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The Bachelor's degree in Literary Studies at the University of Groningen offers students an in-depth and comprehensive exploration of world literature, literary history, critical analysis, and cultural context. This programme is designed for students who have a passion for reading, analyzing, and understanding literature from diverse periods and regions. Throughout the three-year course, students develop essential skills in literary analysis, interpretation, and research, enabling them to examine texts from various perspectives and disciplines. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics including classical literature, modern and contemporary works, literary theory, and intercultural literature. Students also gain familiarity with different languages and literary traditions, fostering a greater appreciation of cultural diversity and global literary landscapes.
In addition to literary analysis, the programme emphasizes the development of critical thinking, academic writing, and presentation skills. Students are encouraged to engage actively with texts and participate in discussions, debates, and literary projects. The programme offers various elective courses, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests such as poetry, narrative fiction, drama, or translation studies. The degree prepares graduates for a broad spectrum of career options, including careers in publishing, media, education, cultural management, and further academic research or postgraduate studies. The University of Groningen provides a vibrant, international academic environment, supporting students with small class sizes, expert faculty, and a collaborative learning atmosphere. Through international exchanges and internships, students also have opportunities to gain global experience and broaden their professional networks. Completing this programme equips students with a nuanced understanding of literature's role in society and enhances their abilities as critical, culturally-aware thinkers and communicators.
The Bachelor's degree in Literary Studies at the University of Groningen offers a comprehensive exploration of literature from various periods, genres, and regions. Throughout the program, students will develop critical skills to analyze texts, understand historical and cultural contexts, and appreciate the diverse forms of literary expression. The curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation in literary theory, history, and criticism, enabling students to interpret complex literary works and engage in meaningful discussions about literature's role in society.
The program begins with introductory courses that familiarize students with core concepts in literary analysis, including narrative structures, poetic forms, and rhetorical devices. As students progress, they delve deeper into specific literary periods such as the Middle Ages, Renaissance, Romanticism, Modernism, and contemporary literature, gaining insights into how historical events and cultural shifts influence literary developments. Courses also cover themes such as identity, gender, ethnicity, and political discourse, encouraging students to critically examine texts from multiple perspectives.
A distinctive feature of the program is its emphasis on multidisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from history, philosophy, and linguistics to enrich understanding of literary works. Students are encouraged to participate in seminars, workshops, and discussion groups that foster collaborative learning and critical thinking. Furthermore, the program includes opportunities for students to develop their research skills, culminating in a Bachelor's thesis where they investigate a literary topic of their choice in depth.
The program also emphasizes the importance of intercultural exchange and global perspectives. Students explore literary traditions beyond Western canon, including texts from Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Language proficiency is encouraged, and courses are available in multiple languages to support this goal. The university’s vibrant academic community and extensive digital resources provide an enriching environment for literary exploration.
Graduates of the Bachelor's in Literary Studies are well-equipped for careers in education, publishing, media, and cultural organizations. They also have the foundational skills needed to pursue advanced studies or research in literature and related fields. Overall, this program aims to cultivate analytical thinking, cultural awareness, and a lifelong appreciation for the power of literature to reflect and shape human experience.
Admission requirements
Excellent academic record.
Other requirements
- cijferlijst Excellent academic record.
- cijferlijst Excellent academic record.
- taaltoets cijfer Minimum requirement of TOEFL iBT 97 (with a minimum of 24 on writing skills) or IELTS 7 (with a minimum of 6.5 on all items). ERK level C1.
- taaltoets cijfer Minimum requirement of TOEFL iBT 97 (with a minimum of 24 on writing skills) or IELTS 7 (with a minimum of 6.5 on all items). ERK level C1.
- vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) BA degree in: * a modern European language and culture study (with a specialization in literature) * Classical Studies (with a specialization in literature) * another related field
- vooropleiding (ISPAC: vereiste vooropleiding) BA degree in: * a modern European language and culture study (with a specialization in literature) * Classical Studies (with a specialization in literature) * another related field
The University of Groningen offers a range of funding options for students enrolled in the Literary Studies program, aimed at supporting international and domestic students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees vary depending on the nationality of the student and the specific course requirements, with Dutch and EU/EEA students generally benefiting from lower fees compared to international students from outside the EU/EEA. To assist with financial planning, prospective students are encouraged to consult the university’s official fee schedule available on their website.
In addition to tuition fees, the university provides information on scholarships and grants that can significantly reduce financial burdens. The Holland Scholarship, for example, is open to talented international students and provides a one-time award that helps cover part of the tuition fees. There are also faculty-specific scholarships and awards that recognize academic excellence or exceptional talent in the field of literary studies. The Groningen International Student Scholarship is designed to support excellent international students and offers partial tuition fee waivers based on merit.
Students are also advised to explore external funding opportunities, including government grants, private scholarships, and sponsorship programs from their home countries. Many governments offer financial aid for students studying abroad, which can often be combined with university scholarships. Additionally, students may consider part-time employment opportunities available on or near campus, which are regulated by Dutch law to ensure they do not interfere with academic progress. The university’s Career Services center provides guidance on securing suitable employment, preparing CVs, and understanding work regulations.
For students requiring loans, the Dutch government provides student loan options through the Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs (DUO), which can cover living expenses and tuition fees for eligible students. Students are encouraged to inquire about loan conditions and application procedures well in advance of their studies.
Finally, the university emphasizes the importance of early financial planning and comprehensive budgeting to ensure a smooth academic experience. Detailed information about available financing options, application deadlines, and eligibility criteria can be found on the university's official funding and scholarships webpage. Overall, the University of Groningen offers a supportive financial infrastructure to help students successfully complete their Literary Studies degree without undue financial hardship.
The Bachelor's degree in Literary Studies at the University of Groningen offers students a comprehensive introduction to the field of literature, focusing on the analysis of various types of texts, literary history, and the development of critical interpretive skills. The program aims to develop a deep understanding of literary works from different periods and cultures, emphasizing both thematic and formal aspects of literature. Students gain insights into the relationship between literature and society, exploring how literary texts reflect and influence cultural and social dynamics. The curriculum includes courses on literary theory, literary history, and specific genres or periods, enabling students to acquire a broad and nuanced perspective on literature's role within different contexts. In addition, students have opportunities to study contemporary literary practices, digital humanities, and intercultural literary communications, preparing them for diverse career paths or postgraduate studies. The program encourages active engagement with texts through discussions, writing assignments, and projects, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective communication. Students may also participate in internships or research projects, offering practical experience and exposure to the professional world of literature and cultural analysis. The University of Groningen’s multidisciplinary approach ensures that students are well-equipped to understand and interpret literature across various cultures and languages. Graduates of the program typically pursue careers in education, publishing, media, cultural policy, or further academic research. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies according to specific interests through electives and minors. Overall, the Bachelor's in Literary Studies at the University of Groningen provides a solid foundation in literary analysis, historical understanding, and cultural awareness, preparing students for versatile and dynamic professional environments or advanced academic pursuits.