Explore literature from antiquity to the present through a comparative, world-literature lens. You’ll study how texts relate to culture, history, and other media, from classic genres to new media and fan fiction.
Immerse yourself in the world of literature at Utrecht University through the Literary Studies program. This full-time, on-campus course invites you to explore a broad range of texts from antiquity to contemporary works, examined through a comparative lens. You will analyze how literature intersects with culture, history, and various media, encompassing everything from classic genres to modern fan fiction.
The program spans 36 months and awards a total of 180 ECTS credits. It is designed to deepen your understanding of literary history while equipping you with essential theoretical and analytical skills. Your studies will include:
Learning activities typically involve a mix of lectures, seminars, and guided study. You will also engage in writing assignments and literature-based research tasks that foster academic argumentation and referencing skills. The program culminates in a capstone academic assessment, which may vary in format depending on the cohort.
To gain direct entry into the Literary Studies program, you typically need a Dutch VWO diploma. If you hold a foreign secondary school qualification, the university's International Student Admissions will evaluate whether your diploma is equivalent to the Dutch VWO.
Graduates of the Literary Studies program from Utrecht University are well-prepared for a variety of career paths. Opportunities may include roles in education, publishing, writing, cultural organizations, and media. The analytical and critical thinking skills developed throughout the course are highly valued in many professional fields.
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