Comparative Literature Major Related Careers
The following careers are directly or indirectly related to the study of this major. Click the job title to learn more about it. To search for more career options, visit OnetOnline.org.
Comparative Literature
Comparative literature (CMLT) is the study of literature from all around the world, across national, linguistic, temporal, and cultural boundaries. That is one sense of “comparative.” The other sense is relating literature to film, the visual arts, music, history, politics, science, and other spheres of knowledge. Comparative literature aims to understand the human experience in the broadest spectrum. Through their coursework, students learn to analyze literary texts and cultural phenomena, to appreciate forms of beauty high and low, and to reflect on intriguing questions of existence.
This major is ideal for those who want to explore the most thought-provoking literature, art, and ideas that the world has to offer, without being limited to one particular national tradition. All readings are in English, and the curriculum, rather than imposing a strict course of study, emphasizes giving students the freedom to select courses according to their particular interests. The most enthusiastic students may consider enrolling in the honors program to write a thesis in the senior year.
Comparative literature students often double major. Some common companionate majors include: English, a foreign language and literature, Fine Arts, Folklore, Philosophy, Religious Studies, and Theatre and Drama
For detailed information about degree requirements, visit the most recent College of Arts & Sciences Academic Bulletin.
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Academic information
University Division's Explore Programs tool is the place to go for academic information about any IUB major, minor, or certificate.
Open in Explore ProgramsCareer Interests
John Holland developed a theoretical framework consisting of six general themes that describe broad areas interest relating to self and the working world. If you are interested in discovering your career interests, visit our Learn more about yourself page to learn about the Strong Interest Inventory.
This major consists of the following themes:
- Investigative
- Artistic
- Enterprising
Comparative Literature Major Related Skills
Below is a sampling of skills related to this major mapped from the Skillscan Driver Assessment. The SkillScan assessment provides a simple 3-step process to help you learn about your strengths and weaknesses, the skills you enjoy and want to use in a career and those skills needing development. Consider taking the SkillScan assessment to better understand your skills as it relates to majors at IU.
Analytical
- Analyze
- Research
Communication
- Listen
- Speak or Interact
- Write
Management or Leadership
- Manage Projects
- Coordinate
Creative
- Visualize
- Conceptualize
- Author or Compose
Career Guides
Our unique IU Career Guides offers the A-Zs of each field’s preferred educational backgrounds, as well as employment opportunities and insider tips, industry-related interview questions, and a lot more. Below are related career guides for this major.