Comparative Literature
Program Overview
The Centre for Comparative Literature offers the Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degree programs to students qualified to pursue literary studies involving several languages. Students pursue research across languages and national literatures, and theoretical issues that cross traditional disciplines.
Admissions are selective; therefore, applicants with the minimum qualifications cannot be guaranteed admission.
Applicants, including those from the University of Toronto, must arrange for recommendations from two referees; must submit a statement of up to 500 words; and must submit a sample of written work, preferably a short essay on a literary topic. Admission to all programs for higher degrees will be based upon the applicant’s undergraduate and graduate records and upon the evidence of the references and statement. The deadline for receiving applications to both the MA and PhD programs is January 15.
All incoming students will meet with the Graduate Coordinator to discuss their program and to decide on their course of study before beginning classes.
Quick Facts
| Domestic | International | |
|---|---|---|
| Application deadline | MA, PhD: Fall 2025 entry 15-Dec-2024 | MA, PhD: Fall 2025 entry 15-Dec-2024 |
| Minimum admission average | MA: B+ PhD:A- | MA: B+ PhD:A- |
| Direct entry option from bachelor's to PhD? | PhD: N/A | PhD: N/A |
| Is a supervisor identified before or after admission? | PhD: After | PhD: After |
| If a supervisor is identified after admission (as per question above), is admission conditional upon securing a supervisor? | PhD: No | PhD: No |
| Is a supervisor assigned by the graduate unit or secured by the applicant? | PhD: Secured by student, approved by the Centre | PhD: Secured by student, approved by the Centre |
| Are any standardized tests required/recommended? | MA, PhD: N/A | MA, PhD: N/A |
“What I have always found impressive is U of T’s immense library resources.”
- Teresa Valentini
- PhD Candidate, Comparative Literature