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Master's programme

German and Comparative Literature University of Bonn

Duration
4 semesters
Language of instruction
German
English
Tuition fees
Tuition varies
Fees may vary. Exemptions or additional costs may apply.
Next application deadline
30 June 2027 (winter semester)
Language level required
English: C1
German: C1

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Programme overview

Quick facts

Degree
MA
Duration
4 semesters
Full-time / part-time
Full-time
Intake
Winter semester
Joint degree / double degree programme
Yes
A Diploma supplement will be issued
Yes
Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
No

Language of instruction

  • German
  • English

In the first year of studies at the University of Bonn, modules are taught in German (four modules). 

At the University of St Andrews, modules are taught in English (two modules). 

Each student writes a Master's thesis in English if the chosen topic is a comparative one. If the student chooses to write on a German topic, the thesis can be written either in English or German.

Programme description

The MA/MLitt in German and Comparative Literature is a two-year programme run jointly by the School of Modern Languages at St Andrews and the University of Bonn. By studying both German Studies and Comparative Literature in Germany and Scotland, students gain profound insight into two academic cultures, two countries, and two languages.

Students spend their first year in Germany and the second year in Scotland. In St Andrews, the second semester will be spent focused on writing an 18,000-word dissertation under joint supervision by supervisors from St Andrews and Bonn. Dissertations on comparative topics are written in English. Those on German topics may be written either in English or German. 

Programme structure

The aim of this double-degree course of study is to give students insights into Literary and Cultural Studies with regard to both content and methods. The intercultural character of this programme offers an enriching dual perspective based on the different academic traditions in German and British research. By spending a substantial amount of time in Germany and in Scotland, students will be able to immerse themselves fully in the academic life of both countries.

Mode of study

  • Fully on-site

In cooperation with

University of St Andrews

International elements in the curriculum

The curriculum of this study programme includes international elements that support global perspectives and cross-cultural learning:

  • International guest lecturers
  • Integrated/optional study abroad unit(s)

    Students spent the second year of the programme (semester three & semester four) at the University of St Andrews.

  • Specialist literature in other languages
  • International comparisons and thematic reference to the international context

Application and admission

Application period(s)

Winter semester

Applicants from Applications begin Application deadline
All countries
1 May 2027
30 June 2027
Information on application periods

Academic admissions requirements

This course is open to applicants with a previous undergraduate degree in German, Comparative Literature or a related discipline such as English Studies.

Language requirements

Please check all requirements directly with the respective higher education institution. Exceptions may apply. See our website for further details.

German language requirements

German: C1

Accepted certificates include
Certificates Minimum result
Goethe-Zertifikat
Total: Goethe-Zertifikat C1
Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (DSH)
Total: DSH-3
UNIcert® Deutsch
Total: UNIcert® III

English language requirements

English: C1

Accepted certificates include
Certificates Minimum result
UNIcert® English
Total: UNIcert® III
ISE (paper edition)
Total: ISE III
Cambridge English Qualifications
Total: C1 Advanced
TOEFL iBT (before 2026)
Total: 91 / 120
Reading: 16 / 30
Listening: 16 / 30
Writing: 26 / 30
Speaking: 19 / 30
PTE Academic
Total: 76 / 90
IELTS Academic
Total: 7 / 9

How to apply?

Website

Please check this website.

Click here

Costs and funding

Tuition fees per semester

Varied Tuition fees may vary depending on the course of study or other factors (e.g. part-time/full-time, duration of study, ECTS, study abroad). For an exact breakdown of costs, please consult the programme website.

Tuition fee exemptions apply to

More information on tuition fees

Semester contribution

All students pay approx. 350 EUR per semester at the University of Bonn. 

At St Andrews, the tuition fees vary: German and UK students pay the home fees of 6,930 GBP, all other students have to pay the overseas fees of 25,900 GBP.

Cost of living

For the time in Germany, please consider this model calculation: https://www.study-in-germany.de/en/plan-your-studies/preparation/funding/.

For the estimated cost of attendance in St Andrews, please refer to this site: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/students/money/internationalstudents/pgcoa/.

Scholarships and financing information

Students have the opportunity to receive a faculty scholarship (200 EUR/month for nine months) for the period of study at St Andrews. The scholarship is awarded based on the student's performance in their first semester.

Special promotion / funding of the programme

  • DAAD
    Integrierte internationale Studiengänge mit Doppelabschluss

Living & services

Support for international students

  • Welcome event
  • Buddy programme

Support for specific needs

Career advisory services

The Careers Centre in St Andrews offers one-to-one advice to all students as well as a programme of events to assist students in building their employability skills. 

The Career Service of the University of Bonn further offers similar services such as one-to-one advice to all students as well as events to assist students in building their employability skills.

Accommodation

Accommodation is not guaranteed, but both institutions will provide students with guidance on how to secure accommodation.

Contact

Main contact

Abteilung für Vergleichende Literaturwissenschaft / Komparatistik

Name
Dr Anne Scheuss
Address
Rabinstraße 8, 53113 Bonn
Email
E-mail

Additional contact

Name
Matthias Beckonert
Email
E-mail

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Always know what comes next

Study Guide gives you a personal to-do list tailored to your background, qualifications and interests, so you always know what to do next.