MA Literary Translation at University of Rochester

Programme overview

The MALTS MA, established in 2009, combines coursework, practical training and internships with Open Letter Books and other presses, culminating in a publishable full-length translation. Open Letter will carefully consider all master's theses for publication.

Faculty: School of Arts and Sciences | Department: Literary Translation Studies (MALTS) | Duration: 30 credits; thesis extends into summer or fall | Intake: Deadlines December 15, 2026 priority; March 15, 2027 final | Study mode: full-time | Location: Rochester, NY, United States

What you will study

Core courses are LTST 400, 401 and 402/403; three electives on international literature, advanced literary studies and publishing; and a 6-credit master's thesis (LTST 495), a book-length translation with commentary.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Literary Translation applicants: bachelor's degree; significant preparation in one or more literary and linguistic traditions; official transcripts; three letters of recommendation; personal statement covering literary, translation and language experience including a second foreign language; translation sample of about 20 pages of fiction or drama or 200 lines of poetry with source text. Fee $70. Deadlines December 15, 2026 (priority), February 1, 2027 and March 15, 2027 (final); limited slots.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Intake: Deadlines December 15, 2026 priority; March 15, 2027 final

Duration: 30 credits; thesis extends into summer or fall

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