English Studies and American Studies

The Bachelor's degree in English Studies at the University of Jena offers students a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the English language, literature, culture, and linguistics. This programme is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the core areas of English language(s) and literary studies, enabling them to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and intercultural competence. Throughout the course of study, students engage with a wide range of texts, from classical to contemporary, and explore linguistic theories that underpin language use and communication. The programme encourages active participation and fosters the ability to conduct independent research, evaluate sources critically, and communicate effectively in spoken and written English. Students also have opportunities to specialise in particular interests such as literary analysis, cultural studies, language acquisition, or translation studies.

The curriculum combines theoretical courses with practical applications, preparing graduates for diverse career paths including education, translation, journalism, publishing, international business, or further academic research. The programme emphasizes intercultural understanding and the importance of language proficiency in a globalized world. Students benefit from the university’s strong ties to research institutions and its active international exchange programmes, which enhance their global outlook and employability. The programme includes lectures, seminars, workshops, and project work, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Students are encouraged to participate in internships, academic projects, and language immersion programmes to gain real-world experience. Upon graduation, students are well-equipped with advanced knowledge of English language and literature, essential research skills, and intercultural sensitivity, opening doors to various professional opportunities or further postgraduate study. The Bachelor's in English Studies at the University of Jena represents an ideal choice for students passionate about English language and culture who aim to develop their academic and professional skills in an international and supportive academic environment.

The Bachelor’s degree programs in English Studies and American Studies at the University of Jena offer students an in-depth exploration of the English language, literature, and cultural contexts, both in its British and American forms. The English Studies program provides a comprehensive overview of the history, structure, and usage of the English language, alongside detailed studies of English and Irish literature from different periods. Students engage with core linguistic theory, language acquisition, and applied linguistics, preparing them for careers in translation, teaching, or international communication. The program emphasizes critical reading, analytical writing, and oral presentation skills to foster effective communication and cultural awareness.

The American Studies program complements this by focusing on the history, society, politics, and cultural developments of the United States. Students analyze American literature, media, and film, gaining insights into American cultural identities, social movements, and historical contexts. Both programs include modules on intercultural competence, enabling students to understand and interpret cultural differences and similarities. Interdisciplinary in nature, the curricula incorporate perspectives from history, sociology, political science, and media studies.

Throughout their studies, students have the opportunity to participate in language courses, practical workshops, and international exchange programs, enhancing their linguistic proficiency and intercultural skills. The programs aim to prepare graduates for diverse professional fields, including education, media, translation, international relations, and cultural management. Emphasis is placed on developing research skills, critical thinking, and adaptability to prepare students for the global job market. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring students are well-equipped to engage with the complexities of English and American cultures in a globalized world.

Language requirements

Applicants have to prove their English proficiency by providing one of the following certificates:

• TOEFL: paper based = 600; computer based = 250; Internet based = 100
• IELTS (academic or general test): level at least 7.0
• Cambridge Proficiency Exam (passed)
• Trinity Ca'Foscari Certification C1 (passed)

Academic requirements

Open to students with undergraduate studies in: English studies, American studies, similar disciplines (humanities, esp. philology)

Enrolment fees

Semester fee (Student Services and Student Self-Government) including semester ticket for free use of public transport: approx. 190 EUR per semester and a one-off fee of 20 EUR for a multifunctional student ID card (Thoska)

Costs of living

We recommend that you budget at least 600 EUR per month for accommodation and food, and for books a further 50 EUR per semester.

Arrival support

Students are advised to arrive at Jena University by 1 October for the winter semester. Before classes start Jena University offers an orientation week in order to introduce international students to the city and university. Information about the orientation week is sent with the letter of admission.

Services and support for international students

At the Friedrich Schiller University Jena, the International Office assists all international students and can direct them to the department responsible for answering any questions they may have. Jena University has ERASMUS agreements with more than 200 European partners and 30 bilateral agreements with partners in Eastern and South-Eastern Europe, the USA, Canada, and Japan. 2,200 international students come from 85 countries.
There is a comprehensive programme of counselling, administrative support, language courses, and tutoring for incoming students. The International Office also arranges accommodation for students who come to Jena on exchange or scholarship programmes.
The rooms in the student residences are distributed by Student Services ("Studentenwerk Thueringen": http://www.stw-thueringen.de). Private apartments are also available, but students must find them on their own. Student tutors assist incoming students by meeting them at the train station, showing them to their rooms, introducing them to the university and its facilities, familiarising them with the city of Jena, introducing them to student life, and helping them with their paperwork. Student associations and groups offer a wide variety of joint activities and events, tandem language courses, concerts, excursions, etc., all of which help the international students to feel welcome and integrated. The Language Centre offers German language courses at several different levels.

Accommodation

Accommodation in student residences is available. Please apply at the "Studentenwerk Thüringen" (http://www.stw-thueringen.de).
For further information, please visit our website at http://www.stw-thueringen.de/english/housing/wohnen.html.

You can also look for single or shared private accommodation yourself. In the buildings of the university, there are numerous information boards with accommodation offers. Note, however, that the availability of private accommodation in Jena is rather limited.