Literary Studies

Do you like to read? In your own language(s) and in translation? And are you interested in all genres? Then the Literature programme is a good match for you. This is a study for critical all-rounders!

Without borders

What you find in any bookshop is written by authors from all over the world. And you probably read a bit of everything: European or Japanese literature, recent work or novels from the past and sometimes a poem. During this study you will cross borders, because literature exists in many languages and cultures.

Of all ages

What exactly makes a text literature? What role does literature play in society, past and present? During the Literature programme, you will study and compare literature from antiquity to modern times, also in relation to other arts and media. From epic to novel and from novella to fan fiction. By comparing texts from different periods and languages, you will learn to uncover principles that transcend language. The programme also provides you with the tools to conduct thorough research so that you can take well-founded standpoints. Literature studies is an ongoing debate.

I applied to Literary Studies at Utrecht University for the philosophical and historical emphasis on literature.

Why Literary Studies at Utrecht University?

Because...

• your lecturers come from Europe, Eurasia, North America, Asia, and Africa—speaking in different tongues, they embody the interesting, comparative take our program offers!

• because of its international character, you can study abroad during the program. Students went to Berlin, Bangor, Paris, Kyoto, and other places around the world.

• you can become a member of Study Association Euphorion. They organise activities such as drinks, study trips, lectures, book readings and parties. They also keep you posted about major events in the literary world.

• studying at Utrecht University means studying at one of the world's best universities. The Shanghai Ranking ranks Utrecht University as 1st in the Netherlands, 17th in Europe and 56nd in the world!

• you will study in - UNESCO City of Literature - Utrecht. You will take classes in the city centre, in monumental buildings around the Dom Church. Read more about the Utrecht Introduction Period, finding accommodation, student organisations and going out.

This is what our students say

Our students know better than anyone why the study programme in Literary Studies is a good choice. Below you can read why they chose this programme and what makes it so attractive. See Literary Studies in figures on Studiekeuze123 to compare this programme with other national programmes.

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  Shaila and Literary Studies
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  Jingzhe and Literary Studies
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  Stella and Literary Studies