Languages and Literatures in English

The Bachelor's degree in Languages and Literatures in English at the University of Bern offers students an in-depth exploration of the English language, its literary traditions, and cultural contexts. This comprehensive program aims to develop students' linguistic proficiency, critical analysis skills, and appreciation for diverse literary works from different periods and regions. Throughout the course of study, students engage with a wide range of texts, from classic and modern literature to contemporary media, gaining insights into historical, social, and ideological influences that shape English-speaking cultures.

The curriculum combines linguistic analysis, literary studies, and cultural studies, providing a well-rounded education in the field. Students learn to analyze language structures, interpret literary texts critically, and understand the cultural significance of literature and language in different contexts. Special emphasis is placed on developing advanced language skills, including reading, writing, speaking, and listening, with opportunities for practical application through seminars, workshops, and individual projects.

In addition to core courses, students have the flexibility to choose electives according to their interests, including topics such as English-language linguistics, literary theory, film studies, and intercultural communication. The program also fosters research skills through assignments, presentations, and a final thesis, encouraging students to explore areas of personal academic interest deeply.

Moreover, the program prepares graduates for diverse careers in fields such as education, publishing, international relations, media, and cultural management. The University of Bern provides an international and collaborative learning environment, supported by modern facilities and access to extensive resources, including libraries, digital archives, and language labs. Upon completion of this degree, students will have acquired sophisticated language competencies, critical thinking abilities, and a comprehensive understanding of English language and literature, equipping them for further studies or professional pursuits across various sectors.

The MA study programme (Major) consists of three semesters of courses (seminars and lectures) and a final semester devoted to the Master Thesis. A minimum of 76 credits have to be earned within the specialisation (e.g. linguistics), and another 10-14 in the other field (e.g. literature).

In the course of their studies MA Majors are required to complete the following graded modules:

• Foundation Lecture (4 ECTS; within chosen specialisation)
• 4 seminars (7 ECTS each; at least three within chosen specialisation)
• Master Thesis (30 ECTS; within chosen specialisation)

The following module is compulsory but ungraded:

• Master Forum (12 ECTS; within chosen specialisation)

Additional ungraded credits (Wahlleistungen Englische Sprach- und Literaturwissenschaft) have to be acquired from courses on offer within the department or in the form of independent studies (16 ECTS).

Major 90 ECTS credits with special qualification:

• Linguistics
• Literary Studies

The following academic qualifications are required for admission to the master's degree program in English Languages and Literatures (major):

• Curriculum vitae in table form with uninterrupted chronology of your education and academic studies up to the present incl. up-to-date passport photo (45 mm high by 35 mm wide)
• Motivation letter (incl. family name, given name, full address, e-mail address, date and signature and – if you have one – mobile phone number)
• If you are holding a bachelor degree's: Originally certified photocopies of your degree (e.g. diploma and diploma supplement). The correspondence of the photocopy to the original must be officially certified.
• Originals (stamped and signed) or originally certified photocopies of all official proofs of your achievements (transcripts) with grades/scores
• Grading system of the degree issuing university, if the grading system is different from ours. Our scale goes from 1 to 6, with 6 being excellent and grades below 4 being unsatisfactory.
• Brief description of the content/learning objectives of the different courses/lectures (annotated course catalog or module handbook)
• Originally certified translations of the original documents (e.g. diploma, diploma supplement, bachelor's or master's degree, transcripts of diploma records), if these are not written in German, English, French or Italian. These translations have to be inseparably connected with the originally certified photocopies of the original documents.
• Photocopy of your valid passport or identity card
• Application fee: CHF 105

The financing of the Languages and Literatures in English program at the University of Bern is primarily based on a combination of public funding, tuition fees, and supplementary financial support options. As a public university in Switzerland, the University of Bern benefits from government subsidies at the federal and cantonal levels, which help to subsidize the operational costs of the program. Tuition fees for international students are generally moderate compared to private institutions, and they are structured to ensure accessibility for students from diverse backgrounds.

Additionally, students may have access to various financial aid programs, including scholarships, grants, and bursaries offered by the university to support academic and living expenses. These financial aid opportunities are often merit-based or need-based and aim to promote diversity and equal access to higher education. International students are encouraged to explore external funding options, including government-sponsored scholarships from their home countries or international organizations.

Part-time work during the study period is also a common way for students to finance their education, and the University of Bern provides resources and guidance to help students find suitable employment opportunities within and around the campus. The university's commitment to supporting student finances emphasizes the importance of ensuring that talented applicants can undertake their studies without undue financial hardship.

Overall, the funding structure of the Languages and Literatures in English program is designed to make quality higher education accessible and sustainable, combining institutional resources with external support mechanisms to assist students throughout their academic journey.

The Bachelor’s degree program in Languages and Literatures in English at the University of Bern offers students a comprehensive education in the English language, its literatures, and cultural contexts. This program provides a solid foundation in linguistic theory, literary analysis, and intercultural communication, preparing graduates for diverse careers such as teaching, translation, editing, publishing, or further academic research. The curriculum includes the study of English language development, phonetics, syntax, and semantics, complemented by detailed analyses of classic and contemporary English literature. Students engage with a wide array of texts, genres, and periods, from medieval to modern, fostering critical reading and interpretative skills. The program emphasizes linguistic competence alongside literary and cultural knowledge, enabling students to understand the societal and historical contexts that have influenced English-speaking cultures. Courses are often offered in both language proficiency and literary studies, encouraging active participation, research skills, and academic writing. Practical components, such as language practice exercises, translation projects, and internships, are integrated to enhance employability. The program also promotes intercultural competence through modules on global English varieties and intercultural communication, reflecting the international nature of the English language today. Students have opportunities to participate in study-abroad exchanges, workshops, and seminars led by renowned scholars. The degree prepares graduates not only for professional careers but also for advanced studies, including Master’s and Ph.D. programs in linguistics, literature, or related fields. The University of Bern’s language center supports language learning with resources and instruction tailored to students’ needs. Overall, the program aims to develop versatile, culturally aware, and linguistically skilled individuals who can critically analyze texts and communicate effectively in diverse settings.