Comparative Literature

Comparative Literature at Western University offers an in-depth exploration of literary traditions, texts, and cultures from across the globe. This interdisciplinary program encourages students to analyze literature in its various forms—novels, poetry, drama, and digital media—while examining how different cultural, historical, and linguistic contexts influence literary expression. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students gain critical skills in close reading, theoretical analysis, and cultural critique, preparing them for careers in academia, publishing, journalism, cultural advocacy, and beyond.

The program emphasizes cross-cultural dialogue and the interconnectedness of literary works, fostering an understanding of global perspectives and diverse narratives. Students are encouraged to study multiple languages and are provided opportunities to engage with foreign literatures and translations, enhancing their intercultural competence. The curriculum includes core courses in literary theory, critical approaches, and historical periods, alongside specialized options such as postcolonial studies, world literature, gender studies, and digital humanities.

Research mentorship is a key feature of the program, with students participating in faculty-led projects and seminars that cultivate analytical and rhetorical skills. The program also promotes experiential learning through internships, study abroad experiences, and collaborations with cultural organizations. Graduates of the Comparative Literature program develop versatile skills highly valued in various fields, including analytical thinking, effective communication, and cultural awareness.

Whether pursuing further academic study or entering the professional workforce, students leave Western University's Comparative Literature program equipped with a deep appreciation of literary diversity and a nuanced understanding of global cultural dynamics. The program is designed to challenge, inspire, and prepare students to become thoughtful critics and engaged global citizens.

• A written examinations (“area examination”) in areas of literary history or in literary theory to be selected in consultation with the Program Chair.
• The second examination requires students to write and orally defend a field paper (30-40 pages), or an academic article (c. 20 pages) ready to be submitted for publication, which deals in depth with a topic adjacent to their thesis project.  The Oral defense of the field paper will have a structure similar to that of a thesis defense, comprising a committee of three examiners and a chair of the examination.  The defense usually takes 1-11/2 hours.
• The third (“thesis prospectus examination”) is an oral examination, based on a written prospectus and bibliography assembled by the candidate, in the area of the candidate’s proposed doctoral dissertation. It is expected that this prospectus (20-30 pages, which should include a discussion of the main argument(s) of the dissertation and a sketch of the chapter structure) and bibliography will be prepared in consultation with the dissertation supervisor(s), who must be identified before work on the area of concentration can begin. The supervisor(s) must have membership in the core faculty of the Comparative Literature program.
• Doctoral Dissertation
• In addition to the course work, comprehensives, and the dissertation, each PhD student is encouraged to participate both in the fall-term Comparative Literature Research Forum, in the winter-term graduate thesis seminars, in which MA students present and discuss their research projects, and in the Annual Graduate Student Conference.

Requirements

• A minimum average of A- (80%) in a Master's degree.
• Proficiency in two languages in addition to English, at a level sufficient to do graduate-level work on texts in those languages.
• A sample of written work in English (no less than 10 pages, no more than 20 pages)
• The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Minimum acceptable score is 550 for the paper and pencil version, 213 for the computer version, or 86 for the internet version with no individual score below 20. [Western's TOEFL ID is 0984].
• The International English Language Testing Service (IELTS). Minimum acceptable score is 6 out of 9.
• CultureWorks. The requirement is successful completion of the High-Advanced level. 
• Online Application
• References. We will email your referees within 24 hours of entering or updating your reference information. Each reference will be collected by Western and distributed alongside your application once it arrives. No paper reference letters are required.
• Academic History. We ask that you supply Western with a listing of all post‐secondary schools you have attended.
• Transcripts
• Letters of reference

Scholarships

• Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)
• Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

The Bachelor of Arts in Comparative Literature at Western University offers students an extensive exploration of literature across different cultures, languages, and time periods. This interdisciplinary program encourages critical analysis of texts from around the world, fostering a deeper understanding of cultural diversity and the interconnectedness of global literary traditions. Students engage with works in various languages, often requiring proficiency in at least one language other than English, and develop skills in close reading, textual analysis, and theoretical critique. The curriculum combines core courses in literary theory, history of literature, and cultural studies with specialized electives focusing on specific geographic regions, themes, or genres, such as Shakespearean drama, postcolonial narratives, modern poetic movements, and more.

The program aims to cultivate versatile skills valuable in numerous careers, including research, academia, publishing, journalism, and international relations. Students also have opportunities for research projects, study abroad programs, and internships, enriching their academic experience and enhancing their professional preparedness. Faculty members are distinguished scholars with expertise spanning multiple literary and cultural areas, offering personalized mentorship and innovative teaching approaches. Graduates of the Comparative Literature program at Western University often pursue graduate studies in literature, translation, linguistics, or related fields, or enter the workforce equipped with a broad and nuanced understanding of global literary landscapes. The program emphasizes analytical thinking, cultural awareness, and effective communication, preparing students to navigate and interpret complex cultural texts in an increasingly interconnected world.