Language osmosis, or immersion without prior study, is a process of natural language learning in a German-speaking country or 100% German environment. This can be achieved by living in Germany or Austria and trying to soak up the language -- listening to people talk on the street, paying attention to signs, watching German TV, listening to German radio and trying to interact with people and learning from your mistakes and interactions with them.
Simulated immersion is a popular mode of German language study in computer software programs such as Rosetta Stone or Instant Immersion. The programs use pictures and images to build associations in the mind of the user. One example is a picture of a man that appears on the screen next to the German word for man. The associations then become increasingly complex. For example, in a subsequent picture the man is running, putting on blue socks or performing another action. These types of programs focus on building reading, writing and speaking skills.
A particularly good option for university bound people wishing to learn German is to study a bachelor's degree in German. Students start out with classes that teach the fundamentals of the German language and then progress into more advanced topics like German grammar and composition. Students then refine their German language skills by taking required or elective courses in German literature, linguistics and culture. An additional opportunity for German majors is a year of study abroad at a German-speaking university. Many U.S. universities offer study abroad programs in Germany or will recognize the credits earned at another university's study abroad program in Germany.
One good way to learn German is to study the language and then spend some time abroad. This may mean studying German in a group class setting, with audio tapes and grammar books or one of a variety of other methods. The goal of this is to build a solid foundation in the German language. Once this has been achieved, you can then spend some time studying, working or simply vacationing abroad with the aim of interacting with German speakers on a daily basis, practicing and refining what you already know as well as and adding to your knowledge.