Comparative Literature and German

Comparative literature and German places two of the humanities' most intellectually ambitious disciplines alongside each other. Comparative literature examines texts across languages, cultures, and periods, asking what can be learned when you read without the constraint of national literary canons, and how different traditions illuminate each other. German gives the comparative approach a specific linguistic grounding, opening access to one of the richest literary and philosophical traditions in European history, from Goethe, Schiller, and Heine to Brecht, Kafka, Celan, and contemporary writers.

At the University of St Andrews, this four-year full-time programme draws on expertise from across the School of Modern Languages and beyond. Comparative literature modules invite you to read texts from a wide range of traditions in English translation, developing your capacity for cross-cultural analysis and literary comparison, while the German strand builds your proficiency in the language alongside deep engagement with German literary and cultural history. The programme includes a year abroad, giving you the opportunity to study in a German-speaking country and to immerse yourself in the language and culture that the degree places at its centre.

The typical entry tariff of 200 points reflects the competitive nature of entry at St Andrews.

You will develop linguistic proficiency in German, sophisticated comparative analytical skills, critical writing of a high standard, and the cultural knowledge to engage seriously with literary traditions from both Germany and the wider world.

Graduates pursue careers in publishing, journalism, translation, education, the cultural sector, international business with a German-speaking focus, diplomacy, and academia. Postgraduate study in German, comparative literature, translation studies, or European studies is a natural continuation for those wishing to specialise.