What are some good topics for a compare and contrast essay at the college level?

It’s smart to look for something beyond the obvious or overdone topics, since a strong compare and contrast essay at the college level should demonstrate thoughtful analysis, not just surface similarities and differences. Colleges like to see nuanced thinking, original connections, and the ability to engage critically with complex issues. Here are a few areas that have worked well for students:

1. "Compare the approach to justice in two different legal systems (for example, the U.S. versus Japan or Germany)." This goes beyond basic cultural differences and lets you dig into philosophical and practical contrasts—how does the concept of rehabilitation versus punishment play out in each?

2. "Contrast dystopian societies as depicted in George Orwell’s ‘1984’ and Margaret Atwood’s ‘The Handmaid’s Tale.’" You can look into how each author frames oppression, resistance, and the role of language, making sure to cite specific passages. This lets you blend literary analysis with contemporary relevance.

3. "Compare two moments in history that deal with similar themes, such as the French Revolution and the Arab Spring." Instead of listing similarities, analyze the root causes, short- and long-term outcomes, or the role of technology/media in both movements. This approach demonstrates the ability to think across time periods and recognize patterns.

4. "Contrast the growth strategies of two major tech companies (like Apple and Tesla) and how their corporate cultures influence innovation." This topic lets you explore business, psychology, and technology, and could allow you to reference real-world examples from news or earnings reports.

5. "Compare two artistic reactions to trauma—such as Picasso’s ‘Guernica’ and Maya Lin’s Vietnam Veterans Memorial." How does each work convey memory, grief, or protest? This invites close analysis of form, emotion, and societal impact.

If you want it to feel personal, try connecting your topic to something you genuinely care about or have studied outside of class. For example, if you’re interested in environmental issues, compare the effectiveness of two different climate change policies enacted in different countries or states.

Whatever topic you choose, make sure you’re going beyond the surface. Ask yourself: What does this comparison reveal that would be impossible to see if I discussed each subject alone? Can I uncover subtle or unexpected implications? Being willing to challenge your initial assumptions will help ensure your essay stands out.