Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

What you'll study

This master's programme combines intensive seminars in literary history and theory with opportunities for specialised study and research. Core study areas include modern and classical Hebrew literature, comparative and world literatures, literary theory and criticism, narrative and genre studies, cultural studies, and methodologies in literary research. Students typically follow one of two routes: a research‑oriented thesis track, producing an extended piece of original scholarship under supervision, or a taught track, comprising advanced coursework and a substantial final essay or project.

Typical teaching formats include small seminars, research workshops, reading groups and one‑to‑one supervision. Key module types you can expect:

• Seminars on major authors and movements in Hebrew literature
• Comparative literature seminars linking Hebrew texts with other linguistic traditions
• Theory and criticism: literary theory, gender studies, postcolonial approaches and cultural theory
• Research methods: archival research, philology, textual editing and digital humanities tools for literary study
• Electives in related fields such as film and media studies, translation studies, philosophy or history

Language provision and elective choices reflect the department's strengths; work in Hebrew is central but many courses and supervision options are available in English, and students may pursue studies in Arabic and other languages depending on staff expertise and course offerings. A supervised master's thesis is a common pathway to doctoral study and typically involves an original contribution to scholarship in a chosen subfield.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree with a substantial component in literature, language, cultural studies or a closely related humanities discipline. Strong academic performance in relevant courses, a writing sample (for example, a course essay or undergraduate dissertation), and a research proposal or statement of purpose are usually required. The selection process may also request academic transcripts, references from academic referees, and a CV.

Because much work involves Hebrew texts, proficiency in Hebrew is important for students focusing on Hebrew literature; some pathways and supervision may be available in English for students without full Hebrew fluency. Where required, applicants should demonstrate language competence in Hebrew or in the language(s) relevant to their research. International applicants may also need to meet the university's general language requirements for study in English or Hebrew.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Literary Studies master's develop transferable skills in critical analysis, close reading, research design, argumentation and written communication. Typical career paths include:

• Further academic study and research (PhD) leading to careers in higher education and research
• Publishing and editorial roles in book publishing, journals and digital media
• Cultural management and curatorship in museums, festivals and arts organisations
• Media, scriptwriting and content development for film, television and online platforms
• Translation and language services
• Public sector, NGOs and communications roles requiring strong writing, analysis and project skills

For those aiming at secondary school teaching, additional professional certification is required. Alumni also move into interdisciplinary roles that combine literature expertise with digital humanities, archival projects and public scholarship.

Why study at Ben‑Gurion University of the Negev

Ben‑Gurion University is situated in the dynamic cultural and academic environment of the Negev and offers an environment that encourages interdisciplinary research across the humanities and social sciences. The university's humanities faculty supports close student–supervisor relationships, a variety of specialised research centres and regular seminars that bring together local and international scholars. Students benefit from access to regional archives, contemporary cultural projects and collaborations with other faculties (for example film, media, and history), enabling research that connects literary study to broader social and cultural questions.

The department's strengths in Hebrew literature, comparative approaches and engagement with multilingual and multicultural contexts make it particularly well suited to students interested in literature's role in society, identity and cultural memory. Support services for postgraduate researchers, opportunities for teaching experience, and links to cultural institutions in Israel and beyond provide a solid foundation for both academic and non‑academic careers.