Literary Studies - Writing, Editing and Mediating
What makes a text captivating? How do you recognize repetitions, inconsistencies, faulty logic and other problems with writing? What does it take to guide a text from writer to reader?
Groningen is the only university in the Netherlands to offer an MA programme that focuses on answering these questions, providing insights into the history of publishing and textual dissemination alongside practical skills in textual editing and writing. The Writing, Editing and Mediating Master's track investigates the functions of literary works in their social contexts, the formations of editions, the theoretical underpinnings and history of writing, translating and mediating texts and the ways in which texts were disseminated to particular social groups.
Our MA is the only programme in the Netherlands to feature creative writing modules that allow students to hone their skills in crafting poetry and short stories. Throughout the course of the programme, students have the opportunity to tailor their study to their specific interests and needs undertaking modules taught by lecturers at the top of their fields. This programme provides a personal approach, prioritizing working in small classes in close contact with staff.
The programme also features the option to do an internship, giving our students the opportunity to create a network and gain hands-on experience working in industry. Our students often go into writing and publishing, and publishers recognize our programme as an ideal preparation for entering the field.
Additional English language requirement: a TOEFL iBT with a score of 110 (min. of 25 on all items); an IELTS, Academic Module, with a score of 8 (min. of 7.5 on all items); ERK level C1 or Cambridge C1 Advanced (level A) or C2 Proficiency with a minimum score of 200. If your BA does not certify this, you may have to take an appropriate language test.
Students with a Bachelor's degree in English Language and/or Literature or in another literature or culture area taught in English (e.g. American Studies) showing at least 60 ECTS or equivalent in literary studies (literary analysis, literary theory, genres, periods) are admissible to this Master's track.
To assess whether your educational/academic background meets the specific programme requirements, we will consider the level and curriculum of your previous studies. This evaluation is carried out by our Admissions Office and the Admissions Board.
Students with an international diploma should fill in the checklist. This checklist needs to be uploaded via the Progress Portal when applying for this programme.
- Reference letter: Names and contact of two referees;
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- A sample of academic writing in English: i.e. your thesis or 10-15 pages of other academic coursework preferably related to the programme you are applying to.
Job prospects
Your degree in Writing, Editing and Mediating is the perfect preparation for your future career. As a WEM graduate, you will have acquired specialist skills that are highly sought after by numerous institutions and companies. Our graduates think critically, are self-motivated, disciplined, reflective and have an excellent style of communication.
Through a combination of a research-driven approach and applying theory to real life situations, our programme prepares students for a range of different employment opportunities. Many of our students pursue careers in publishing, writing and public relations both within The Netherlands and throughout Europe.
Job examples
- Publishing
- Cultural organizations
- Public relations and communications
- Marketing
- Writing
