MA Literary Studies (Research) Leiden University

This two-year research master's integrates the study of media, art history and literary theory to bring you a unique and relevant qualification.

The Master in Linguistics (Research) at Leiden University combines an expansive curriculum with leading expertise and a flexible programme format.

Customise your degree

Create your own specialised area of expertise within the interdisciplinary master's programme in Literary Studies (research) at Leiden University. An expansive curriculum and flexible programme format give you the freedom to tailor your studies to reflect specific interests or career goals. Focus your studies on a medium, discipline, genre, or period of time. You will be able to study subjects and courses not available elsewhere.

Choose your research theme

Choose from the largest selection of languages offered in Continental Europe and an exceptional range of linguistic approaches including comparative, historical, descriptive, theoretical, experimental and formal. Explore sub-fields including phonetics, phonology, morphology, semantics, syntax, discourse, or pragmatics.

The main research themes of the Leiden University Centre for the Arts in Society, LUCAS, guide the themes of the courses offered. The themes are:

• art, agency and rhetoric;
• a global approach to texts, art and media;
• and intermediality.

Join a centre of expertise

Taught by Leiden University's internationally-acclaimed Faculty of Humanities, this programme integrates the study of media, art history, literature and literary theory. At Leiden University, you are joining one of Europe's leading universities providing you with access to Leiden University's world-famous collection of manuscripts, books and periodicals.

An important aspect of this programme is developing your ability to conduct original and innovative research. Join international peers at conferences, workshops and lecture series, all of which will help you forge an outstanding start to your career.

Small classes and an individual approach

During the programme, you will develop outstanding academic skills and knowledge that incorporates global and comparative perspectives. Small classes ensure a high level of contact with your lecturers – many of whom are researchers at the leading edge of their fields.

Curriculum

The first semester starts with the seminar 'Cultural Theory for the 21st Century', which offers an overview of the theoretical approaches used in the programme. You also choose an interdisciplinary seminar, a disciplinary seminar, and a 5 ec course within one of the national research schools.

During your second semester you take the compulsory course 'Methodological Concepts in Art and Literature'. You also choose one interdisciplinary seminar, and one disciplinary seminar.

Your third semester involves a compulsory thesis seminar, research colloquium, and two elective seminars. These can be taken at another university or replaced with an internship at an affiliated department, museum, or cultural institution abroad.

During your fourth semester you write Research Master's thesis. You are also required to take a 5 ec course within one of the national research schools of your choice.