Graduate study in Comparative Literature should not be confused with the study of world literature in translation. Students are urged to read widely. Some reading in translation is necessary, but stress is placed on the reading of texts in the original. Instead of attempting to survey vast areas of literature, the student strives for excellence in his or her principal language(s), in methodology, and in selected areas of literature. The goal of the comparatist is multi-lingual study, with a high proficiency in at least one foreign language. Clearly, students who choose to major in Comparative Literature should have both an aptitude for languages and a deep interest in literary study. The program is delivered by University of South Carolina.

It is the bilingual and cross-cultural stress, more than anything else, that distinguishes the Comparative Literature student from the English major. Hence, all students at the doctoral level are strongly encouraged to spend at least one semester in a country where their first foreign language is spoken. Study Abroad programs are available through the Languages Department whereby a student teaches for a year at a foreign university, for instance at the University of Bamberg or Mulhouse.