Departments & Programs

Comparative Literature

Major in Comparative Literature
Required Courses
  1. General Methods and Theory C205 and C305.
  2. One course each from two of the following groups:
    • Genre C216, C217, C219, C311, C313, C315, C318, C415, C417
    • Period C320, C321, C325, C329, C333, C335, C337, C338
    • Comparative Arts C251, C252, C255, C256, C257, C261, C310, C351, C355, C357, C358, C361
    • Cross-Cultural Studies C262, C265, C266, C340, C360, C363, C364, C365, C370, C375, C377, C378, C464
  3. One advanced course at the 300 level or above that includes the study of a foreign language literature in the original. Typically students will complete this requirement with a course taken outside of the Department of Comparative Literature that will not count toward the 30 credit hours required for the major.
  4. Six additional courses (18 credits) in Comparative Literature, at least four of which (12 credit hours) must be at the 300 level or above. For students completing a single major in Comparative Literature, up to two courses in other departments may be substituted in accordance with the guidelines established for the optional concentrations (Literature across Cultures, Literature in European Traditions, and Comparative Arts). Consult the Comparative Literature Handbook and the director of undergraduate studies for details. Students completing a double major must consult with advisors in each major regarding stipulations.

Students must also complete the degree requirements of the College of Arts and Sciences.

Recommendations for All Majors

Especially recommended for complementary study are courses in English and foreign language literatures, African studies, African American and African diaspora studies, Asian studies, folklore, history, history and theory of art, history and theory of music, linguistics, philosophy, religion, theatre and drama, and European studies.

It is recommended that majors continue work in a foreign language and literature through three consecutive years, regardless of their proficiency when entering the program. Students intending to do graduate work in comparative literature are advised to begin a second foreign language.