Research Master’s in Comparative Literary Studies
Explore literature across cultures, languages, and historical periods through a unique comparative and theoretical lens.
Best for:Best for scholars with a strong background in literary studies, theoretical frameworks, and comparative analysis, seeking to explore literature’s cultural and historical dimensions.
Overview
This Research Master’s programme at Utrecht University invites students to investigate how literature shapes and reflects cultural perspectives on time, memory, and imagination. Through a multidisciplinary approach, it examines literature as a cultural medium, fostering comparisons across languages, media, time periods, and disciplines. The curriculum is designed for scholars eager to engage with theoretical frameworks and interdisciplinary methodologies. Applicants should be prepared for rigorous academic inquiry and a collaborative research environment, with a focus on developing advanced analytical and critical thinking skills in literary studies.
What you'll do
- Conduct independent and collaborative research on comparative literary themes, employing theoretical and interdisciplinary methodologies.
- Develop advanced analytical and critical skills through coursework and seminars focused on literature across cultures and historical periods.
- Engage with diverse literary texts, comparing them across languages, media, and disciplinary boundaries.
- Participate in academic discussions and workshops to refine research questions and theoretical approaches.
- Complete a master’s thesis under faculty supervision, demonstrating original research and critical insight.
- Collaborate with peers and faculty to explore the intersections of literature, culture, and society.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Literary Studies, Humanities, or a related field (e.g. Cultural Studies, Philosophy, or Comparative Literature).
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: English; proficiency demonstrated by one of the following: Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (B1), Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (C1), IELTS overall band 6.5 (with a minimum of 6.0 in writing), TOEFL internet-based 93, TOEFL paper-based 580, or TOEFL computer-based 237.
Instruction: English
- Proficient academic writing and research skills in literary studies.
- Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.
- Familiarity with theoretical frameworks in literature and cultural studies.
- Ability to engage with interdisciplinary approaches to literary analysis.
- No specific nationality or residency restrictions.
- Applicants must hold a recognized Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
- No age restrictions or prior experience caps.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2027-04-01
Applicants must submit their application through the official Utrecht University portal. Required documents include a CV, a letter of motivation, academic transcripts, a research proposal, and proof of English proficiency. Additional materials may be requested depending on the programme’s requirements.
- CV
- Letter of motivation
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/Cambridge Certificate)
- Research proposal (for the Master’s thesis)
- Reference letters (typically 2)
Contact
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