University of Warsaw

What you'll study

The programme builds advanced competence in English through a combination of taught modules, seminar work and an independently researched master’s thesis. Core areas include advanced English linguistics (syntax, semantics, phonology), sociolinguistics, discourse analysis and corpus linguistics; anglophone literature from historical and contemporary perspectives; and applied strands such as translation studies, interpreting, language assessment and second-language acquisition.

Typical modules and learning activities include:

• Research methods and academic writing for anglophone studies
• Advanced grammar and pragmatics of English
• Corpus linguistics and digital methods in language study
• Sociolinguistics, language and identity, and multilingualism in society
• Anglophone literature seminars (period- and genre-focused)
• Translation techniques and specialised translation practice
• Language teaching methodology and practicum in school or language centre settings
• Electives enabling specialisation (for example, audiovisual translation, literary theory, TESOL, or forensic linguistics)

Teaching is delivered through lectures, small-group seminars, laboratory sessions (for corpus work), supervised research, and assessed practical work such as translation portfolios or teaching practicum. The programme culminates in a supervised master’s thesis that demonstrates the student’s ability to carry out independent research.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in English studies, linguistics, modern languages, humanities or another relevant field. Candidates with degrees in other disciplines who can demonstrate a strong command of English and prior study or professional experience related to the programme may also be considered.

Admission typically requires:

• A recognised undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification
• Proof of English language proficiency at an advanced level (evidence may be demonstrated through prior degree language of instruction, recognised language certificates, or an internal assessment—check the faculty guidance)
• Academic transcripts and a curriculum vitae
• A personal statement or letter of motivation outlining your study and career aims
• Where required by the faculty, a short interview or entrance test to assess suitability for the chosen specialisation

International applicants should consult the University of Warsaw’s admissions information for details on document legalisation, translation requirements and any specific conditions for non-EU students.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master’s in English Studies pursue a wide range of careers in Poland and internationally. Common pathways include secondary and tertiary English teaching, English for specific purposes (ESP) and language centre management, professional translation and interpreting, editing and publishing, content development and copywriting, international relations and cultural institutions, and roles in media and communications.

The programme also provides a strong foundation for doctoral study and research careers in linguistics, literary studies or applied linguistics, and for positions in language assessment bodies, localisation and technology companies that work on natural language processing and corpus-based projects.

Why study at University of Warsaw

The University of Warsaw is one of Poland’s largest and most research-active universities, with a long tradition in philological and linguistics scholarship. The Faculty of Modern Languages and its Institute of English Studies host experienced academic staff who publish in international journals and supervise advanced research.

Students benefit from extensive library collections, access to specialised corpora and digital resources, and opportunities for study exchange and cooperation with international partners. Practical links with schools, cultural institutions and language service providers in Warsaw provide routes to professional experience and networking in Poland’s capital city.