Master of Arts in Literary Translation

The master of arts in literary translation (MALTS) program is a 30-credit program made up of three components:

  • Core
  • Electives
  • Annotated thesis translation

The core introduces you to the theories and problems of literary translation, giving you the framework to work on a series of translations independently and in consultation with your advisor. You also take a writing workshop to hone your writing skills not only as a literal translator but as a translator of literature.

For elective requirements, you may pursue at an advanced level of specific national literatures and of international literature as a global phenomenon. You may also elect to work as an intern at a literary press.

The annotated thesis translation is a book-length literary translation into English, accompanied by commentary addressing the particular problems you encountered with the work and a description of your resolution. It is expected that the thesis will be of near publishable quality. The very best theses will be considered for publication by the Open Letter press.

To graduate, students are required to take three core classes—LTST 400: Studies in Translation, LTST 401: MALTS Seminar and Translation Portfolio, and LTST 402/3: Writing and Translation Workshop—three electives—which include classes on the study of international literature, advanced literary studies, and an introduction to publishing/internship with Open Letter Books—and complete their master’s thesis research.

Below is a suggested course plan. This can be altered to fit a student’s interests, but offers an idea of what incoming students can expect.

Fall Semester

  • MALTS Seminar (2 Credits)
  • LTST 400: Studies in Translation (4 Credits)
  • LTST 410: Introduction to Literary Publishing (4 Credits)
  • LTST 401: Portfolio (2 Credits)

Spring Semester

  • LTST 402/403: Writing and Translation Workshop for Fiction/Poetry (4 credits)
  • LTST 402: World Literature and Translation (4 credits)
  • LTST 4XX: Studies in International Literature/Advanced Literary Studies (4 credits)

Summer/Fall

  • LTST 495: Master’s Research (6 credits)