Overview

The B.A. in Comparative Literature-Theory at the University of Pennsylvania provides students with a sophisticated intellectual foundation for analysing literature from cross-cultural and global perspectives. This concentration is designed for those who wish to examine the variety of meanings texts acquire within different institutional and philosophical contexts. By integrating diverse academic fields, the curriculum prepares graduates for a cosmopolitan professional landscape.

Why Comparative Literature-Theory at the University of Pennsylvania?

This programme is highly flexible, allowing students to engage with multiple departments across the College of Arts & Sciences. It is particularly suited for those with interests spanning national literatures, political theory, art, aesthetics, film, and music. Students benefit from a curriculum that bridges the gap between traditional literary study and contemporary theoretical inquiry, supported by the university's extensive research facilities.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 63204 per year
National fee: USD 63204 per year
Local fee: USD 63204 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum requires a minimum of 34 course units, including core requirements and specialised theory modules. Modules may include:

Literary Study
Narrative Across Cultures
World Literature
Literary Theory
History of Literary Criticism
Honors Thesis
Independent Study

Careers with Comparative Literature-Theory

Graduates of this concentration develop advanced analytical and communication skills that are increasingly in demand across various sectors. The cosmopolitan intellectual background provided by the programme prepares students for diverse career paths in academia, international relations, and cultural consultancy. Many graduates also pursue roles in industries where critical thinking and cross-cultural understanding are essential, such as media, law, and publishing.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Literary Study

Narrative Across Cultures

World Literature

Literary Theory

Literary Criticism

Literary Theory, Ancient to Modern

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-26 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-05 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

130

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TOEFL^® IBT

100

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IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Philadelphia, United States

Disciplines

Literature View 1010 other Bachelors in Literature in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

130

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Common Application or Coalition Application & Penn-specific Essay

Official High School Transcript

School Report

Counselor Recommendation

Academic Teacher Evaluations (2)

Early Decision Agreement (only if applying for Early Decision)

Mid-Year Report

Final Report

SAT or ACT

English language proficiency

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

63204 USD / year

≈ 63204 USD / year
Out-of-State

63204 USD / year

≈ 63204 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

63204 USD / year

≈ 63204 USD / year

Living costs

Philadelphia

United States

1313 - 2284 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-Theory.

Available Scholarships

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

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Philadelphia

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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