The University started the Diploma Course in German in 1954-55 with the help of part-time teachers. It became a full-fledged Department in 1958-59. The Advanced Diploma Course in German was introduced in 1969. German is also offered as the second language at a number of affiliated colleges under the Jurisdiction of Osmania University.

Since its inception, the Department cooperated with the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), New Delhi, and various other agencies associated with promoting this language.