Graduate Studies in Comparative Literature

The Comparative Literature program at Washington University in St. Louis offers an M.A., a Ph.D., and a combined Ph.D. with Chinese, English, French, German, Japanese, or Spanish, as well as a certificate in Translation Studies.

The Ph.D. in Comparative Literature

The Ph.D. in Comparative Literature at Washington University is a 72-credit program, including 66 units of coursework and 6 units of dissertation credit. Course distribution includes at least 12 credits in Comparative Literature seminars, including CL 402, 12 credits in one national literature, and 6 credits in a second national literature. The program also requires the study of a third discipline relevant to the student's intellectual and critical concerns: English or another national literature, music, the plastic arts, philosophy, history, film. Click HERE for a sample guide through the Ph.D. program requirements.

The M.A. in Comparative Literature

The M.A. in Comparative Literature requires 36 hours of coursework, including CL 402 Introduction to Comparative Literature and three additional courses in Comparative Literature on the 400 or 500 level. The remaining 24 hours of course work on the 400 and 500 level may be pursued in Comparative Literature or in affiliated departments or programs. Students desiring to be admitted to the Ph.D. should plan their course of study so as to build a solid foundation for the Ph.D. All students earning an M.A. in Comparative Literature must demonstrate superior skills in English and, as a minimum, reading ability in one additional language pertinent to their areas of interest. Click HERE for a sample guide through the M.A. program requirements.

Teaching

Students funded by teaching fellowships (TAs) teach in Comparative Literature and/or in one of our allied programs, including language instruction. In order to be qualified to serve as a Teaching Assistant in a language department, students may be required to take the relevant course in language pedagogy.

Study Abroad

Students are encouraged to spend time abroad either for language study or research or both. Extended periods of study may be supported through University grants or funding from external sources, such as Fulbright fellowships and grants from the U.S. and other governments. Washington University maintains relations with universities, research centers, and libraries in the U.S. and abroad that can provide research assistance to qualified students.