With a few exceptions (German 7 [First-Year Seminar], German 13, and 42-47), the Department's courses are taught in German in an interactive seminar format. All members of the Department share in the teaching of courses at all levels. They also participate in the offerings of a variety of other academic programs and departments.

Elementary courses (German 1-3) offer intensive training in speaking, reading, writing, and aurally comprehending the language. Students meet four hours a week with regular departmental faculty and, in German 1 and 2, supplement that work with another four hours with a drill instructor trained in the Rassias Method (also called the "Dartmouth Model"). German 3 sometimes includes a modified form of these drill sections. The elementary courses also make extensive use of computer exercises and the virtual language laboratory.

Intermediate courses (German 8-11) provide an introduction to German Studies while furthering linguistic skills.

Courses conducted in English (German 7 [First-Year Seminar], German 13, and 42-47) offer students with no knowledge of German the opportunity to study aspects of German literature and civilization. Students who wish to count German 42-47 toward a major or minor in German Studies can arrange to do some of the work in German. When practical, this can include a special German discussion section. Note that it is possible to take a course with the same number more than once when the contents of the two offerings are different.

Advanced seminars (German 60-84) treat a variety of topics in German literature and culture. Note that it is possible to take a course with the same number more than once when the contents of the two offerings are different.

Independent projects (German 85 and 87) allow students to pursue individual interests with faculty supervision. Qualified students are encouraged to write an honors thesis.

Programs Abroad (German 3, 5, 6; 29-31)