Both the Master of Arts in Germanic Studies and the Master of Arts in Modern German Culture require successful completion of a Master's project, which is intended to give students experience in carrying out a limited scholarly investigation to the fullest of their potential.

The project is normally submitted after three of four semesters of study, but may be submitted as early as the first year. It entails appropriate revision and oral defense of a research paper of 20 to 30 pages originally written for a graduate course in Germanic Studies. The paper should demonstrate command of expository English or German; competence in the use of bibliographic and research tools; ability to conceive and develop a scholarly project; and effective critical and analytical thinking.

It is recommended that students consult with appropriate faculty members regarding selection and revision of the project paper. A three-person faculty committee evaluates each project and conducts an oral defense that examines the candidate's ability to present concisely the main argument(s) of the project; place the project in larger scholarly contexts; discuss sources and scholarly literature used; and respond effectively to committee members' questions and comments.

Students have the option of enrolling in German G850, Master's project, for one credit, so that the project's completion is reflected on their permanent academic record and transcripts.