Honors Program

Students in their final year who are majoring in Comparative Literature, with a cumulative GPA above 3.0 and a major GPA of 3.5 or higher, are eligible to participate in the Honors Program!

The Honors Program offers an independent research experience that enhances the Comparative Literature major by preparing students for graduate study or professional careers that require analytical thinking and initiative. In consultation with a faculty sponsor, you will design and complete an original Honors Thesis over two consecutive semesters.

In the first semester, you enroll in COLT 490 (Directed Research) to conduct academic research on your chosen topic. In the second semester, you enroll in COLT 495 (Senior Honors Thesis) to write the thesis under individual faculty supervision.

You should discuss your interest in the Honors Program with the Departmental Undergraduate Adviser at least one year (two semesters) before graduation.

How to Enroll

• Meet with the Director of Undergraduate Studies.
• Find a Comparative Literature faculty member to sponsor and direct your project.
• Submit the approval request FORM online.
• Enroll in COLT 490 and then COLT 495 for two consecutive semesters.
• Begin your research and write your Honors Thesis.

To qualify for the award of honors, both your thesis director and a second reader must approve the completed thesis. Upon approval, you will receive Departmental Honors on your transcript and be invited to present your work at the annual Honors Showcase at the end of the academic year.