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Master of Literary Translation at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf

Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf

Germany, Düsseldorf

University Rank:#851

Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf offers the Master of Literary Translation as a full-time degree delivered on campus at its main campus in Düsseldorf, Germany. Taught in English and German and completed over 2 years, the program equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for literary translation and related professional fields. The next available intake begins on October 1, 2026.

About Master of Literary Translation

The Master Program in Literary Translation is offered in two variants: either with one source language (English, Spanish, or French) or two (English + Spanish, French, or Italian). In both variants the target language for translation is German. Over four semesters, both theoretical and practical sides of translation will be highlighted while accruing knowledge within literary- and cultural studies from the relevant source language(s). Graduates of the program will be prepared for professional employment as a literary translator.

Disciplines

Languages and cultural studies

Requirements and Admission Criteria for Master of Literary Translation at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf

Entry Requirements

The prerequisites for admission are the following: A successfully completed, relevant bachelors degree program (Minimum grade average 2,5) and a German university entrance qualification. Relevant Bachelor's Programs in the fields of foreign languages, linguistics and literature (at least 10 CP in language courses from selected source language(s) and at least 4 CP in linguistics and/or literary studies) may also be deemed acceptable. In some cases, parts of these requirements can be studied in the Masters' program. International applicants without a higher education entrance qualification from a German-speaking country must also have achieved German language proficiency at the C2 CEF level.

English Requirements

IELTSMin 6
TOEFLMin 75

English Program Requirements

Language certificate for English language (Level B2 / Common European Framework for Reference for Languages): We accept English tests covering all four academic skills (reading, listening, writing, and speaking):

IELTS (academic) minimum 6.0, including at least 6.0 in section “writing”
TOEFL iBt with 75 points minimum
We do not accept TOEIC

The language certificate must not be older than two years and the original certificate must be sent directly from the testing center to the European Studies programme in Düsseldorf. (TOEFL-Code: 3423)
No language test is required for native English speakers.

Career Opportunities after Completing Master of Literary Translation

Occupations within the German publication industry, which publish translations of English, French, Italian and Spanish literary texts, represent a suitable field of work. Graduates of the program can apply their competencies in European institutions of cultural mediation and further education as well as within European companies and European-oriented organizations. The integration of professionals from the translation, publishing and media sectors into the curriculum and supporting program, along with the program's partnership with the European Translator's College in Straelen guarantee a comprehensive career-oriented education.

FrenchOccupations within the German publication industry which publish translations of English Italian and Spanish literary texts represent a suitable field of work. Graduates of the program can apply their competencies in European institutions of cultural mediation and further education as well as within European companies and European-oriented organizations. The integration of professionals from the translation publishing and media sectors into the curriculum and supporting program along with the program's partnership with the European Translator's College in Straelen guarantee a comprehensive career-oriented education.

Tuition and Fee Information for Master of Literary Translation at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf

How to Apply for Master of Literary Translation at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf

Online Registration In order to check whether you fulfil the entry and admission conditions you have to register online During the registration you will be requested to enter your contact details and to upload documents proving your aptitude:

Application form (to download the application form click here)
Certificate of Bachelor study programme,
Transcript of records,
Proof of English proficiency (e.g. TOEFL, IELTS, German “Abitur”, etc.),
Content of modules (courses) taken in Cell and Molecular Biology (4 CP) or in Biochemistry (4 CP) or in Biopsychology (4 CP) or in Physiology (4 CP) and/or anatomy/neuroanatomy, at least 2 credit points from practical experience should be available.

Documents in languages other than English or German have to be certified translated by a sworn translator. Documents in languages other than German or English willnot be accepted. In case you have not completed your Bachelor programme yet, an interim certificate with at least 80% of examination and study achievements has be submitted instead. After saving, entered and uploaded information can be changed later on.

Master of Literary Translation at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf

Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf

Germany, Düsseldorf