Overview

The English and Comparative Literature programme at Columbia University provides students with a sophisticated framework for studying diverse literary cultures and historical periods. This curriculum encourages scholars to engage deeply with the evolution of language and the complexities of narrative across various international contexts.

Students benefit from a curriculum designed to foster independent research skills and critical thinking. By examining the intersections of different literary movements, participants gain a nuanced understanding of how texts shape and reflect the broader human experience within global societies.

Why English and Comparative Literature at Columbia University?

Choosing this programme allows students to join a prestigious academic community renowned for its contributions to literary theory and criticism. The institution provides access to extensive archival resources and a vibrant intellectual culture that supports interdisciplinary inquiry and scholarly growth.

The faculty consists of leading experts who guide students through complex theoretical landscapes. This environment ensures that graduates are well-prepared to contribute original insights to the field of literary studies while developing professional expertise in a supportive setting.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 36728 per semester
National fee: USD 36728 per semester
Local fee: USD 36728 per semester

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to provide a balance between historical breadth and theoretical depth. Modules may include:

Literary Theory
Comparative Literature
British Literature
Narrative Analysis
Research Methods
Global Poetics
Critical Writing
Cultural Studies

Careers with English and Comparative Literature

Graduates from this programme often pursue successful careers in academia, publishing, and professional writing. The analytical skills developed during the course are highly valued in sectors such as media, cultural consultancy, and international communications.

Many alumni also find opportunities in archival research, library science, and arts administration. The ability to synthesise complex information and communicate effectively ensures that graduates are competitive candidates for roles requiring high-level editorial and critical capabilities.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Gender & Resistance in Early Modern Literature
American Modernism
Resistance Theory & Early Modern Literature
Romantic Poetry
History of the English Novel
Resistance Literature

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-26 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

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Credits

30 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, United States

Disciplines

Language Studies Literature British Studies View 846 other Masters in Language Studies in United States

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Academic requirements

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

100

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

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

Online Application
Three letters of recommendation are required for all degree program applicants
A personal statement is required for admission to each program (with the exception of Introduction to Architecture)
An academic transcript/record from each university attended and credit earned is required for all applicants. All transcripts must be received by the application deadline
Resumé/CV
English 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

73456 USD / year

≈ 73456 USD / year
Out-of-State

73456 USD / year

≈ 73456 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

73456 USD / year

≈ 73456 USD / year

Living costs

Manhattan

United States

2638 - 5751 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 English and 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

Manhattan

Financing

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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