Intercultural Anglophone Studies

Intercultural Anglophone Studies at the University of Bayreuth offers students a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of English-speaking cultures, societies, and communication. This interdisciplinary program is designed to develop advanced language skills, intercultural competence, and critical thinking abilities, enabling graduates to navigate and analyze diverse cultural contexts effectively. Through a combination of linguistics, cultural studies, literature, and media analysis, students gain a broad understanding of the socio-cultural dynamics of anglophone countries. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, including language proficiency, intercultural dialogue, and research skills. Students have opportunities to participate in international exchanges, internships, and project work to enhance their intercultural understanding and professional readiness. The program prepares graduates for careers in international companies, translation, media, education, or further academic research. With small class sizes and close faculty mentorship, students receive personalized support and guidance throughout their studies. The university’s strong international network and focus on multilingualism create an ideal environment for students aspiring to work in globalised contexts. Graduates of Intercultural Anglophone Studies emerge equipped with the linguistic expertise, cultural awareness, and intercultural communication skills necessary to succeed in a variety of international sectors. The program consistently updates its curriculum to reflect current trends and demands in global intercultural communication, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of a rapidly changing world. Enrolling in this program offers a unique opportunity to engage deeply with the diverse worlds of the English-speaking nations while developing competencies that are highly valued internationally.

Educational organisation

MAIAS is structured in five module areas: "Foundations", "Second Foreign Language", "Intermediate Level", "Advanced Level", "MA thesis module". The module areas consist of two to five separate modules.
Modules are taught as "core issues" seminars, intensive seminars, advanced seminars, elective seminars, lectures, and as a Master's thesis seminar.

Study abroad unit(s)

• Postgraduate study exchange with several British universities and with George Washington University (Washington, USA) and research centres; tuition waiver in most exchanges mostly for EU students, occasionally also for non-EU students
• Dual degree programmes: Shanghai International Studies University (PR China); Fu Jen Catholic University (Taipei, Taiwan); University of Chester (UK); Moscow City Pedagogical University (Russia, only linguistics)

Forms of assessment

Term papers, academic essays, written assignments, written exams, oral presentations, oral exam, MA thesis

Course objectives

As the MAIAS programme is geared toward advanced competences and skills, students are well-prepared for careers and positions in the academic world, in business, or the increasingly important forums of cross-cultural exchange. In particular, they find attractive career options in research and teaching, media and journalism, publishing, new media, international cultural institutions, cultural management, intercultural consulting, service, and trade.
The programme is designed to enable students to work independently toward research goals, to present their results coherently and effectively, and to critically evaluate scholarly contributions from other authors. After the successful completion of the Master's degree programme, students have the option to pursue a doctorate. Possible doctorate programmes for graduates include the international doctoral programme "Cultural Encounters" or the International Graduate School of African Studies at the University of Bayreuth.

Language requirements

English proficiency: TOEFL iBT minimum 92, IELTS 7.0.
German is not compulsory. German language modules may be taken in a language learning module.

Academic requirements

Bachelor of Arts in English/American Studies or related disciplines (with clearly above-average success)
TOEFL, minimum 92 points (iBT) or IELTS 7.0 or equivalent

Enrolment fees

Social fee: approx. 65 EUR per semester

Costs of living

Approx. 750 EUR per month to cover personal expenses

Job opportunities

Due to the intensive nature of the programme, students will have only limited time for part-time jobs.

Funding opportunities within the university

Students coming to Bayreuth from a partner university may have the opportunity to receive some financial support from the University of Bayreuth.
http://www.international-office.uni-bayreuth.de/en/05_Grants/index.html

Arrival support

The International Office with its Service for International Students (SIS) assists students before and upon arrival (mailing of information, pick-up service from the station). It offers assistance in all administrative matters including registration and enrolment.

Services and support for international students

The International Office with its Service for International Students (SIS) offers administrative, academic, and social support before and during the semester.

Accommodation

The International Office offers assistance in finding accommodation in a student residence (rent approx. 120 EUR to 200 EUR per month) or private accommodation (250 EUR to 400 EUR).
However, a search on the private market as a backup is advisable. You can find links to the private market on our website.