Go Global, Build Networks, Create Nodes: Integrating the Humanities and the Professions

Abstract

Changing public demands and decreasing enrollment numbers have challenged the traditional concept of teaching languages, cultures, and literatures in the U.S. Although nationwide enrollment numbers in German programs have been declining, “global” German Studies programs such as the ones at the University of Connecticut and the University of Rhode Island have seen an increase over the years. This article demonstrates how these programs do not only integrate world perspectives and all matters international but introduce a broader view of “global.” They go “global” in content by integrating the Humanities and the Professions on the undergraduate (UConn and URI) and graduate (UConn) level. The authors share insights into dual degree programs in German and Business, German and Engineering, and German and Diplomacy; Intercultural Communication within language and culture teaching; and Digital Humanities and Media Studies. The key for offering students these opportunities is threefold: (1) learning about and discussing topics that are relevant to the students' future career and life, (2) fostering cross‐disciplinary skills such as critical thinking and intercultural competence, and (3) establishing and nurturing relationships with other disciplines and public sectors that are reciprocal and cross‐pollinating, not exclusionary or hierarchical.