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Comparative Literature
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PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
This undergraduate degree program is designed to introduce students to the richness of our global literary heritage, to encourage students to become fluent in two or more foreign languages, and to acquaint them with various ways of studying the literary works and cultures of all periods and nations. Comparative literature includes the study of universal values and themes in literature. It also looks at literature in its relationship to other aspects of culture such as folklore, mythology, and film. Comparative literature provides students with the international perspective that is so critical in today’s interdependent world. Students concentrate on two languages/literatures—for example, Spanish and English, or Japanese and Chinese, or Russian and German, according to their interests and preparation.
The major includes a core of courses in comparative literature, plus upper-level coursework in two language/literature fields of the student's choice, one of which may be English. This structure allows students to combine work in languages with the comparative courses that provide a broadly international and intercultural perspective. Comparative Literature can easily be combined with various multiple majors and/or minors in a four-year program. A new integrated B.A./M.A. degree program allows highly qualified students to complete both the bachelors and masters degrees in a total of five years.
RELATED EXPERIENCES
Advisers will suggest ways for students to take advantage of education abroad programs that may fulfill some of the requirements for the major, since living in another culture can immeasurably enrich a student's education and add to provide job qualifications.
CAREER DIRECTIONS
The Department of Comparative Literature offers an optional one credit course in career development designed exclusively for major .
As with other Liberal Arts graduates, comparative literature graduates may find jobs in government service, domestic and foreign offices, the United Nations, the Peace Corps, the U.S. Information Agency, or other international agencies, as well as with international companies and banking houses or U.S. companies abroad. An increasing number of domestic and multinational companies are seeking employees who have backgrounds in multicultural studies as a way of dealing with the global market. Some occupations in which comparative literature graduates are employed include bilingual or language teacher, interpreter, foreign correspondent, Foreign Service officer, public relations specialist, publisher, museum staff member, and positions in the international departments of domestic companies.
Some students go on to graduate school, since a Ph.D. is normally required for teaching in colleges and universities. Comparative Literature majors have also qualified for admission to law or library schools.