Entry requirements and application process

Requirements

Students need to fulfill the following requirements for entry to the programme:

A grade corresponding to at least 2.5 of the German system in their first degree (if in doubt contact the Admissions Department for an assessment of your previous degree).

Proficiency in English equivalent to C1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages. This level corresponds approximately to a minimum of 7 in the IELTS system, or 110 in TOEFL (see link for conversion tables; if in doubt contact the Admissions Dept.).

A minimum of 30 ECTS points in core areas of linguistics, successfully achieved in your first degree. Core areas of linguistics means areas like: phonetics and phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics, language typology, language acquisition, language history or language contact. Note that this would not include courses such as: intercultural communication, translation studies, literature and stylistics, or general courses in e.g. English language proficiency. If in doubt regarding your eligibility, please contact student counselling, enclosing a copy of your transcript of records prior to commencing the application process. We will assess your eligibility and advise you accordingly. 

Note that if you have less than 30 ECTS in core linguistic topics, but more than 22, you may be eligible for admission under the condition that you attend one additional module from the Bachelor in General Linguistics in your first two semesters; please contact us if you are unsure of your eligibility.

For details regarding the structure and content of the academic program, please see the Module Handbook.

Application

You have to formally apply for admission to the MA prgramme. If you have ensured your eligibility according to the requirements above, you should begin the application process. This process is administered by the central admissions office of the university; please follow the link of the University of Bamberg for further information. 

Application deadlines: It is recommended to submit the complete application no later than 15 July (for winter semester studies) or 15 January (for summer semester studies).

Do I need German language skills?

The masters degree program "General Linguistics" is fully taught in English. Therefore, you do not need a German language certificate such as the DSH Test (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang) to be admitted to the masters program. Instead, on application you must provide proof of your English language skills as specified above.