Program Overview

Master's in English

The Master's in English program at the University of Bern is designed to refine students' theoretical knowledge and methodological skills in the field of English language and literatures. The program offers a deeper dive into the complexities of the English language and its literatures, allowing students to uncover their own interests in areas such as sociolinguistics, discourse studies, medieval or modern English studies, North American literature and culture, or literary theory.

Program Structure

The MA major program consists of 90 ECTS credits, covering three semesters of courses (seminars and lectures) and a final semester devoted to the MA thesis. The program is divided into three phases:

1. Induction Phase: Students complete the Foundation Lecture Literary Theory and the Foundation Lecture Language and Society.
2. Focussing Phase: Students complete four graded seminars, one ungraded lecture, and attend at least three guest lectures.
3. Completion Phase: Students complete the Research Module, which consists of the MA Colloquium and the MA Thesis.

Requirements for MA Major (90 ECTS)

• 2 Foundation Lectures (4 ECTS each)
• 4 seminars (7 ECTS each, at least three within the chosen specialization)
• MA Thesis (30 ECTS, within the chosen specialization)
• 1 lecture (3 ECTS)
• 3 guest lecture attendances (1 ECTS)
• 3 MA colloquia (6 ECTS, within the chosen specialization)
• Optional ungraded credits must be acquired from courses on offer within the department or in the form of Independent Studies (14 ECTS).

Requirements for MA Minor (30 ECTS)

• 1 foundation lecture (4 ECTS)
• 1 seminar (7 ECTS)
• 3 lectures (3 ECTS each)
• 3 guest lecture attendances (1 ECTS)
• Optional ungraded credits must be acquired from courses on offer within the department or in the form of Independent Studies (9 ECTS).

Combination Possibilities

The major in English can be combined with any minor taught at the University of Bern, with the exception of the same special qualification or emphasis.

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor of Arts in Languages and Literatures in English from the University of Bern or an equivalent degree.
• Additional attainments of up to 60 ECTS credits may be required.
• The bachelor's degree may not be more than ten years old. Exceptions are possible where justified.

Language Requirements

• It is strongly recommended that students obtain a qualification in a classical language (Latin and/or Greek).
• For international students, evidence of English language proficiency is required, with minimum grades in TOEFL or IELTS tests.

Application and Admission

• General admission requirements
• Application and admission with a Swiss degree
• Application and admission with an international degree

After Your Master's

Students who have obtained their MA in English find employment in a wide range of fields and institutions related to education, research, publishing, journalism, and public administration. The Students' Committee regularly organizes Alumni events to learn more about possible careers.