Comparative Literature (MA)

The Master of Arts in Comparative Literature is offered by the Centre for Comparative Literature at the University of Toronto for students pursuing literary studies across several languages. The program emphasizes research spanning multiple languages and national literatures alongside theoretical questions that cross traditional disciplinary boundaries. It is a thesis-track degree that forms part of a combined MA/PhD stream, positioning students for further doctoral study in comparative and world literature. Full-time students typically complete the program over three sessions, about one year, within a three-year full-time completion limit. Coursework is combined with close supervision and an emphasis on comparative theoretical frameworks rather than a single national-literature focus. The program is delivered in person on the St. George campus in downtown Toronto. It suits applicants with strong undergraduate training in literary studies and reading proficiency in more than one language who are seeking a research-oriented graduate degree rather than a professional credential.