Comparative Literature: Theory, BA
The undergraduate program in Comparative Literature welcomes students interested in the study of literature from theoretical, interdisciplinary, cross-cultural, and global perspectives. The core courses train students to appreciate the variety of meanings that texts acquire in different institutional and philosophical contexts and different socio-political frameworks. There are three concentrations within the major: National and Transnational Literatures (four courses in each of two languages), Theory, and Globalization.
Comparative Literature is a flexible program, allowing students to take courses in a variety of departments in the College. Students with interests in more than one national literature and in fields such as philosophy and political theory, art and aesthetics, and film and music will find the requirements congenial. The program provides students with a cosmopolitan intellectual background that is increasingly in demand today.
The minimum total course units for graduation in this major is 34. Double majors may entail more course units.
For more information: http://ccat.sas.upenn.edu/Complit/undergraduate.htm
For information about the General Education requirements, please visit the College of Arts & Sciences Curriculum page.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| College General Education Requirements and Free Electives | ||
| Foundational Approaches + Sectors1 + Free Electives | 20 | |
| Major Requirements | ||
| Core Requirements | ||
| Core Course 1 | ||
| COML 1000 | Introduction to Literary Study | 1 |
| or COML 1025 | Narrative Across Cultures | |
| or COML 1191 | World Literature | |
| Core Course 2 | ||
| COML 1400 | Introduction to Literary Theory | 1 |
| or COML 0540 | Benjamin Franklin Seminar: History of Literary Criticism | |
| Core Course 3: Capstone Seminar or Thesis | 1 | |
| Select one of the following: | ||
| Independent Study | ||
| Independent Study | ||
Advanced Elective | ||
| Comparative Literature Electives 2 | ||
| Select 2 COML Electives | 2 | |
| Select 1 Non-Western or Post-Colonial elective | 1 | |
| Concentration Requirements 3,4 | ||
| Select 4 Theory Courses 5 | 4 | |
| Select 4 Advanced Literature or Film Courses 6 | 4 | |
| Total Course Units | 34 | |
- 1
You may count no more than one course toward both a Major and a Sector requirement. For Exceptions, check the Policy Statement.
- 2
Must be COML courses.
- 3
All Concentration courses to be chosen in consultation with the Undergraduate Chair.
- 4
Must include courses in Literature or Film and Theory.
- 5
4 course units must be Theory courses.
- 6
4 course units must be Advanced Literature or Film courses, of which at least two must be taught in a language other than English, and one must be in non-western or in post-colonial literature.
Honors
Applicants must have an overall GPA of 3.4 and a GPA of 3.6 in major related courses.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| COML 4998 | Honors Thesis (required) | 1 |
| COML 4999 | Independent Study (required) | 1 |
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2023 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.