COURSE CURRICULUM

The master’s program in Book and Digital Media Studies at Leiden University is structured over two semesters, combining foundational coursework, elective options, and the completion of an MA thesis. The first semester focuses on providing students with a solid conceptual and practical introduction to the field, preparing them for more specialised study in the second semester. This preparation is delivered through three foundational courses that cover essential aspects of book history, publishing practices, and digital textual media, equipping students with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills necessary for advanced work.In the second semester, students undertake their MA thesis, allowing them to carry out independent research on a topic of their choice within the program’s scope. Alongside the thesis, students select a specialised course to deepen their expertise in a particular area of book and digital media studies. This structure ensures that students develop a strong academic foundation, practical skills, and research competence, enabling them to critically analyse historical and contemporary textual practices while engaging with emerging digital technologies in publishing and media.The combination of theory, practical training, and independent research prepares graduates for careers in publishing, libraries, museums, digital media, and other professional or academic contexts. The program’s emphasis on both traditional and digital textual culture, coupled with opportunities for internships and extracurricular engagement, ensures that students acquire a comprehensive skill set applicable to a wide range of professional environments or further research in book history and media studies.