Programme Specification for the 2025/6 academic year
BA (Hons) Comparative Literatures and Cultures with Study Abroad
1. Programme Details
| Programme name | BA (Hons) Comparative Literatures and Cultures with Study Abroad | Programme code | UFA4SMLSML49 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Study mode(s) | Academic year | 2025/6 | |
| Campus(es) | Streatham (Exeter) |
NQF Level of the Final Award | 6 (Honours) |
2. Description of the Programme
Comparative Literatures and Cultures at Exeter is unique for its breadth, introducing you to literature, film and art from around the world, from the ancient to the contemporary. You will be taught by world-leading scholars with expertise in literature and culture from the Middle East, Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia. You will develop the key intercultural understanding and communication skills necessary to be a global citizen. You will study texts and films in English translation and develop your translation literacy, understanding the cultural, political, social and economic forces that shape how material travels from one language and context to another. The programme offers a comparative lens on pressing issues such as migration, the environment and gender and sexuality. There is a strong decolonial focus to the course, both in terms of theory and its commitment to considering literature beyond the Western canon, unlike traditional comparative literature courses.
This programme will prepare you for a range of careers around the world. It includes a compulsory element of either an employability module (e.g. Humanities in the Workplace) or a module preparing you for MA study. You have the option to study abroad and to study a language from one of the 14 on offer across the Faculty, from British Sign Language to Syriac, from Spanish to Mandarin.
As a student on this programme, you will be part of a vibrant research community, home to the Centre for Translating Cultures, the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, the Global China Research Centre, Exeter Centre for Latin America, the Centre for Classical Reception, and many more. You will be studying in a UNESCO City of Literature and benefit from relationships with cultural institutions from the local to the global.
This variant includes a Study Abroad year in Stage 3 of the programme. This variant runs over 4 years.
3. Educational Aims of the Programme
This programme aims to develop your competence in the subject specific and research skills required in Comparative Literatures and Cultures, through extended engagement with literary and cultural primary sources from across the globe, relevant critical material, and both theoretical and historical contexts. You will acquire a thorough grounding in the core methodologies of Comparative Literatures and Cultures, through a programme which engages you imaginatively in the process of understanding and analysing literature, film, and the visual, through study of both broad and detailed focus.
You will train towards a high level of proficiency in intercultural understanding, with the aim of enabling you to communicate readily in personal and professional arenas. Comparative Literatures and Cultures offers detailed subject knowledge, broad coverage and a wide range of choice. Alongside core comparative modules, you can focus on the culture related to one or two languages, or take modules from across a broad spectrum of global cultures. Your progress and decisions along this journey towards a unique degree programme will be carefully supported and monitored by your academic tutor, with whom you will have regular meetings to monitor your academic progress and degree structure.
The programme aims are to:
- Offer a range of options in the literature and cultures of multiple parts of the world. This will enable you, within the boundaries of a coherent degree programme, to develop your own particular interests;
- Provide you with a variety of approaches (both traditional and innovative) to teaching and learning, and a lively and supportive studying environment which stimulates enjoyment and independent study;
- Provide a broad and challenging intellectual education and a foundation of personal and key skills for entering the world of work on graduation, together with a suitable basis for the pursuit of further research;
- Use the research expertise of staff to promote a stimulating interaction of teaching and research within a flexible modular programme structure;
- Enable you to become a reflective and autonomous independent learner.
- Gain experience of study abroad
Comparative Literatures and Cultures, like other programmes offered within the Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences, encourages you to become a global citizen, a questioning member of society, and provides thorough training for further study or a specialist career. You may utilise the skills you develop in a range of sectors, including heritage management, museums and galleries, consultancy, market research, the civil service, education, teaching, new media industries, journalism and publishing, research, charities, information science, advertising and public relations.
4. Programme Structure
5. Programme Modules
The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual programme review of this programme.
Stage 1
30 credits of compulsory modules, 90 credits of optional module
30 credits of a language from across LCVS (including the Language Centre) and IAIS can be taken as modularity, subject to pre-requisites.
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| SML1003 | Comparative Literatures and Cultures: Theories and Approaches | 15 | No |
| SML1004 | Reading Comparatively | 15 | No |
Optional Modules
90 credits of optional modules from a selection from Languages, Cultures and Visual Studies, Classics, the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies and Humanities. These modules are subject to change each year due to availability. Examples from 23/24 include the below. Other literature and culture modules from across the Department of Languages, Cultures and Visual Studies can be taken subject to pre-requisites.
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparative Literature and Cultures Stage 1 Option Modules 2025-6 | |||
| CLA1006 | Greek and Roman Drama | 30 | No |
| SML1207 | Introduction to Film | 15 | No |
| MLF1018 | The Devil is in the Detail: An Introduction to the Short Story in French | 15 | No |
| MLM1014 | Chinese Art and the Art of Living | 15 | No |
| MLP1002 | Introduction to the Lusophone World | 15 | No |
| MLS1064 | An Introduction to the Hispanic World: Texts in Context | 15 | No |
| HAS1002 | Introduction to Black British Studies | 15 | No |
| THE1101 | The Bible: Past and Present | 15 | No |
| SML1002 | Constructing Nature: Stories we Live By | 15 | No |
| MLG1014 | A Nation Remembers: Issues in German Cultural Memory | 15 | No |
| MLI1016 | Italy Inside Out: Popular Visual Narratives about Italy | 15 | No |
| MLR1006 | An Emotional Experience: Russian Literature and the Expression of Feeling | 15 | No |
| MLS1164 | A Journey of Discovery: Hispanic Global Culture | 15 | No |
| AHV1005 | Inside the Museum | 15 | No |
| ARA1021 | Introduction to Persian History and Culture | 15 | No |
| EAS1037 | The Novel | 15 | No |
| EAS1041 | Rethinking Shakespeare | 15 | No |
Stage 2
30–45 credits of compulsory modules, 75–90 credits of optional modules
Alongside the compulsory SML2001 Migrating Texts, students should choose one of HUM2001, HAS2004 or SML2003.
30 credits of a language from across LCVS, Classics and IAIS can be taken as modularity, subject to pre-requisites
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| SML2001 | Migrating Texts: Classical Reception, Adaptation, Translation | 15 | No |
| HAS2010 | Work Experience: Building Skills and Unlocking Opportunities | 15 | No |
| SML2003 | Research Skills in Languages and Cultures | 15 | No |
Optional Modules
75–90 credits of optional modules from a selection from Languages, Cultures and Visual Studies, Classics, the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, English and Humanities. These modules are subject to change each year due to availability. Examples from 23/24 include the below. Other literature and culture modules from across the Department of Languages, Cultures and Visual Studies can be taken subject to pre-requisites.
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparative Literature and Cultures Stage 2 Option Modules 2025-6 | |||
| CLA2006 | Greek and Roman Drama | 30 | No |
| SML2004 | Contemporary Latin American Cinema | 15 | No |
| MLF2005 | Classical myth in French and francophone cinema | 15 | No |
| MLG2003 | Youth and Age: Generations in German Fiction and Film | 15 | No |
| MLI2004 | From Page to Screen: The Italian Female Detective in Literature, Film and Television | 15 | No |
| MLR2026 | The Deceptive City: the Creation of St Petersburg in Russian Literature | 15 | No |
| AHV2023 | Global Impressionisms | 15 | No |
| EAS2103 | Modernism and Modernity: Literature 1900-1960 | 30 | No |
| SML2003 | Research Skills in Languages and Cultures | 15 | No |
| SML2247 | Tales of Freedom, Necessity and Providence | 15 | No |
| MLM2008 | Introduction to Modern Chinese Literature | 15 | No |
| MLM2003 | Chinoiserie and Europeenerie: Artistic and cultural exchanges between China and Europe | 15 | No |
| MLR2025 | Imperfect Murder: Reading Crime and Punishment | 15 | No |
| EAS2113 | Culture, Crisis and Ecology in a Postcolonial World | 30 | No |
Stage 3
120 credits in compulsory module HAS3999.
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| HAS3999 | Study Abroad (HASS) | 120 | Yes |
Stage 4
30 credits of compulsory dissertation, 90 credits of optional modules
90 credits of optional modules from a selection from Languages, Cultures and Visual Studies, Classics, the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, English and Humanities. These modules are subject to change each year due to availability. Examples from 23/24 include the below. From English, you can take EAS3195 or up to 30 credits of other selected English modules. Other literature and culture modules from across the Department of Languages, Cultures and Visual Studies can be taken subject to pre-requisites.
30 credits of a language from across LCVS, Classics and IAIS can be taken as modularity, subject to pre-requisites.
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| SML3030 | Extended Dissertation | 30 | No |
Optional Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparative Literature and Cultures Final Stage Option Modules 2025-6 | |||
| CLA3265 | Art and Visual Culture in the Roman World | 15 | No |
| EAS3194 | Resource Fictions: Oil, Water and Conflict in the World-System | 30 | No |
| EAS3195 | Acts of Writing: From Decolonisation to Globalisation | 30 | No |
| EAS3421 | Picturing the Global City: Literature and Visual Culture in the 21st Century | 30 | No |
| HAS3006 | The Legend of King Arthur | 30 | No |
| MLG3037 | Coping with Catastrophe: German Culture, Literature and Politics in the Interwar Years | 15 | No |
| MLM3009 | China through the Lens: Cultural Translation and Self-Presentation | 15 | No |
| MLR3026 | The Deceptive City: The Creation of St Petersburg in Russian Literature | 15 | No |
| SML3052 | The Place of Meaning: Gardens in Europe and Asia | 15 | No |
| AHV3007 | Global Modernisms | 15 | No |
| ARA3197 | The Arabian Nights: Perception and Reception | 15 | No |
| CLA3275 | Women Writing Classics | 15 | No |
| MLG3036 | Dictatorships on Display: History Exhibitions in Germany and Austria | 15 | No |
| MLM3008 | Introduction to Modern Chinese Literature | 15 | No |
| MLR3125 | Imperfect Murder: Reading Crime and Punishment | 15 | No |
| SML3040 | Women in Translation: Gender and Publishing in the 21st Century | 15 | No |
| SML3041 | Green Matters in Modern Languages and Cultures | 15 | No |
| SML3044 | Migration in World Cinema | 15 | No |
6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods
Intended Learning Outcomes
A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
1. Identify and evaluate the variety of approaches taken within the study of comparative literatures and cultures | ILOs 1-4: The core modules give you a foundation knowledge on which to base your choice of options at higher levels, enabling you to develop skills in comparison and to explore your interest in particular literatures and cultures.
Knowledge of the relevant aspects of literatures and cultures is acquired through lectures and seminars, guided reading of primary and secondary texts (including those in non-printed media, e.g. film and visual art), and directed independent study. You learn to use the critical methodologies appropriate to the options chosen (literary criticism, film studies, etc) through writing essays, preparing seminar presentations and other forms of assessment, following initial guidance from lecturers, and through feedback on work submitted. | ILOs 1-4 are assessed by a combination of presentations, essays, portfolios, creative pieces and other tasks during the modules (collectively described as coursework). Some optional modules may also involve written examinations. |
Intended Learning Outcomes
B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
5. Critically examine forms of discourse through close reading of written, visual and audio-visual texts. | ILOs 5-8 are developed through lectures and seminars in optional modules, with progression from a relatively high level of input from lecturers at stage 1, to greater student autonomy at later stages. Modules at stages 2 and 3 (NQF level 5 and 6) are related to the research specialisms of the staff teaching the module, giving you an insight into relevant research issues. ILO 8 is implicit in all study of the cultures of another country, and all modules challenge you to reflect critically on your receptiveness to foreign cultures | ILOs 5-8 are assessed primarily by coursework and potentially some examinations, as described under A above. |
Intended Learning Outcomes
C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
9. Identify and analyse problems and appropriate strategies for resolving them. | ILOs 9 and 13 are essential elements in all academic study, and are developed by teaching strategies which require progressively more initiative from you as you progress through the programme, at each stage building on the skills which you have acquired at earlier stages. Typically, stage 1 (RQF level 4) modules are largely lecture-based while those at the final stage are based predominantly on seminar-style teaching. ILO 14 is similarly developed throughout the programme. ILOs 10 and 15, communication and interpersonal skills, are developed in seminars, in both giving and responding to presentations. Skills of written communication are developed in essays and other exercises such as book reviews and the dissertation. ILOs 11-12 and 16 are organisational skills which are developed through the experience of preparing essays, presentations and other coursework. Feedback on assessments provides evaluation and comment on these skills, along with other aspects of the work. ILO 17 is developed through word-processing essays, using websites for research and completing forms of coursework such as blog posts or podcasts. Guidance on responsible use of the internet is given in the Undergraduate Student Handbook and is reinforced in feedback given on essays. | ILOs 9 and 13 are skills which underpin successful performance in virtually all academic assessments, whether written or oral. ILO 10, 11 and 16 are assessed by oral presentations, written exams, essays and other forms of coursework. ILO 12 is assessed by the requirement to meet deadlines and observe word lengths or time limits in submitting work for assessment, with penalties if these are not met. ILO 14 is assessed though the increasingly independent coursework undertaken by you as you progress through the programme. ILO 15 Group presentations are assessed in some optional modules; in those where team-working skills are not explicitly assessed, these skills nonetheless contribute to the successful outcome of oral and written presentations. ILO 17 is reflected in the marks awarded for presentation in coursework and the dissertation |
7. Programme Regulations
Classification
Full details of assessment regulations for all taught programmes can be found in the TQA Manual, specifically in the Credit and Qualifications Framework, and the Assessment, Progression and Awarding: Taught Programmes Handbook. Additional information, including Generic Marking Criteria, can be found in the Learning and Teaching Support Handbook.
8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning
As a student within Languages, Cultures and Visual Studies, you will have an academic personal tutor for your entire programme of study to talk to about assessment and feedback, module choice, and any support you may need throughout your studies. There are induction sessions to orientate you at the start of your programme. Academic support will be also be provided by module leaders. You can also make an appointment to see individual teaching staff who will be available at advertised ‘office hours’. Beyond the department, there is a robust system of support including the ‘Wellbeing’ team.
Languages, Cultures and Visual Studies has a close relationship with Exeter City of Literature, providing activities and events including visiting authors, readings and workshops.
The Bill Douglas Cinema Museum houses one of Britain’s largest public collections of books, prints, artefacts and ephemera relating to the history and prehistory of cinema. At the heart of the Centre is the Bill Douglas and Peter Jewell Collection, comprised of approximately 50,000 items.
Other useful information and student resources can be accessed via the Exeter Learning Environment (ELE): ele.exeter.ac.uk/login/index.php, which has specific information on library skills, essay writing and research skills.
9. University Support for Students and Students' Learning
Please refer to the University Academic Policy and Standards guidelines regarding support for students and students' learning.
10. Admissions Criteria
Undergraduate applicants must satisfy the Undergraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.
Postgraduate applicants must satisfy the Postgraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.
Specific requirements required to enrol on this programme are available at the respective Undergraduate or Postgraduate Study Site webpages.
11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards
Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed College assessment and marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures.
The security of assessment and academic standards is further supported through the appointment of External Examiners for each programme. External Examiners have access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. They are required to attend the Board of Examiners and to provide an annual report. Annual External Examiner reports are monitored at both College and University level. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code of practice. See the University's TQA Manual for details.
14. Awarding Institution
University of Exeter
15. Lead College / Teaching Institution
Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (HASS)
16. Partner College / Institution
Partner College(s)
Not applicable to this programme
Partner Institution
Not applicable to this programme.
17. Programme Accredited / Validated by
0
18. Final Award
BA (Hons) Comparative Literatures and Cultures with Study Abroad
19. UCAS Code
Not applicable to this programme.
20. NQF Level of Final Award
6 (Honours)
21. Credit
| CATS credits | 480 |
ECTS credits | 240 |
|---|
22. QAA Subject Benchmarking Group
[Honours] Languages and related studies
23. Dates
| Origin Date | Date of last revision |
|---|
