Program Overview

MS English (Linguistics and Literature) program covers a wide range of courses in linguistics and literature. The programme prepares the graduates for research in language/linguistics and literature according to the current and future trends. MS in English (Linguistics & Literature) is a research degree program for students who want to pursue further education after their 16 years of education (i.e. MA English or BS English). The program focuses on linguistics/language and literature theories and practices with an emphasis on high-quality relevant research. The program enables in producing professionals with academic excellence, a spirit of dedication and the desire to contribute to the field of linguistics and literature. The students are prepared to choose a further specialization in their thesis for further specialization to cater to their diverse interests and future aspirations.

Linguistics is a discipline of social sciences that focuses on language as a means of communication and as a social instrument of interaction and relationship among humans. Linguistics also caters to many interdisciplinary and cross-disciplinary fields. Language occupies a fundamental place in human society, and linguistics provides the platform in conducting research in various aspects and facets of language. Literature is considered both a representation and reflection of society. Research in literature enables students explore both implicit and explicit aspects of such representation and reflection. COMSATS University Islamabad, with its state of the art facilities, its high reputation among the degree awarding institutions and excellent faculty would be able to provide a supportive and conducive environment to the students to master the research skills in the field of linguistics.

Entry Requirements

  1. 16 years of education (i.e. MA English or BS English, or a relevant degree), at least 2nd Division or equivalent
  2. Valid GAT General (NTS) result score
  3. Departmental test/interview
Sr Title of Major Information Details
1 Duration of MS Program Minimum 2 Years i.e. 4 Semester Maximum 4 Years i.e. 8 Semester (one additional semester in case of a special case)
2 Admission/Eligibility Criteria Relevant 16 years qualification with minimum 2nd Div. (in case of Annual System) for MS English (whereas First Div. for other programs) or 2.5 CGPA (in case of Semester System)
3 Research Publication Policy N/A for MS
4 Comprehensive Exam Policy N/A for MS
5 Thesis Evaluation Policy The thesis are evaluated by both internal and external examiners, after which a viva voce exam is held.
6 Plagiarism Policy The plagiarism policy of the University shall be applicable to graduate students.

Scheme of Studies

Semester wise break-up of credit hours is as follows:

Semester I Course Work 4 Course of 3 Credit Hours Each*
Semester II Course Work 4 Course of 3 Credit Hours Each*
Semester III & IV Thesis (In case of delay, a student needs to apply for extension.) 6 Credit Hours
Total Credit Hours: 30

* The students are needed to choose from a list of offered core and elective courses (as are mentioned in Scheme of Studies, and notified timetable in each semester).

An overview of the courses offered (core and elective) is attached:

Career Prospects

There are many different careers in the field of language/linguistics and literature after the MS degree. The graduates can seek employment as:

  • English as a foreign/second language teacher.
  • Marketing executive with specialization in language content.
  • Public relations officer with expertise in communication.
  • Publishing copy-editor/proofreader/copy writer/ editor as language/contents expert.
  • Interpreter/Translator
  • Higher/Secondary school teacher and lecturer at a college/university
  • Speech and language therapist (with some more specialization).
  • Media person
  • Consultant for publishing

Scholarships Available:

(As per the policies of the university, HEC, Provincial Govt. and Federal Govt.)