Literary Studies

Overview

The courses at the Literary Studies MA programme from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam are closely linked to the current research of staff members, so that students are involved in cutting-edge developments. You are encouraged to explore your own interests, culminating in an individual research project when you write your Master’s thesis in the second semester.

A story is hardly ever told only in words: nineteenth-century novels were often illustrated, and contemporary fiction is marketed by its cover image. But the relation between word and image extends beyond illustrations. The same story can be told both in a novel and in a film – or even multiple films, think of Pride and Prejudice.

The graphic novel has grown out of its superhero phase and now deals with issues such as the Holocaust in Maus. The computer game Resident Evil has spawned as many as seven novels. The analysis of literature is therefore inseparably connected to knowledge of visual culture. 

Career Prospects 

• Each year, our graduates choose from a range of different career paths. Some become high school teachers; others work in translation, editing, and/or subtitling.

• We have organizers of literary festivals; people who work in the publishing industry; and researchers both within academia (writing a Ph.D. dissertation) and for cultural institutions, government agencies, or NGOs.

Promotion alumni sessions Master’s day

During the Master’s day, you can also meet our (international) alumni during several workshops. In these sessions they will tell you more about career opportunities after finishing your Master’s degree.