About literary studies

Literary studies brings together people who are passionate about literature and creative writing. Through core units you’ll be exposed to different cultural and historical contexts. You’ll then have the option to take electives from either literary studies or creative writing.

Why choose literary studies?

You’ll study some of the best-known and most interesting contemporary and historical literature, including novels, poems, short stories and non-fiction. You’ll develop an advanced understanding of literature in cultural, historical and professional contexts, be able to discuss literature informed by an understanding of literary movements, themes, genres and literary theory, and be able to explain how and why literature continues to shape society.

What will you study?

Learn how to write critically about what you read and develop your understanding of the relations between language, literature and culture. You’ll have the option to take electives from either literary studies or creative writing.

There are lots of units to choose from including:

• Introduction to creative writing
• Narrative
• Romanticism and reason in the long eighteenth century
• Literature theory
• Literature and modernism
• Writing women
• Shakespeare and Renaissance literature
• Children’s literature: A comparative study
• Dark heroes, dark realms: Supernatural fantasy before 1900
• Digital literatures
• American literature
• Advanced creative writing

What careers will you be ready for?

Literary studies will open up opportunities for a future in:

• Teaching
• Business
• Publishing
• Marketing
• Creative writing
• Editing
• Journalism
• Government and much more.

Who will be teaching you?

Literary studies brings together people who are passionate and knowledgeable about literature and creative writing. Our units help students develop an advanced understanding of the different historical, cultural, political and institutional forces that shape the reading and writing of literature as well as explore the role literature plays in shaping society itself. Our staff includes leading international scholars, prize-winning creative writers and high-profile public figures who engage actively with the literary community. Together, we will explore some of the most imaginative and influential works of past and contemporary literature across a range of periods and genres.

Global study

Monash Arts has the largest number of overseas study programs of any university in Australia. There are short term programs that run for two weeks, or longer programs that run for a semester.

GIG: Global Immersion Guarantee

The Monash Arts Global Immersion Guarantee (GIG) is an award-winning initiative that will enable you to explore first-hand the relationships between society, technology and the environment. It’s a two-week, funded study trip for all eligible first-year Monash Arts, single or double degree students to one of six destinations – China, India, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia or the Pacific Islands.