The Department of Comparative & World Literature at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, offers two major concentrations and one minor. The Major in Comparative Literature provides an engagement with two or more literary and cultural traditions, studied in their original languages. The Major in World Literature retains the comparative and international dimension of comparative literature, but focuses on literature and culture from around the globe in English translation (no foreign language required). A Minor in World Literature introduces students to the study of literature and culture as a discipline, with emphasis on cross-cultural, transnational, and interdisciplinary practices. Study Abroad and work in other disciplines is strongly encouraged.

For questions about the Undergraduate Program, please contact the Director of Undergraduate Studies, Prof. John Levi Barnard (jbarnard@illinois.edu).

View an undergrad profile in our Department Newsletters.