The American University in Cairo

Build advanced skills in comparative literary research across English, American, and global traditions in English and Comparative Literature at The American University in Cairo. The programme culminates in a supervised thesis based on original research and a language translation assessment.

• Programme level: Master’s (MA)
• Duration: Typically 2 years for coursework, followed by 1–2 years to complete the thesis
• Credits: Programme structure is based on required graduate courses (exact ECTS/credit total may vary by university policy)
• Delivery: On-campus (as per university programme format)
• Language of instruction: English
• Thesis requirement: Yes (original research thesis with a three-person committee)
• Language translation exam: Required prior to thesis work
• Application fee: Payable online with the application
• Start dates: Check the university’s current intake dates for the most accurate schedule

Programme Structure

The MA is typically completed in two years of coursework followed by thesis research and writing. Students complete the required graduate courses and then proceed to the thesis stage with faculty supervision.

Required courses (taught component):

• Greek Classics in Translation
• Classics of the Ancient World
• Renaissance Writers
• History of Literary Criticism
• Modern Literary Criticism
• Research Methods in Literature

Thesis stage:

• Language translation exam (completed in preparation for thesis work)
• Main advisor selection to guide the research direction
• Thesis supervision by a three-person committee (faculty adviser and two faculty readers)
• Thesis submission based on original comparative research

Note: The record lists six named courses; the programme also includes additional required coursework to reach the full set of required courses for admitted students. For the complete course list and sequencing, refer to the university’s official degree plan.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

79

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS The International English Language Test System (IELTS) tests your English-language proficiency on a scale of 1 – 9. The score refers to the combined average score of 4 subjects (writing, listening, speaking, and reading).

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

• Trusted by 300k learners
• 98 accuracy using real exam data
• 4.9/5 student rating

Work Permits

After completing your degree, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permit/visa extension, subject to Egyptian immigration rules and the specific conditions of your student status.

Typical eligibility considerations (check with the university and immigration authorities):

• You must have successfully completed your programme and hold the required graduation documentation.
• You may need to apply within a defined time window after graduation and provide proof of identity, degree completion, and valid residence status.
• Work authorisation is usually linked to your visa/residence permit category and may require additional approvals.
• Some rules can vary depending on your nationality, the type of degree completed, and the employer/contract details (if applicable).

Important: Immigration policies change. For the most accurate guidance for graduates of The American University in Cairo, confirm the latest requirements with the university’s international office and the relevant Egyptian immigration authority.