In our world of global communication and travel, language specialists find themselves constantly in demand. German involves the study of a language that is closely related to English.<br>German culture and creativity form much of the Western heritage in music, visual art, architecture, philosophy and the sciences. It's easy to see that the study of German can enhance the study of many other disciplines.<br>German is one of the world's major European languages and one of the two principal languages of Europe. Germany is one of the world's largest contributors to research and development, and its well-funded universities are an important destination for scientists and students.<br>Knowledge of German language and culture has long been an asset in Europe but it is also a major advantage within New Zealand.<br>Today, there are more reasons to study German than ever before. German is the most commonly spoken language in the European Union. Germany is Europe's largest economy, the world's third largest exporting nation, an influential member of the European Union, and a key player at the United Nations.<br>German speakers have left a trace on every aspect of Western culture: music, literature, art, theatre and film, architecture and philosophy.