What Can I Do With a Major In Comparative Literature and Intercultural Studies?
UGA Specific Information for Comparative Literature and Intercultural Studies
Comparative Literature differs from other literature concentrations largely through its international focus and broad view of culture. With such a broad focus, students majoring in comparative literature can use their degree in a variety of ways. Generally speaking, anyone who is professionally interested in the interpretation of the written or spoken word—whether lawyer, business person, writer, or humanities professor—can profit from the theory and methods of comparative literature. Opportunities for graduates include education, foreign service, and international business. This field provides students with sensitivity to international cultures and is particularly useful for careers in foreign-service and international trade. Careers in translating, editing, publishing, journalism, broadcasting, public relations, politics, writing, library work, and criticism are also possible career paths.
Class of 2023 Career Outcomes for Comparative Literature and Intercultural Studies*
** Includes Self-Employed
Campus Resources
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Additional UGA Career Center Recommendations
SKILLS
The study of comparative literature allows for the development of an analytical and multi culturally aware interdisciplinary understanding that permits students to succeed in virtually any profession. A sampling of representative skills and abilities follows.
Research
- Gathering information
- Using original sources
- Applying theoretical approaches to problems
- Establishing hypotheses
- Defining problems
- Summarizing and presenting information
- Evaluating results
Critical Thinking
- Approaching problems from diverse perspectives
- Avoiding simplistic conclusions
- Perceiving patterns and structures
- Reading critically
- Thinking independently
Communication
- Writing effectively
- Reading critically
- Conveying complex information
- Speaking to groups
- Presenting research findings
- Creating persuasive messages
- Using precise language
- Assessing an audience
Human Relations
- Understanding human relationships
- Comprehensive knowledge of the origins of western culture
- Appreciation of human history and development
- Identifying cultural/social considerations
- Comparing cultures
SAMPLE INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
- Publishing (e.g., Teacher Magazine, Oxford University Press)
- Advertising (e.g., Redman Communications, TBWA/Chiat Day)
- Marketing (e.g., Leo Burnett USA, McCann Erickson, Saatchi & Saatchi)
- Non-Governmental Organizations (e.g., the World Bank)
- Embassies
- Government (e.g., the State Department)
- Education (e.g., Georgetown University Public Policy Institute, Learning First Alliance, READ Foundation)
- Entertainment (e.g., National Public Radio, DC101 Radio Station, Appel Farm Arts and Music Center)
- U.S. Congress
Interested in graduate school? Find current information on getting into graduate school at UGA’s Career Center webpage.
Additional Career Research Resources
O*NET Online – The O*NET database includes information on skills, abilities, knowledge, work activities, and interests associated with over 900 occupations.
My Next Move – An interactive tool for students and job seekers to learn more about their career options.
Occupational Outlook Handbook – The OOH is a career resource offering information on the hundreds of occupations that provide most of jobs in the United States.
Vault – Vault.com provides in-depth intelligence on what it’s really like to work in an industry, company, or profession – and how to position yourself to land that job.
Candid Career – This resource provides you with access to thousands of informational video interviews with real professionals through an easy-to-use website.
UGA Mentor Program – Connect with a mentor (alumni, faculty, staff) to research and explore industries and careers. Research industries and careers by connecting with a mentor for a quick chat or formal 16-week mentorship through the UGA Mentor Program.
Interstride - Interstride is an interactive tool for both international and domestic students to enhance their international experience and employment potential. The platform consists of job-listings, hiring trends, employer information, self-assessments, and up-to-date immigration guidance.
Glassdoor - Glassdoor is a free jobs and career community that offers an inside look at jobs and companies through "employee generated content" – anonymous salaries, company reviews, interview questions, and more – all posted by employees and job seekers.
Steppingblocks - Research your future career with real-world stats about your major, your interests, and your dream job title with career and education searches designed to find your best path based on millions of others. It’s data-powered career exploration for doers like you.
Employment Websites
General
- Handshake (scroll down to the bottom of the page; login with your UGA MyID and password)
- LinkedIn (this popular networking site also has a job board!)
- Idealist (non-profit jobs)
- USAJobs (federal jobs)
Major/Industry Specific
- GoinGlobal - International (to access, login with your MyID and password)
- American Alliance of Museums
- Cultural Vistas
- National Public Radio
- Non-Profit Career Network
- Opportunity Knocks
- Public Broadcasting Service (PBS)
- Smithsonian Careers/Internships
- The Write Jobs
Professional Associations/Resources
Employers/Position Title Reported by Class of 2023 Comparative Literature and Intercultural Studies majors
The information below represents employers and position titles from the Class of 2023 Career Outcomes Survey. To view historical Career Outcomes for this major, click here and select "Historical Data" from the navigation menu.
| Employer | Position Title(s) |
|---|---|
| Carroll County Probate Court | Intern for Judge Edith F. Haney | Eddie's Attic | Marketing Manager | Simms English | English Teacher |
Graduate/Professional Schools attended by Class of 2023 Comparative Literature and Intercultural Studies majors
The information below represents graduate/professional schools and programs reported through the Class of 2023 Career Outcomes Survey. To view historical Career Outcomes for this major, click here and select "Historical Data" from the navigation menu.
| Graduate School | Program(s) |
|---|---|
| Sciences Po | Public Policy, Master's |