The Department of Comparative Literature at University of Oregon is a home for students drawn to the intersection of disciplines, languages, and cultures. In this case “literature” refers both to literature as it is traditionally conceived—fiction, drama, poetry, and literary nonfiction—and to visual and cultural production more broadly. Students in comparative literature have access to award-winning professors, innovative pedagogy, internships, mentorship programs, and publishing opportunities.
Congratulations, Graduating Ducks!
You’ve put in the work and earned the diploma. Now let’s celebrate! On June 15, join your fellow CAS Ducks for this year’s CAS commencement ceremony. Head over to the 2026 CAS Commencement website where you can find ceremony details for each CAS ceremony, logistics and any other answers to all your questions about the big day.
What You Can Do with a Degree in Comparative Literature
Comparative literature adds a level of intellectual rigor and creativity to any career pursuit. Majors in comparative literature pursue careers that emphasize storytelling, research, and analysis, film and visual culture, or political or business-related careers. Professions include:
- Journalist
- Lawyer
- Activist
- Filmmaker
- Writer
- Business executive
- Teacher
- Multimedia designer
- Arts administrator
- Film production
- Non-profit work
- Political advocate
- Environmental planner
Our Degree Programs
The comparative literature major is an individualized program of study with a high degree of flexibility and a supportive community of faculty and students with shared interests and values. Undergraduate students can earn a bachelor of arts (BA), bachelor of science (BS), which have the same requirements, or minor in comparative literature.
The Department of Comparative Literature is administered by a core of permanently appointed faculty members as well as faculty drawn from related departments serving fixed-term appointments. Additional affiliated faculty work with students as teachers and mentors. They are a close collective whose diverse interests, in their aggregate, define a core of inquiry both open and coherent.
Our students extend their learning beyond the classroom through numerous experiential learning opportunities. Become part of the Nomad Mentorship Program, participate in a research-based internship administered by faculty, deepen your study of language and cultures while studying abroad, and complete your degree with an honors thesis.
Scholarships and Funding
Undergraduate students can seek funding through the College of Arts and Sciences, which awards various scholarships to both incoming students and those who are already attending the UO. Select doctoral students receive funding through graduate employment.
Academic Support
Academic advisors in Tykeson Hall help students understand their major or minor requirements, plan their course of study, explore study abroad opportunities, and more.
