Literary Studies Major Subject (Academic)

Overview

Degree: Bachelor of Arts
Duration: 6 semesters
Course Start: Winter semester & summer semester
Restrictions: Without NC 1
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Contents of the subject Literary Studies

Interdisciplinary perspective
The Bachelor’s degree programme in Literary Studies at Bielefeld University offers a systematic and comparative examination of various literatures, including German- and English-language literature as well as Romance and Latin literature. This interdisciplinary approach fosters a comprehensive understanding of cultural and literary contexts.

Focus on Theory and Methodology
The programme is characterised by a strong focus on theory and methodology, enabling students to analyse literary texts whilst taking into account the conditions of their creation, reception and transformation. These analytical skills are crucial for the academic study of literature.

Foreign-language skills
Students are encouraged to read and analyse texts in foreign languages, particularly in English. These skills not only enhance students’ language proficiency but also broaden their understanding of international literary and cultural history.

Engaging teaching methods
The programme offers a supportive teaching and learning environment that encourages close collaboration between lecturers and students. This fosters a vibrant culture of discussion and supports students’ individual development.

Diverse career paths
The broad-based programme prepares students for a variety of professional fields in which literary and cultural knowledge is in demand. This flexibility enhances the programme’s appeal in the labour market.
The degree programme opens up a wide range of career prospects in various fields, for example:

Media and publishing: Graduates find employment in media and publishing companies, where they can work as editors or proofreaders. They are responsible for the content and publication of literary works.

Cultural and academic management: Career opportunities exist in cultural and academic management, where professionals plan and implement cultural projects and promote dialogue between the academic world and the general public.

Public communication: The skills acquired also qualify graduates for roles in public communication, for example in PR agencies or in the public relations departments of companies and organisations.

Research and academia:
An academic career in research is also an option. Graduates can work at universities or research institutes and contribute to literary studies or projects.

Adult education and continuing professional development:
Positions in adult education and continuing professional development also offer opportunities where graduates can develop and deliver programmes designed to promote literary knowledge and skills.

Access to the Bachelor programme is granted to those who have a university entrance qualification suitable for Germany (e. g. German ‘Abitur’).

Special conditions apply to applicants with a foreign certificate of education.

Likewise, special conditions apply to those qualified in vocational education and training.

Course start

Studies can be commenced in both winter and summer semesters. Courses are targeted to commencing studies in winter semester. Student counselling to plan the course of studies is recommended.

Length and scope of studies

The standard period of studies is 6 semesters. Information on studying part time.

The studies Major Subject (Academic) Literary Studies comprise 120 credit points.

Find out about the academic structure model and note the possible combinations as well as the rules regarding the individual supplementary area.

The study places are not subject to any admission restrictions (numerus clausus). Nevertheless, you need to apply within the currently applicable application deadlines. Afterwards, however, you can submit your application for enrolment directly in the application and status portal, provided that you meet the access requirements.

Step by step to a bachelor programme without NC

Special conditions apply to applicants with a foreign certificate of education.

Likewise, special conditions apply to those qualified in vocational education and training.

Application deadline reminder

To the application portal

You will find the programme of lectures for this course in the eKVV.

An overview of the introductory and information events is provided by the central student counselling services.

Legend

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The information on admission restrictions / numerus clausus (NC) refers to applications for the winter semester 2026/27 and summer semester 2027.
Information on NC values from previous years