In the subject of German philology, linguistic and translinguistic (multimodal) texts are taught and researched with regard to how they appear in a comparison between Finnish culture and the cultures in German speaking countries. Both linguistic (literary, non-fictional and professional texts) and translinguistic (for example: businesses, urban planning, public buildings) texts are explored from the perspective of intercultural communication.

Studies in the subject consist of focus areas, some of which are translation, literature, culture and intercultural communication. In addition, it is possible for major and minor students of German philology to pursue a 25 credit point minor subject package in translation.

Degree studies also include a period of language training, which can be completed, for instance, by working abroad for two months, taking a month- long language course, or studying in a German-speaking country for the duration of an academic term/year. On a yearly basis, students are offered stipends for language courses or studies abroad. The subject of German philology has partner universities, for instance, in Germany and Austria. Exchange studies completed abroad can be fully included in a degree in German philology, which means that exchange studies advance degree studies as well.