Art, Literature and Society

Art, Literature and Society at Maastricht University is a multidisciplinary Bachelor's programme designed to explore the intricate relationships between artistic expression, literary works, and societal contexts. This innovative programme enables students to develop a deep understanding of how art and literature influence, reflect, and shape social and cultural identities across different periods and regions. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, encouraging students to critically analyze diverse forms of artistic and literary expressions within their social and historical backgrounds. Throughout the programme, students will engage with a wide range of topics, including the role of art and literature in societal change, the impact of cultural diversity, and contemporary debates in the fields of aesthetics and cultural policy. The programme emphasizes an international perspective, inviting students to compare artistic and literary phenomena across various cultures and societies. It fosters critical thinking, intercultural awareness, and advanced research skills, preparing graduates for careers in cultural management, arts organizations, publishing, education, and research. The collaborative learning environment at Maastricht University promotes active participation, project-based assignments, and internships to connect academic theories with real-world applications. Graduates of Art, Literature and Society will be equipped to contribute thoughtfully and innovatively to debates on the cultural and societal significance of the arts and literature, both locally and globally. The programme also prepares students for postgraduate studies in related fields, creating a solid foundation for a future career in academia, cultural policy making, or arts management. With a focus on societal engagement and critical inquiry, this programme offers an enriching academic experience that emphasizes the importance of arts and literature in shaping a more inclusive, dynamic, and culturally aware society.

What role do artists and writers play in modern society? What’s the point of art in public spaces? Has the novel lost its importance? What do writers and artists contribute to social and political issues? The main question and focus is: what’s going on in national and international artistic and literary practices right now and how to situate, historicize and contextualize this. This programme is for critical and creative thinkers with broad interests.

Applicants to the Art, Literature and Society programme must have: 

• a bachelor’s degree from a relevant academic field and/or a CV indicating relevant working experience
• a letter of motivation indicating why you wish to study Art, Literature and Society at Maastricht University and why you expect that you will be able to successfully complete the programme  
• high quality of performance in previous education

For students with a relevant University of Applied Sciences degree (e.g. HBO/Hochschule), or an academic BA or BSc Bachelor in a field that does not grant direct admission into this programme, there is a Pre-master year ("schakeljaar").  

Required documents

The following documents must be submitted with your application:

• a motivation letter (see Admissions requirements)
• your curriculum vitae
• a photocopy of your valid passport or EU ID-card
• a recent passport picture
• a certified copy of your bachelor certificate and list of grades (with certified translation for languages other than English, Dutch, German or French)
• a copy of your English Language test with sufficient results (see requirements mentioned above)

There are plenty of scholarships available: http://www.maastrichtuniversity.nl/web/ServiceCentres/SSC/AdministrationAndPracticalServices/SSC/Scholarships/UMScholarships.htm

The Master's programme in Art, Literature and Society at Maastricht University offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex relationship between visual arts, literature, and societal contexts. This programme is designed for students who are passionate about exploring cultural phenomena and their influence on societal development. The curriculum combines theoretical and practical insights from arts, humanities, and social sciences, enabling students to critically analyze artworks, literary texts, and cultural practices within their historical and contemporary frameworks. Throughout the programme, students engage with a diverse range of topics, including the role of art and literature in social movements, identity formation, cultural representation, and the impact of globalization on local and international artistic expressions. The programme emphasizes research skills, encouraging students to undertake independent projects, interpretative analyses, and qualitative research methods. Students learn from a team of experienced faculty members who are active researchers in fields related to arts, literature, and society, providing a vibrant academic environment that fosters critical thinking and innovation. The programme offers opportunities for internships, collaborative projects, and study abroad experiences to enhance practical understanding and build professional networks. Graduates of this master’s programme are well-equipped for careers in cultural institutions, museums, literary organizations, media, education, and research. They also have the skills necessary to pursue doctoral studies in related disciplines. The collaborative learning atmosphere, combined with the university’s focus on problem-based learning, ensures students develop both academic expertise and practical competencies relevant to today’s dynamic cultural landscape. The programme is conducted primarily in English and is aimed at international students interested in cultural analysis and societal issues through the lens of arts and literature. It prepares students to critically engage with societal challenges and contribute to cultural policy, arts management, or academic research.