Master in English Literature: Writing the 21st Century
Explore the intersection of literature and visual culture in a dynamic English-language master’s programme.
Best for:Best for students with a bachelor’s in literature, cultural studies, or related humanities disciplines who are passionate about visual culture and its role in shaping modern narratives.
Overview
This master’s specialisation at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam focuses on the interplay between literature and visual culture, examining how illustrations, book covers, and graphic novels shape narratives and cultural reception. Students engage with contemporary themes like the Holocaust in graphic novels and the commercial impact of visual design on literature. The curriculum integrates cutting-edge research from faculty, ensuring alignment with current academic trends. Taught entirely in English, the programme attracts international students seeking interdisciplinary insights into 21st-century literary and visual practices.
What you'll do
- Analyze the relationship between literary texts and their visual representations, such as illustrations and book covers.
- Engage with contemporary graphic novels and explore their thematic and cultural significance, including representations of historical events like the Holocaust.
- Participate in interdisciplinary courses that link literary analysis with visual culture, media studies, and cultural theory.
- Conduct research projects aligned with faculty expertise, contributing to current debates in literary and visual studies.
- Develop critical writing and analytical skills through essays, research papers, and presentations on literature and visual culture.
- Collaborate with peers and faculty to explore how visual elements influence literary reception and interpretation.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Literature, Cultural Studies, Humanities, or a related field (e.g. English, History, Art History, or equivalent).
Language: English; proficiency at a level suitable for academic study (equivalent to IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 90, though exact requirements may vary).
Instruction: English
- Strong analytical and critical reading skills in literary texts.
- Ability to engage with interdisciplinary research combining literature and visual culture.
- Fluency in academic writing and research methodologies.
- Basic familiarity with digital tools for literary and visual analysis (e.g., databases, digital archives).
- No specific nationality restrictions; open to international applicants.
- No age restrictions.
- No prior work experience required.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2027-04-01
Applicants must submit their application through the university’s online portal. Required documents include a CV, a letter of motivation, academic transcripts, and proof of English proficiency. Some programmes may require additional materials like a research proposal or letters of recommendation. Check the university’s application guidelines for specific requirements.
- CV
- Letter of motivation
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
- Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL scores)
- Passport-sized photo (if required)
- Proof of payment of the application fee (if applicable)
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.