Study guide

  1. Programmes
  2. Master of Arts in Literary Studies

Master of Arts in Literary Studies

The Advanced Master of Arts in Literary Studies is an interuniversity programme organised by the University of Antwerp, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Ghent University, and KU Leuven. It will expand your knowledge of contemporary literary theory, as well as historical and modern literature. Leading (inter)national literary scholars will teach you what makes literature such a vital research topic, and the various ways to study it. 

Subsequent Master's Programme
1 year 60 credits
Faculty of Arts and Philosophy
Dutch
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About the programme
Programme summary
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After graduation

What

The study programma prepares you for independent academic research with an emphasis on interdisciplinarity. Simultaneously, you will develop various advanced practical skills related to collecting, managing, and analysing information, as well as presenting research findings. You will also concentrate on the professional application of theoretical knowledge within the broader cultural field. The programme provides an intensive and comprehensive study of contemporary literary studies, exploring the field's historical evolution, diversification, and current position within contemporary cultural studies.

Teaching activities occur at the four partner universities. Enrolment takes place at KU Leuven. 

For whom

The admission requirements depend on your prior education (type of degree, country of issue etc.) or additional experience.

Structure

The curriculum comprises 60 ECTS credits, with one-third dedicated to the Master's dissertation. Each year, numerous students take part in our various international exchange programmes. 

For at-home students, the academic year unfolds as follows:

  •  in the first term, you take the required "Studio" course unit, which introduces you to the theories and practices of contemporary literary studies. You discuss key theoretical texts, engage in academic writing sessions, and visit Flemish research groups and confererences during various field trips.
  • You will also select advanced course units focused on specific methods and theories such as book history, narrative theory, poetry theory, and genetic literary studies. The second term includes an intensive week taught by a leading international scholar. In the past, guest lecturers have included Laura Marcus (University of Oxford), Catherine Belsey (Cardiff University), Jean-Michael Rabaté (University of Pennsylvania), Jonathan Culler (Cornell University), and Mark McGurl (Stanford University). Additionally, you will choose course units in both historical and modern literature.

If you are so inclined, you may undertake a research work placement with one of the many research groups at the partner universities. 

Labour Market

Our graduates are well-equipped to enter the international field of academic literary studies, such as pursuing a doctorate. Additionally, the programme aims to prepare you for participation in cultural communication within the wider social context (including cultural publicist literature and coordination, publishing, journalism) and for problem-solving roles across a variety of professional environments.