Literary Studies

What makes a text captivating? How do you recognize repetitions, inconsistencies, faulty logic and other problems with writing? What does it take to guide a text from writer to reader?

Groningen is the only university in the Netherlands to offer an MA programme that focuses on answering these questions, providing insights into the history of publishing and textual dissemination alongside practical skills in textual editing and writing. The Writing, Editing and Mediating Master’s track investigates the functions of literary works in their social contexts, the formations of editions, the theoretical underpinnings and history of writing, translating and mediating texts and the ways in which texts were disseminated to particular social groups.

Our MA is the only programme in the Netherlands to feature creative writing modules that allow students to hone their skills in crafting poetry and short stories. Throughout the course of the programme, students have the opportunity to tailor their study to their specific interests and needs undertaking modules taught by lecturers at the top of their fields. This programme provides a personal approach, prioritizing working in small classes in close contact with staff.

The programme also features the option to do an internship, giving our students the opportunity to create a network and gain hands-on experience working in industry. Our students often go into writing and publishing, and publishers recognize our programme as an ideal preparation for entering the field.

How do literature and culture create identity? What effect does literature and telling stories have on modern society? How can literary studies shape the future?

The academic study of English literature can be used to reflect on the ways that people interact with one another, providing a catalyst for insight into contemporary social debates. While acquiring key skills in analysis, interpretation, critical thinking, research and independence, you will have the opportunity to study the rich literatures and cultures of the British Isles and North America, as well as other countries where English is used.

Our MA is the only programme in the Netherlands to feature creative writing modules that allow students to hone their skills in crafting poetry and short stories. Throughout the course of the MA, students have the opportunity to tailor their study to their specific interests, from medieval classics to the Victorian novel to fan fiction, undertaking modules taught by lecturers at the top of their fields. This programme provides a personal approach, prioritizing working in small classes in close contact with staff.

The programme also features the option to do an internship, giving our students the opportunity to create a network and gain hands-on experience working in industry. Our students often go into writing and publishing, and publishers recognize our programme as an ideal preparation for entering the field. This programme develops your writing, presentation and debating skills for both an academic and professional context, preparing you for entering an international job market.For more information see: English Language & Culture.