This English-taught Master’s programme combines advanced study of the English language with critical, research-based analysis of anglophone literatures and cultures from the Middle Ages to the present. Coursework covers contemporary approaches to describing and analysing English alongside in-depth literary and cultural study, preparing you to engage with current scholarly debates in the field.
The curriculum is flexible: you can take a broad, interdisciplinary route or concentrate on one of two tracks—linguistics or literature and cultural studies—depending on your interests and career goals. The degree places particular emphasis on demanding, practice-oriented language courses, so students are expected to arrive with a very high level of English.
Interdisciplinary cooperation with other departments (German Linguistics, German Literature, History and Geography) broadens the range of modules available in literature and cultural studies. Note, however, that most offerings provided by those partner departments are delivered in German, so knowledge of German will increase the variety of courses you can take.
Requirements (concise)
This master's program welcomes applicants who have completed an undergraduate degree that provides a solid foundation in the study of English-language literature, language, and culture. Typical entrants hold bachelor's degrees in English studies or American studies; comparable degrees in closely related humanities subjects are also considered.
If your prior degree is in another humanities discipline, admissions will look for substantial overlap with topics like philology, linguistics, literary and cultural studies, or language-focused coursework. International applicants should ensure their bachelor's qualification is recognized as equivalent to a German undergraduate degree and contact the admissions office if unsure about fit.
Admission requirements (summary)
Winter Semester (International)
31 May 2026
Summer Semester (International)
15 January 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
31 August 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
15 January 2027
Graduates are well placed for careers that value strong analytical, communicative and intercultural skills. Typical paths include roles in education and teaching, publishing and editorial work, cultural institutions and museums, media and communications, and international organisations or NGOs. The programme's emphasis on both research methods and advanced language competence also prepares students for research assistant posts and further academic study.
For students aiming to remain in academia, the MA provides a solid foundation for doctoral research in linguistics, literary studies or cultural studies. The combination of disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary options makes graduates attractive to employers in both public and private sectors seeking expertise in anglophone language, literature and culture.