The field of German and Scandinavian Studies concerns itself primarily with the languages, literatures, histories, and cultures of more than 100 million people living in Central and Northern Europe: Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Finland, and Sweden. In a time of political transformation in Europe and increasing cooperation between these nations and the United States in trade and commerce, technology and science, the environment, the arts, and leisure and sports, a mastery of their languages and a deeper understanding of their societies and cultures can open diverse opportunities for personal development and preparation for a professional career.

The program is structured to set the study of languages and their literatures within the contexts of their respective cultures, including their historical, economic, political, philosophical, and popular cultural aspects. Strong interdisciplinary ties with other departments (music, drama, the visual arts, history, philosophy, political science, business) are encouraged.

Members of different American and European faculties appear as speakers before the department or teach as visiting professors. Close cooperation with the Goethe Institute in Boston enriches the extracurricular program and acquaints students with many aspects of contemporary Germany. German film series are regularly offered, often in conjunction with the DEFA Film Library and surrounding colleges. Lectures and performances which are sponsored by the German departments of Amherst, Mount Holyoke, and Smith colleges are open to all students and greatly diversify the cultural offerings in this field.