Yes, but we were only required to have a "novice" level of German. Which all in all is pretty low. If you are looking for German classes, I recommend the Goethe Institut. They have fairly small classes and have offices all around the country/world and are internationally recognized. Otherwise you should try to find a private tutor. Though many master degree programs are taught in English in Germany, depending on the city where you are, you'll want to be able to converse a little (if you are studying in Berlin though I wouldn't bother, nearly everyone speaks English). English is most often compulsory in the education system and usually they begin learning it at age 10. Though if you do know at least Standard German it opens you up to a more diverse group of people and your cultural experience will be a lot richer.