Program Overview

Introduction to the Master's Program in Writing, Editing, and Mediating

The University of Groningen offers a unique Master's program in Writing, Editing, and Mediating, which focuses on the practical and theoretical skills required for editing, translating, and writing in a professional context. This program is the only one of its kind in the Netherlands, providing insights into the history of publishing and textual dissemination alongside practical skills in textual editing and writing.

Program Description

The Master's track in Writing, Editing, and Mediating 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. The program features creative writing modules that allow students to hone their skills in crafting poetry and short stories.

Program Structure

The program is designed to provide a personal approach, prioritizing working in small classes in close contact with staff. 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. The program also features the option to do an internship, giving students the opportunity to create a network and gain hands-on experience working in the industry.

Facts and Figures

• Degree: MA in Literary Studies
• Course type: Master
• Duration: 12 months (60 EC)
• Croho code: 60813
• Language of instruction: English
• Start: September
• Faculty: Arts

Why Study this Program in Groningen?

• Groningen is the only university in the Netherlands to offer an MA program in Writing, Editing, and Mediating and offer creative writing modules.
• The program is tailored to students' needs, with small classrooms that facilitate plenty of interaction with lecturers and fellow classmates.
• With a range of electives, students can design their program to meet their ambitions and interests.
• Over the past decade, the university's BA and MA courses have been rated as the best in the Netherlands in university rankings.
• The academic staff have a reputation for excellence in teaching and research.

Program Options

• Master's placement (specialization): This Master's track includes an optional work placement for which students are awarded ECTS credit points.
• Study abroad: Study abroad is unaccompanied.

Entry Requirements

• Dutch diploma: Students with a Bachelor's degree in English Language and/or Literature or in another literature or culture area taught in English are admissible to this Master's track.
• International diploma: Students with an international diploma should fill in the checklist, which needs to be uploaded via the Progress Portal when applying for this program.
• Language test: Additional English language requirement, such as a TOEFL iBT with a score of 110 or an IELTS with a score of 8.

Admission Requirements

• Previous education: Students with a Bachelor's degree in English Language and/or Literature or in another literature or culture area taught in English are admissible to this Master's track.
• Language test: Additional English language requirement, such as a TOEFL iBT with a score of 110 or an IELTS with a score of 8.
• Other admission requirements: To assess whether the educational/academic background meets the specific program requirements, the level and curriculum of previous studies will be considered.

Transfer Options

• Transferring from the University of Groningen or other research universities is possible, with no additional requirements for certain programs.

Application Deadlines

• Dutch students: 15 August 2026
• EU/EEA students: 01 May 2026
• non-EU/EEA students: 01 May 2026

Tuition Fees

• EU/EEA: € 2601 (full-time)
• non-EU/EEA: € 19200 (full-time)

After Graduation

After graduating from the MA Writing, Editing, and Mediating program, students will be equipped with academic and professional skills that will prepare them for further study at PhD level and for the job market. Students will have developed the ability to think independently, present in a professional setting, work as a part of a team, undertake individual research projects, and communicate professionally for a range of different audiences.

Job Prospects

The degree in Writing, Editing, and Mediating is the perfect preparation for a future career. As a WEM graduate, students will have acquired specialist skills that are highly sought after by numerous institutions and companies. Many graduates pursue careers in publishing, writing, and public relations both within the Netherlands and throughout Europe.

Research

Departmental research covers areas of English literature, from premodern culture to language development and modern literature. Research topics include women's travel writing, King Arthur, fan fiction, the history of the emotions, gender studies, modern and contemporary British and American literature, children's and young adult literature, and gothic literature.

Student Profile

The ideal candidate is a graduate with a degree in literary studies and a proven ability to operate in English who wants to develop knowledge and skills related to the circulation and editing of English-language texts.

Study Support

The study advisor is available to answer questions and provide support. Study advisors are impartial, and everything discussed is treated confidentially. They can also help find the right place to direct queries about registration, grades, and other administrative questions.