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The Department of Comparative Literature explores a wide range of global literary traditions and cultural studies. Its faculty comprises: authorities on English and American literature, classical scholars examining ancient civilizations and their enduring influence, French and Francophone specialists, researchers concentrating on Iberian and Latin American cultures, professors with expertise in German, Italian, Nordic, Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, and contemporary Greek studies, academics dedicated to post-colonial research, theorists investigating linguistic philosophy, and translation scholars. Since establishing its graduate program in 1964, the department has expanded beyond Western traditions to incorporate Chinese, Japanese, and Arabic studies. Collaborating with other literature departments, it provides diverse courses in literary analysis, critical theory, and cultural examination. The department boasts 25 faculty members with full or joint appointments. As part of a mid-sized department in a compact university, graduate students benefit from exceptional access to faculty both during and beyond class time. The program provides personalized mentorship, including career development support, and hosts multiple annual academic events including colloquiums, lectures, and discussion forums.
Graduates of non-U.S. colleges and universities who have completed the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree may apply for admission to the Brown University Graduate School.
Regarding TOEFL, the recommended minimum score for admission consideration is 577 on the paper-based test and 90 on the Internet-based test. For IELTS, the recommended minimum overall band score is 7.