Master of Arts in Linguistics and Literature (English)

The programme in Language and Literature has been adapted to meet the demands and societal needs of our time. Language proficiency is one of the cornerstones of our information society. Due to increased mobility and the expansion of international contacts, possessing highly developed language skills is becoming ever more important. However, effective communication is not merely a matter of linguistic competence. It equally relies on a broad, open-minded perspective on the societal context in which language use and communication occur, a sound knowledge of cultural and especially literary heritage, and a thorough understanding of linguistic structures.

The master's programme offers specialised courses in linguistics or literary studies. These courses address topics from a specific theoretical or societal angle. Teaching takes the form of seminars, with active student participation through discussions, presentations, and papers. In this way, we aim to stimulate and challenge your academic creativity.

The programme consists of:

• 30 credits of English Linguistics and Literature courses;
• 15 credits of elective courses, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests;
• 15 credits for the master’s dissertation, for which students are free to choose their own research topic in linguistics.

Your in-depth academic training, strong language skills, refined linguistic sensitivity, and solid understanding of both literary and non-literary texts—combined with general competencies such as creativity, problem-solving ability, and a lifelong learning mindset—will equip you for a wide range of sectors.

1. Language education is a well-known career path. There is a growing demand for young language teachers in secondary education. Higher education, adult education, and language training within large companies also offer many opportunities.
2. A second major sector is professional communication, where your language skills are used for internal and external communication within private companies or public institutions. Roles include editor (of reports, brochures, press releases, etc.), proofreader, spokesperson, language coordinator, or translator.
3. A third sector is the broad field of culture, ranging from museums and libraries to cultural centres, events, publishing houses, and literary organisations. Closely related is the media sector, including traditional print and audiovisual media as well as media focused on professional sectors or leisure.
4. Many Language and Literature alumni find themselves in coordinating roles within public services. Their communication skills, sense of nuance, and problem-solving abilities are highly valued in such positions.
5. Graduates with a particular interest in the theoretical study of language or literature may pursue academic research, which offers attractive prospects.