MFA in Literary Translation

The BU Master of Fine Arts in Literary Translation gives students the tools to read more carefully and write more thoughtfully across languages. Located in the heart of Boston’s vibrant literary scene, the program is built around BU’s storied literary translation seminar, which brings leading literary translators to Boston to talk technique with our students. The two-semester curriculum includes courses in translation history and theory, language-specific workshops, and advanced literary study. A collaborative workshop brings together students translating from different languages. Students work closely with faculty mentors to produce a publisher-ready translation. The BU MFA in Literary Translation is the only program of its kind to include a specially designed course in English style for translators.

Maximize your potential for success with a master’s degree from the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences at BU.

Welcome! Arts & Sciences is Boston University’s largest academic division, the heart of a world-class research university. Our faculty in the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences is among the world’s most respected professors, researchers, and professionals in their disciplines. Our alumni are leading innovation and research and making an impact in their fields . Our campus is Boston, a city vibrant with history, culture, and diversity, and teeming with potential for connections and careers.

Qualifications for Admission

Those who have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university or with equivalent international education may apply.

• Your undergraduate program should include introductory studies in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences; completion of specified courses without credit may be required to make up any deficiency.
• You may apply to a master’s degree program if you have a bachelor’s degree (if you hold a three-year degree, you may be required to complete a one-year master’s degree program or post-graduate diploma in a relevant subject).
• You may not enroll simultaneously in more than one graduate program unless the programs are part of a BU-approved combined degree.
• If you have twice been rejected for admission to the same degree program, you must submit a letter of approval for application from the current director of graduate studies in the department to which you seek admission.