International Office – University of Marburg
Deutschhausstraße 11–13
35037 Marburg, Germany
Email: international@uni-marburg.de
