The Comparative Literature MA program is a course-based program that accommodates a diverse range of students’ interests. The interdisciplinary and transnational character of the program is reflected in the fact that students may take up to half their courses in other departments of their choice. Students work in languages other than English, and their study may include work in a non-literary discipline. The COL1000H The Bases for Comparison provides a basis for study in the program. All incoming students take this seminar course where they consider core theoretical problems of comparison.
All incoming students meet with the Associate Director to discuss their program and to decide on their course of study before beginning classes.
Master of Arts
Minimum Admission Requirements
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General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies, provided that applicants also satisfy the Centre for Comparative Literature's requirements stated below. In all cases, programs of study must be approved by the Centre.
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An appropriate bachelor's degree from a recognized university that includes courses in literature and languages with an average grade equivalent to at least a University of Toronto B+ in the applicant's overall program.
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Demonstrated experience in the study of two literatures (or in comparative literature and one national literature) at the undergraduate level and an ability to work at the graduate level in at least one language other than English.
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All applicants must register as full-time students.
Completion Requirements
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Students admitted to the MA must successfully complete at least 4.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) including:
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COL1000H The Bases for Comparison
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at least 1.5 FCEs in COL courses.
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Students may pursue independent research for credit equivalent to 0.5 FCE at the MA level, under the direction of an advisor approved by the Centre for Comparative Literature.
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A plan of study is defined by each MA student through consultation with the Associate Director in light of the student's particular areas of interest and background. This plan of study is subject to the approval of the Centre for Comparative Literature. In addition to the numerous courses in literary theory, methodology, and interdisciplinary topics offered by the Centre, courses may also be selected from departments of language and literature, as well as from other units in the humanities.
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Average of at least B+ in coursework.
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MA students who intend to pursue doctoral studies are strongly advised to make appropriate plans for the acquisition of graduate level competence in a second language and literature other than English. An adequate reading knowledge of this second language must be demonstrated before the MA is received.
Program Length: 3 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: FWS)
Time Limit: 3 years full-time