Overview

The Comparative Literature programme at Stanford University provides students with a rigorous intellectual framework for studying the verbal arts across different societies and historical periods. This degree encourages scholars to investigate the fundamental nature of literature and its function as a product of social, economic, and imaginative life.

By engaging with literary theory in all its forms, the curriculum helps to dissolve the traditional boundaries between national fields of study. Students, faculty, and researchers interact closely to shape contemporary debates regarding the methods of textual study and the evolving place of humanities in the modern world.

The department is dedicated to preparing undergraduates for advanced research by fostering deep linguistic skills and historical knowledge.

Why Comparative Literature at Stanford University?

Studying within the School of Humanities and Sciences provides access to a world-class academic environment where interdisciplinary exploration is the standard. The programme is part of the Division of Literatures, Cultures, and Languages, offering a vibrant community for those interested in human cultures and behavior.

Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates diverse perspectives, ranging from ancient knowledge to modern frontiers. The institutional focus on critical analysis and cultural research ensures that learners develop the analytical tools necessary to understand how language shapes our perception of the world and our shared history.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 22577 per semester
National fee: USD 22577 per semester
Local fee: USD 21709 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Comparative Literature
Ancient Knowledge, New Frontiers: How the Greek Legacy Became Islamic Science
Masterpieces: Kafka
Poems, Poetry, Worlds
Literature as Performance
The Novel and the World
Hebrew and Jewish Short Story
Laboring of Diaspora & Border Literary Cultures
Philosophy and Literature
Texts that Changed the World from the Ancient Middle East
Dangerous Ideas
Comparative Fictions of Ethnicity
Black Panther, Hamilton, Díaz, and Other Wondrous Lives

Careers with Comparative Literature

Graduates from this programme are well-equipped for diverse professional paths that require high-level analytical skills and cultural literacy. The ability to interpret complex texts and understand global histories prepares students for roles in international relations, journalism, publishing, and education.

Many alumni pursue further academic research or professional degrees in law and public policy, leveraging their expertise in critical theory and linguistic analysis. The broad scope of the degree allows for flexibility in various industries that value sophisticated communication and a deep understanding of global cultural dynamics.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Capitals: How Cities Shape Cultures, States, and People

What Comparative Literature Is

What Is Comparative Literature?

Film Series: Understanding Turkey Through Film

The Putin Phenomenon: Culture and Politics in Recent Russian History

Love, Passion, and Politics in Chinese Film \

Learning About Human Rights - An International Experiment

Race and Human Rights

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-19 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-05 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Stanford, United States

Disciplines

Literature View 1010 other Bachelors in Literature in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.5

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Coalition Application or Common Application
$90 nonrefundable application fee or fee waiver request
ACT or SAT (Writing/Essay not required) (refer to testing for score reporting policies)
School Report and counselor letter of recommendation
Official transcript(s)
Letters of recommendation from two teachers
Midyear transcript (by February 15)
Standardized testing is one of the application requirements that can highlight academic preparedness. There are no minimum test scores required to be admitted to Stanford, and there is no score that guarantees admission. At Stanford, we review applications holistically, meaning every component of the application is valuable to us as we get to know each student.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

67731 USD / year

≈ 67731 USD / year
Out-of-State

67731 USD / year

≈ 67731 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

67731 USD / year

≈ 67731 USD / year

Additional Details

Tuition per quarter. Students are typically enrolled in classes for three quarters: autumn, winter, spring.

Living costs

Stanford

United States

1100 - 1600 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Comparative Literature.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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