Overview

This advanced research degree in Comparative Literature is designed for individuals eager to critically engage with literary studies and various cultural forms, particularly within visual studies, across multiple linguistic, regional, or national frameworks. The programme is anchored in the expertise of our academic staff who specialise in French, German, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, and Spanish-speaking cultures, encouraging research proposals that traverse these areas in a transnational context.

At Birkbeck, students are initially enrolled in the MPhil programme, with the opportunity to upgrade to a PhD after demonstrating satisfactory progress during the first one to two years. The programme culminates in the submission of a substantial dissertation, which typically ranges from 60,000 to 100,000 words. Students are expected to find a suitable academic supervisor at Birkbeck, who will provide the necessary guidance and support throughout their research journey.

Why Comparative Literature at Birkbeck?

Birkbeck's reputation for research excellence was affirmed in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), with 83% of our research deemed world-leading or internationally excellent. Our multidisciplinary team of academics brings together diverse research and teaching expertise in languages including French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish, fostering a rich environment for scholarly exchange. Additionally, our affiliated research centres, such as the Centre for Iberian and Latin American Visual Studies (CILAVS) and the Centre for French, Francophone and Comparative Studies (CFFCS), enhance the collaborative research culture.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the Comparative Literature MPhil/PhD programme are as follows:

• Full-time international students: £15,570 per year
• Part-time international students: £7,870 per year
• Full-time home students: £5,006 per year
• Part-time home students: £2,656 per year

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

Syllabus

The indicative research areas within the Comparative Literature programme include:

• Canon formation
• French language, literature, and culture
• German language, literature, and culture
• Japanese language, literature, and culture
• Literary and film history
• Intermediality, intertextuality, and translation across genres and media
• Portuguese language, literature, and culture
• Spanish language, literature, and culture
• Transnational cultural theory and criticism in all the above languages
• Visual culture

Careers with Comparative Literature

Graduates of the Comparative Literature programme find themselves well-prepared for diverse career paths. Alumni have successfully pursued roles in academia, research, publishing, and cultural institutions. The skills gained through this programme enable graduates to engage critically with complex texts and cultural phenomena, making them valuable assets in various sectors, including education, media, and the arts.