Program Overview

Program Overview

The Master's program "Literary Translation in Theory and Practice" is a German-taught master's program that combines the methodology of philology and translation criticism with the practical tools of literary translation.

Key Facts

• Degree: Master of Arts
• Duration: 4 Semesters
• Credits/ECTS: 120
• Teaching language: German
• Tuition fee: None
• Semester contribution: € 305,05
• Start of studies: Winter semester, Summer semester
• Part-time possible: Yes
• Institutions: Faculty of Arts, Institute of Classics, Institute of Romance Studies, Institute of Slavic Studies and Caucasus Studies

Programme Summary

The program builds on the tradition of translation in the Goethe period in Jena and Weimar, both in terms of content and the choice of locations. It provides close cooperation with the Klassik Stiftung Weimar, particularly with the Goethe-Schiller-Archive and the Duchess Anna Amalia Library. The program aims to equip graduates with in-depth methodological knowledge and advanced skills in philological text work and text editing, as well as skills to engage in literary translation as a professional activity.

Structure

• The program offers three possible specializations: Latin studies, Romance studies, and Slavic studies.
• Students define a language focus within the chosen language family.
• The curriculum includes 12 compulsory modules, with 4 modules in the chosen specialization.
• The program features master classes led by professional translators, an internship, and a master's thesis.
• A unique "e-portfolio" module allows students to manage and archive academic performances and work samples.

Special Features

• Genius loci of the "twin city" Weimar-Jena
• Cooperation with the Klassik Stiftung Weimar
• Language diversity with three specializations and various languages offered
• Close integration of theoretical and practical training
• Professional orientation and self-management
• Excellent research and expertise in literary translation
• Excellent teaching and a good supervisory relationship
• Internationality with opportunities for study abroad

Career Opportunities

Graduates are qualified for numerous fields of activity involving literary translation, including:

• Work in libraries, archives, and publishing houses
• Self-employment as a literary translator
• Adult education and knowledge management
• University research with the option of further academic qualification

Admission Requirements

• Undergraduate degree or equivalent in the chosen specialization
• Language proficiency proof on level C1 in the chosen specialization
• Proficiency in another foreign language on level B1
• International candidates must prove German language proficiency on the level C1/C2

Application Documents

• CV
• Motivation letter
• University entrance qualification certificate
• Previous university degrees earned
• Detailed transcript of records
• Proof of relevant work experience
• Proof of subject-specific practical experience
• Proof of language proficiency

Additional Application Documents for International Students

• Proof of German language proficiency
• Translation of foreign/external application documents
• Proof of grading system
• Certificate APS (for applicants from India, Vietnam, or China)
• University entrance exam (for applicants from certain countries)