Comparative Literature
2016 Rhodes Scholar Billy-Ray Belcourt talks about why he chose to study Comparative Literature at the University of Alberta. He holds a BA (Honors) in Comparative Literature (Department of Modern Languages and Cultural Studies) and served as President of the Aboriginal Students Council at the University of Alberta.
What is Comparative Literature?
"Comparative" is our code word for "expansion of horizons." Why study just American novels, when you can match it up with a little extra from Japan? Or only English poetry, when you can add a bit of Spanish, too? And it is not just languages. Why not work on classic Greek drama and Hollywood blockbusters at the same time? Sounds far-fetched? Well, that's exactly the point!
Why should I be interested?
Our doors are open to anything that can be called literature, from anywhere, in any genre or any language. If it's literature, we go for it.
Our undergrad courses have NO PREREQUISITE at all, which means you can take them at any order you want, any time you want.
Also, although we encourage students to learn other languages, all of the materials are taught IN ENGLISH (as originals or in translation).
What are the options?
The possibilities are endless! Do:
- A major in Comp Lit and a minor in Sociology
- A double major in Comp Lit and Latin American Studies
- A major in Psychology and minor in Comp Lit
- Honors in Comp Lit or Combined Honors in Comp Lit and another subject
Major and Minor at a glance
Comparative Literature as a Major
Effective September 2019, there will be no further admission to this major. Students who entered the program prior to September 2019 must complete all program requirements by April 30, 2023. The last degree with a Comparative Literature major will be granted at Spring Convocation 2023
Comparative Literature as a Minor
A minor in Comparative Literature requires at least *12 in senior level courses with a minimum of 6 at the 300 or 400-level in C LIT or approved cross-listed courses.
Check Cross-Listed Courses for regulations concerning cross-listed courses. Consult Comparative Literature Advisor for information on approved cross-listed courses.
Worried about jobs?
Our graduates are busy in many places, such as:
- Government
- Human resources administration
- Education and teaching
- Law school
- Journalism and publishing
- Diverse administrative positions
General Undergraduate questions can be directed to mlcsug@ualberta.ca or Irene Sywenky, irene.sywenky@ualberta.ca (Comparative Literature - Academic Advisor.)
Courses
The most current Course Listing is available on Bear Tracks
Program Requirements
Please click here to access the University of Alberta Calendar for information on the requirements related to Majors, Minors, Honors or Combined Honors in Comparative Literature