Master of Arts in English Literature and Culture Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz

The course of study lasts four semesters and consists of seven modules that offer a programme focused on literature and cultural studies. It provides advanced knowledge of the diverse aspects of British society within literary, historical, political, and cultural contexts. The programme focuses on the cultural area of the British Isles and countries that have been influenced by Great Britain. Depending on their interests, students can either maintain the broad focus of the BA programme by combining modules II and IV, or they can study an epoch or theme more in detail. This allows students to tailor their academic journey according to their individual preferences and academic pursuits.

In addition, an interdisciplinary module allows students to explore the traditions and diversifications of Anglophone literature, cultures, and languages in more detail. The complementary and interdisciplinary orientation of the Master's programme is supplemented by elective courses from related disciplines. The aim is to complement and expand the desired research perspective within specific areas of British Studies. This is achieved through a combination of comprehensive and interdisciplinary teaching methods and research opportunities.

Another important component of the research-oriented Master's programme is the "research workshop" module as well as the associated courses in theory and methodology. Similar to the "professional orientation" module, this module particularly emphasises the early involvement of students in research projects within the field of British Studies. It thus serves as an introduction to independent scholarly work.

You can find the recommended study plan at the following link:
https://www.english-and-linguistics.uni-mainz.de/files/2025/10/2025_MA-ELC_SVP.pdf.

No internships are required, but they are highly recommended.
The university's career service can help. Please see the following link:
https://www.blogs.uni-mainz.de/career-eng/.

1. The subject-specific entrance requirements for the Master's programme in English Literature and Culture include the completion of a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature and Culture or in a related field (BEd English, BA British Studies, BA British and American Studies, etc.) or an equivalent degree from a higher education institution in Germany or abroad. At least ten credit points must have been earned in the field of English studies. The relevant proof must be provided with your application in the form of a notarised copy of your degree certificate, including a convincing and notarised overview of courses attended in the field of English Studies (diploma supplements, transcript).
2. We expect applicants to have a very good active and passive knowledge of English.
3. If applicants have earned fewer than ten credit points in the field of English Literature and Culture at the time of application, they may, by way of derogation from the standard rule in section two, subsection four, sentence four, MAPO (examination regulations), be admitted to the programme on the condition that they take part in an obligatory individual advising session according to section one, subsection one. After the appointment, applicants may be required to attend additional courses from the Bachelor's programme in English Literature and Culture in order to be admitted to the Master's programme. 
4. The obligatory individual advising according to section one, subsection three normally takes place 14 days before the start of the winter or summer semester. The applicant will be invited to the appointment by mail and/or by e-mail at least 14 calendar days before the appointment date.  
5. Coursework and examinations can only be recognised once per programme of study. Multiple recognition of coursework and examinations is not possible.

The Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz charges an administrative fee of approx. 350 EUR per semester. This includes a public transport ticket, which allows you to use buses, trams, regional trains and the underground for free in Germany ("Deutschlandticket").

You can find further information about funding opportunities at this link:
https://www.studium.uni-mainz.de/en/during-your-studies/organizing-your-studies/financial-matters/#apply-for-a-scholarship.

The career service centre at Johannes Gutenberg University supports students and graduates in choosing their careers, planning their professional futures, and acquiring interdisciplinary skills. The centre offers a variety of services, such as counselling, workshops, and recruiting events. More information is available here.

You can find information about accommodation at the following link:
https://www.studium.uni-mainz.de/en/student-life/.