English: Language, Literatures and Cultures University of Göttingen
- Duration
- 4 semesters
- Language of instruction
- English
- Tuition fees
- No tuition fees
- Next application deadline
- 1 December 2026 (summer semester)
- Language level required
- English: C1German: None
Programme overview
Quick facts
- Degree
- MA
- Duration
- 4 semesters
- Full-time / part-time
- Full-time
- Intake
- Winter and summer semester
- Joint degree / double degree programme
- No
- A Diploma supplement will be issued
- Yes
- Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
- No
Language of instruction
Core-curriculum courses are held in English only. Students with no or few German language skills are required to take German language courses, which are taught in German. Students are advised that with no or little German it may be difficult to find employment in Germany.
Programme description
Students can choose between a Single Honours Master's programme and a Joint Honours Master's programme.
For the Single Honours MA programme, students complete a total of 78 credits (plus 30 for the MA thesis) from the curriculum offered by the Department of English. In addition to modules on Academic Writing, Cultural and Institution or Advanced Practical English Language, students can choose from modules on Anglophone Literature and Culture, North American Studies, Medieval English Studies, and Modern English Linguistics. Students may specialise in the following particular areas that may be certified:
- Anglophone Literature and Culture
- Studies in (North American and English) Literature and Culture
- Literary and Cultural Management, a study focus which includes modules on literary analysis as well as practical modules on the literature industry
- English Language in Focus (Linguistics and Medieval English Studies)
Students may also combine modules from all areas in order to cover a broad range of various topics. Basic modules stress the survey aspect of training, while advanced modules focus on in-depth analysis. This study option is suited for anyone who wishes to broaden their knowledge in various fields relating to the subject before deciding which field to choose for an MA thesis.
For the Joint Honours MA in English: Language, Literatures and Cultures, students have to choose at least one other subject. This can be closely related (e.g. North American Studies) or completely unrelated (e.g. Law or German History); any combination is acceptable, provided that the subject is offered as a 36-credit module package at the University of Göttingen.
In their course of study, students can choose between four study varieties:
- across the disciplines
- with a focus on either literary or language studies
- with a focus on Anglophone literature and culture
- with a focus on English language theory and history
Obligatory modules include advanced courses on English language and on culture and institutions of the UK or the USA. Elective modules depend on the kind of specialisation students wish to acquire. In studying across the disciplines, students can choose between basic and advanced modules in English and postcolonial literature and culture, North American literature and culture, modern English linguistics, and the history of English. Students whose interests lie in either English / North American literature or in language studies can opt for a large variety of modules on offer in the respective disciplines.
The Department of English also offers three module packages (minor subjects) to be taken in combination with a 42-credit (Joint Honours) MA programme.
Programme structure
Students are relatively free in their combination of courses and modules. We suggest that basic modules be taken before advanced modules are tackled. The organisation of modules depends largely on which study option is chosen.
Part-time studies are possible.
Mode of study
- Less than 50% onlinePhase of attendance: yes, compulsoryPace of course: instructor-led (specific due dates for lectures/assignments/exams)
International elements in the curriculum
The curriculum of this study programme includes international elements that support global perspectives and cross-cultural learning:
- Language training provided
- International guest lecturers
- Specialist literature in other languages
Integrated internships
Students opting for the Literary and Cultural Management area can complete an eight- to twelve-week internship in Germany or abroad (e.g. in house museums, at the management of a literary festival, in a publishing company, etc.) as part of their curriculum. Other internships can also be credited in the curriculum. Students can be assisted in finding a suitable place. Note that good German language skills are essential for internships in Germany.
Application and admission
Application period(s)
Winter semester
| Applicants from | Applications begin | Application deadline | |
|---|---|---|---|
All countries
|
1 April 2027
|
1 June 2027
|
Summer semester
| Applicants from | Applications begin | Application deadline | |
|---|---|---|---|
All countries
|
1 October 2026
|
1 December 2026
|
Academic admissions requirements
BA degree in English Studies or a related subject (180 ECTS)
A minimum of 50 ECTS in modules relating to English as an academic subject are required. The clear majority of these must be on subject-specific aspects (e.g. language theory, literary and cultural developments, history of English, literary theory), not on areas of use of English. See also the section on language requirements.
Language requirements
German language requirements
English language requirements
Accepted certificates include
| Certificates | Minimum result |
|---|---|
TOEFL iBT (before 2026)
|
Total: 93 / 120
Reading: 24 / 30
Listening: 22 / 30
Writing: 24 / 30
Speaking: 25 / 30
|
PTE Academic
|
Total: 76 / 90
|
IELTS Academic
|
Total: 7 / 9
|
How to apply?
Costs and funding
Tuition fees per semester
No tuition fees
Semester contribution
Fees are around 460 EUR per semester. This usually includes a prepaid semester ticket which entitles students to use regional trains in Germany free of charge as well as regional buses. University of Göttingen students also receive discounts or free entry to many cultural events in the city. Meals are available at reduced prices at university canteens.
Cost of living
The average cost of living in Göttingen is modest compared to other major university cities in Germany. Currently, expenses for accommodation, food, health insurance and books are about 800 to 1,000 EUR per month. Please note that fees for health insurance may vary according to age. International students should note that it is not possible to study in Germany without sufficient financing.
Further information on the requirements for non-EU citizens (proof of finances) can be found on the Visa and Residence Permit page of the International Office.
Part-time employment
The university supports students in finding part-time jobs in local industries and businesses. A number of student jobs are also available at the university. They are announced on the following website: http://www.stellenwerk-goettingen.de.
Please note that restrictions may apply with your scholarship or visa. Non-EU students are subject to special regulations.
Some proficiency in German may be indispensable to find a job. Non-EU students are permitted to work a maximum of 120 full days (240 half days) per year.
Scholarships and financing information
Germany scholarship: Deutschlandstipendium
Lower Saxony scholarship: Niedersachsenstipendium
Living & services
Support for international students
- Welcome event
- Buddy programme
- Tutors
- Specialist counselling
- Cultural and linguistic preparation
The International Office provides services for international students.
German students help newly arrived students to adapt to the university and the city in the first weeks.
An orientation week for international students provides information about university and city.
Study Buddy Programme: part of the project Integration and Diversity at Göttingen University (InDiGU)
Foyer International: activities for all students
German courses during studies (free of charge)
Support for specific needs
Studying with a disability
The university provides services here.
Refugee programme
The contact person for refugees is Nandita Isloorkar.
E-mail: international.study@uni-goettingen.deStudying with a family
The University of Göttingen supports the compatibility of academic studies / research / work life, family and private life and aims to organise studies, research and work in a way that is compatible with family and private life.
Information for international students with children
Course-specific language courses available
Career advisory services
The Career Service of the university offers individual support for the job entry. Especially for international students aiming for a career entry in Germany, the Career Service provides topic-specific workshops, online learning modules, and a qualification programme.
If you are interested in the topic of founding a company, start-up support is offered! The university supports you with advice, funding, qualification formats and network contacts.
Start-up support
Accommodation
The Accommodation Service of the International Office supports international students who are enrolled at the University of Göttingen in finding accommodation and serves as a point of contact for related queries. The Accommodation Service also publishes suitable offers from private landlords in Göttingen and collaborates with the Student Services ("Studierendenwerk"). As the number of available accommodation options in Göttingen is limited, it is highly recommended to contact the Accommodation Service as early as possible.
Contact
Department of English
- Name
- Dr Frauke Reitemeier
- Adresse
- Käte-Hamburger-Weg 3, 37073 Göttingen
Additional contact
- Name
- Katharina Nambula
- Telefon
- +49 5513929002