Learning research languages

[JonesSJ]

I'm looking at applying for a PhD in Hebrew Bible/Jewish studies in the next year or two. I have several credit hours in Biblical Hebrew and Koine Greek under my belt and I'm trying to add some element of theological German to my proficiencies. However, it might be difficult for me to do German through my school. Has anyone turned to resources outside of their schools to get some experience with research languages before applying to your PhD, and if so, where did you go? 

[Dumbyguppy]

Find someone on dating app speaking the target language. Great, free, easy practice opportunity.

[Ellie_Li]

For me it might be a good idea to seek help from your local theological academy(if there is one).  Or you could try to contact nearby college and ask if they have language class you are interested in and request to audit. Good luck!

[SemperDiscentes]

@JonesSJ

For learning German as 'research language' (i.e., for reading), consider Learning German Quickly, which is the standard text for many in theology, philosophy, and literature. It is tailored to graduate students learning the language in order to develop reading competency (e.g., it includes exercise with writers from like Nietzsche, Goethe, and Max Weber). 

Besides paying for language courses (very pricey) or traveling abroad (also pricey), you'll most likely have to construct some program of self-study. 

P.S. There are places that teach theological German over the summer, but these are either in Germany (e.g., Mainz) or in one or two places in the U.S. (Yale and U-Chicago?).

[JonesSJ]

Thanks y'all, I ended up taking an online course for German reading through the University of Wisconsin. If anyone is looking at summer language courses through universities but are worried about cost like I was, I highly recommend checking out Wisconsin as their prices are a lot better than anyone else's.