Intensive language programs in Berlin may be just that: intensive (but fun!). In addition to living in the great city of Berlin, you might study your language on a daily basis or several times per week. If you are studying German, you could deepen your knowledge just by living in German-speaking Berlin. Grocery shopping, making new friends, and asking for directions as you explore the city may all become lessons in language!
However, even if you’re not studying German, intensive language programs in Berlin might be great for you if:
- You have a penchant for creative expression and want to explore the arts
- You treasure history and want to get out of the textbooks and into museums and historic districts
- You love cosmopolitan cities and want to enjoy great cuisine, nightlife, infrastructure, and cleanliness (but also like a little grit)
- You love nature and want to enjoy forests, flowers, and fields of green (without having to leave the city!)
- You love castles, palaces, and quaint, European neighborhoods and long to explore
- You love all of the above and are looking for the perfect place to study language abroad
If you began imagining yourself in any of these life-enhancing experiences or simply want to build your resume, develop your language skills, and earn academic credit while you have a fantastic adventure, read on! You can learn more about Berlin, better understand the structure of intensive language programs, and contact programs for more information and to register. Onward!
How Are Intensive Language Programs in Berlin Structured?
Intensive language programs in Berlin come in a variety of formats. First, intensive language programs might offer German language courses, or they might offer courses in other languages, such as English or French. Students may study their chosen language at beginning, intermediate, or advanced levels, and generally work to develop their skills and knowledge to read, write, speak and understand their chosen language. Some may choose to study a language broadly, while others may prefer programs that focus on a certain component of the language, such as that used in a particular industry or discipline.
In the classroom, students might study their language through independent coursework and interactions with instructors and classmates. Outside of the classroom, students might continue their studies by staying with a host family (one that speaks German, for example) or in places with classmates where they can practice their language skills together on a regular basis. Students studying German obviously enjoy the additional benefit of studying their language as they explore Berlin and interact with German-speaking people. Finally, some language programs might include cultural excursions or travel to other parts of Germany or Europe for an added bit of fun and adventure (oh and education too!).
What is it Like in Berlin?
Berlin is a somewhat serious and cosmopolitan city that also manages to be vibrant and laid back. This dynamic isn’t too surprising given the city’s multi-dimensional past. Berlin was once home to part of the Nazi Party and countless battles, revolutions, and divisions between citizens. Occupation zones and the Berlin Wall were a significant part of the city’s history. However Berlin was also home to an expansive German Expressionist movement and the roaring twenties. That history contributed to Berlin’s celebratory, exuberate, and creative spirit. Thanks in part to this multi-faceted past, Berlin is quite diverse; it is at once traditional and innovative, subdued and expressive, quaint and expansive. In Berlin, an array of historic, social, and cultural expressions emerge around every corner.
Berlin’s present-day is also quite unique. The city devotes itself to preservation, tradition, and remembering the past, but it also embraces innovation and modernization. Its public transportation, pedestrian, and bicycle path networks, for example, are phenomenal. Berlin also embraces innovation in areas such as environmental protection and internet technology. The city pulsates to the rhythms of a large media industry, expansive networks of creative professionals, and a host of fairs and festivals that celebrate and unite tradition with today’s society. Overall, Berlin might be a fascinating and fun place to study language.
Here are some specific things you might want to see and do in Berlin:
- Picnic, wander, and play in the park. That’s right—just like little kids. Berlin’s park, forest, and garden system is expansive and well cared-for. Consider taking your homework to a park and enjoying a picnic and study session with friends. Look for public art, historic palaces, and a blend between manicured and wild flora. Take a deep breath and allow yourself to escape from the city. (Although, many of Berlin’s fabulous natural oases are intertwined with Berlin’s urban areas.)
- Buy or borrow a guide book and see the sights. Become a tourist to explore the social, cultural, and historical hotspots. Visit the remaining portion of the Berlin Wall. Look up in wonder at the buildings in East Berlin. Go to the dome of the Reichstag Building. Walk beneath the Brandenburg Gate. Go to Museum Island. Basically, do whatever you can to witness the history and culture Berlin has worked so hard to share.
- Wander and enjoy Berlin’s culture, especially in the evenings. Look for public dances in squares lit by tiny lights; dress up and head to the orchestra or symphony; meet friends at a beer garden and eat sausages (try different types! Have some fun!); go dancing at clubs with the locals; eat at traditional food trucks and carts. Eat at restaurants devoted to foodies. Consume Berlin like it’s the most delicious of foods.
- Get out of Berlin. Take advantage of Berlin’s train system and go to surrounding cities. Taking the train is a great way to see different parts of Berlin and its surrounding areas, and visiting nearby cities and villages might make your adventure even more exciting and fulfilling.
How Can I Find Intensive Language Programs in Berlin?
Can't wait to study language in Berlin? You can get started by simply browsing the program listings below. Or use our search tool to cutomize your options for intensive language programs in Berlin. Browse by program duration (weeks, months, or even a year) or language (English, French, or German) by filtering programs based on your preferences. Then, read through your options and click on their links for more information or to contact the program directly.
As you explore your options for Berlin language courses and programs, you might notice that each is distinct and offers particular opportunities and structures. Perhaps this will enable you to find your perfect program. We wish you luck!
