This master's degree programme, taught entirely in English and directed to international applicants, provides an opportunity to study English from a variety of literary and linguistic perspectives.

The objectives of the Programme include in-depth understanding of the multifacetedness of contemporary English studies, increased awareness of key debates in contemporary linguistics and ability to carry out independent research.

During their studies, students will specialize in linguistics or literary and cultural studies. In linguistics, these include dialectology, language contact, language variation and change, pragmatics and bilingualism. As for the literary and cultural studies, the Department's areas of strength include – among others - postcolonial and ethnic literatures, American literature, popular fiction, and contemporary fiction.

Admission requirements

• A recognized BA degree (or MA degree) in the area of English Language and Literature, English Linguistics, or English Translation.

• English language proficiency

Minimum requirements for the language skills verified through the official language tests are as follows:

• IELTS (Academic): 7.0/6.5 in writing
• TOEFL PBT: 600/5 in writing
• TOEFL iBT: 100/24 in writing
• PTE (Academic): 68

Applicants who have completed their secondary education or BA/MA degree in English in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom or the United States, do not have to take a language test. Similarly, students who have successfully completed English studies in the School of Humanities of the University of Eastern Finland (formerly University of Joensuu) as an exchange student, are exempt from the language test.

Along with the introduction of the tuition fees, University of Eastern Finland will provide an attractive scholarship scheme for 50% of the students admitted to the programme. The scholarship will consist of 80-100% exemption from the tuition fees. A scholarship will be awarded for two academic years, however obtaining the scholarship for the second year will be conditioned by the progress of student's studies and his/her general academic performance during the first study year.

Application period for the scholarship is the same as for the admission: 1.12.2016-13.1.2017.

The Philosophical Faculty may, in some cases, award an additional scholarship helping to cover student's living expenses in Finland, which may apply to both student groups: from EU, as well as no EU/EEA countries. The student shall apply for the financial aid from the faculty during the application period by submitting a separate letter as an application enclosure.

Notifications concerning scholarships and other additional financial support will be sent to the admitted students together with the official acceptance letter.