2026-2027 Binghamton University Academic Guide
Department of Comparative Literature
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 Return to: Harpur College of Arts and Sciences
The Department of Comparative Literature at Binghamton has a long-standing reputation for its progressive approach to literary studies and is especially known for its strengths in modern literature, literary theory, relations between literature and other arts (particularly film), and relations between literature and philosophy. It is also known both nationally and internationally for its leadership in the area of translation studies.
The Department of Comparative Literature offers a four-track curriculum for our undergraduate programs:
- general humanities courses that will be of interest to all students
- literature in translation courses for students who want advanced study of literature, as well as other arts and disciplines
- an individualized major program
- a minor program
Our graduate programs provide qualified students with a framework for studying a broad range of literatures, for exploring literature and other arts, and for pursuing translation studies or other forms of interdisciplinary inquiry. To enter one of the degree programs, students must be able to do graduate-level work in one or more foreign languages. In courses in comparative literature, they make substantial use of the foreign languages they command. In addition to the body of knowledge and methodology appropriate to their individual programs of study, students are expected to acquire a considerable familiarity with world literature and with literary theory and criticism.
Students work closely with the departmental director of graduate studies to formulate a curriculum that meets their needs and maintains the standards of the discipline. While the normal patterns of requirements for the MA and PhD degrees are described below, students may have certain courses waived because of their previous training or professional goals.
Departmental Honors
Candidates for honors in the comparative literature major must write an honors thesis with a director chosen from among the comparative literature faculty. To be eligible, students must have a grade-point average of at least 3.5 for courses within the major. They may write their thesis in a single semester by enrolling in COLI 499, Honors Thesis or may choose to devote a full year to the project by enrolling initially in COLI 498, Honors Seminar, and then, in the second semester, in COLI 499. COLI 498 is not a prerequisite for COLI 499; it simply offers students the opportunity to undertake larger projects. Students should consult with the undergraduate director to determine which option will best serve their needs and interests. The designation of honors in comparative literature is awarded to students who receive a grade of at least A- for their honors theses.
Programs
Return to: Harpur College of Arts and Sciences
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