Overview

The Comparative Literature programme at the University of California, Santa Barbara provides a comprehensive framework for the doctoral study of global texts and cultural phenomena. Students engage in sophisticated research that transcends traditional national and linguistic boundaries to foster a deep understanding of world literature.

This academic path is designed for those seeking to master literary theory and diverse interdisciplinary methodologies. Candidates are expected to achieve high levels of proficiency in at least two languages in addition to their native tongue, ensuring they can access primary sources and contribute to international scholarship. The curriculum balances linguistic precision with broad pedagogical training to develop versatile experts.

Why Comparative Literature at the University of California, Santa Barbara?

The institution is renowned for its commitment to interdisciplinary excellence, offering students access to a wide array of research emphases. Scholars can specialise in areas such as Translation Studies, Cognitive Science, and Environment and Society, allowing for a highly tailored educational experience that reflects modern academic demands.

Facilities at the University of California, Santa Barbara support intensive linguistic and scholarly development within a collaborative environment. The programme benefits from strong departmental links, enabling students to work across various fields including Feminist Studies, Global Studies, and European Medieval Studies to enrich their primary research focus.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14430 per year
National fee: USD 14430 per year
Local fee: USD 14430 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to provide a foundation in theory while allowing for specialised research. Modules may include:

Comparative Literature
World Literature
Literary Theory
Applied Linguistics
Cognitive Science
Environment and Society
European Medieval Studies
Feminist Studies
Global Studies
Translation Studies
Writing Studies
German Literary Studies
French Literary Studies

Careers with Comparative Literature

Graduates from the University of California, Santa Barbara are well-prepared for prestigious roles within academia as teachers and researchers. They often find employment in national language departments or specialised centres focusing on world literature, English, and ethnic studies. The skills gained during the programme are highly transferable to various professional sectors.

Beyond the university setting, alumni pursue successful careers in international journalism, publishing, and the legal profession. The programme's emphasis on multi-cultural perspectives and linguistic expertise also opens doors to opportunities in diplomacy, non-profit organisations, business, and library studies, where global communication is essential.

Programme Structure

Courses

Global Humanities

World Literature and Cognitive Science

Children’s Literature

Fantasy and the Fantastic

The Jewish Graphic Novel

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-17 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

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IELTS

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Barbara, United States

Disciplines

Literature View 350 other Masters in Literature in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

Required

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

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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

Online application

Statement of Purpose, Personal Achievements/Contributions, and Resume or CV (submitted in the online application)

Three Letters of Recommendation (submitted online)

Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended (submitted online)

Writing sample in English of no more than 25 pages (submitted in the online application)

Competence in a foreign language

Final/Official transcripts

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

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year
Out-of-State

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14430 USD / year

≈ 14430 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Barbara

United States

1640 - 2480 USD / month

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

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master'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.

On this page

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

Santa Barbara

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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