UNIVERSITY OF CANTERBURY · NEW ZEALAND
English Study Options
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
Studying English at the University of Canterbury (UC) involves critically examining established ideas about power, knowledge, and identity. Through open debate and rigorous analysis, you'll explore what it means to be human and understand the cultural and natural worlds we inhabit. The program encourages deep engagement with texts, fostering strong analytical and argumentative skills essential for both academic and professional life. You will join a community dedicated to understanding the vast world of literature and developing your own voice as a reader and writer.
Curriculum
The English program offers various pathways, including undergraduate study, Honours, Master of Arts (MA), and Master of Writing degrees. The Bachelor of Arts in English focuses on close reading, theoretical approaches, and diverse literary forms, from poetry and plays to comic books and film. Courses cover a wide historical and geographical range of literatures. Postgraduate study allows for advanced research and specialization, including thesis-based work or coursework focused on professional, academic, and creative writing.
- Year 1 (BA)
- Introduction to English Studies
- Honours
- Arts Research and Scholarship: Introduction to Theories and MethodsARTS401
- Research EssayENGL480
- Master of Arts (MA)
- 400-level papers
- ThesisENGL690
- Master of Writing
- Advanced textual analysis and written communication courses
Careers
Graduates develop strong analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills, highly valued in various sectors. The Master of Arts is particularly recognized by government departments and businesses. The Master of Writing degree prepares graduates for diverse careers in professional, academic, creative, and technical writing.
- Analysts
- Writers (professional, academic, creative, technical)
- Researchers
- Communicators
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for undergraduate English study?
- For the Bachelor of Arts in English, you typically need a minimum of seven English courses, including at least two at the 300-level. Discretionary admission might be possible with six English courses if one 300-level course is in another subject.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Information on specific international tuition fees is not provided in detail, but they are stated to be separate from domestic fees. Further details can be found via the provided links.
- How long is the Bachelor of Arts in English program?
- The programme structure indicates Year 1 for the Bachelor of Arts (BA), followed by Honours, Master of Arts (MA), or Master of Writing degrees, which would extend the study duration.
- What is the language of instruction for this programme?
- The programme is 'English Study Options', indicating that the language of instruction is English.
- How do I apply for postgraduate study, such as the Master of Arts?
- For postgraduate programs like the MA, it is advisable to contact the Honours Coordinator or Postgraduate Coordinator well in advance to discuss your interests. You will also need to submit your full academic record by 1 December of the preceding year.
- Are there scholarships available for international students?
- Yes, several scholarships are available, including the Manaaki NZ Scholarships (government-funded), UC Scholarships (searchable online), and others like the Graduate Women Canterbury (Inc.) Trust Board Scholarship and Pacific Community Scholarship, depending on your background and study level.
Entry requirements
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) / Master of ArtsA minimum of seven English courses, including at least two at 300-level. Discretionary admission may be possible with six English courses if one 300-level course is in another subject. For MA thesis, Second Class Honours Division One at 400-level is normally expected. For PhD, standard University PhD admission requirements apply, with expertise and library resources being key factors. For Graduate Diploma, a completed degree in another field is required, plus five undergraduate English courses including three at 300-level, with Head of Department approval.
Graduates of other universities (Honours)Equivalent prerequisites to UC's program. Submit full academic record details to the Honours Coordinator by 1 December of the preceding year.
For 400-level courses, contact the Honours Coordinator in advance. For PhD, discuss proposals with the Postgraduate Coordinator. Standard pre-enrolment and enrolment procedures with the Registry must be completed.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified.
Tuition (home)Domestic students have a 'pay-as-you-learn' option, paying per course plus a student levy annually. Specific fees for MBA are approximately $43,931 (2026 rates, 180 points).
LivingNot specified.
International tuition fees are separate from domestic fees. Information on specific international fees can be found via provided links.
How to apply
1. Check Admission RequirementsReview the specific academic and English language requirements for your chosen program (BA, MA, PhD, etc.). Ensure you meet the prerequisites, especially for postgraduate study. For international applicants, pay attention to visa requirements.
2. Prepare DocumentationGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, certificates, proof of English proficiency (if applicable), a CV, and potentially a research proposal for postgraduate degrees. International applicants may need additional documents for visa applications.
3. Contact the Department (Postgraduate)For Honours, MA, or PhD programs, it is advisable to contact the Honours Coordinator or Postgraduate Coordinator well in advance to discuss your intentions, research interests, and potential supervisors. This helps in planning and ensuring the university has the necessary expertise and resources.
4. Submit ApplicationComplete the official enrolment application process through the University of Canterbury's registry or admissions portal. Adhere to any specified application deadlines.
5. Complete EnrolmentOnce accepted, complete the formal enrolment procedures by the specified deadlines. This includes course registration and fee payments.
Scholarships
The Gough MBA Leaders ScholarshipFinancial support
Graduate Women Canterbury (Inc.) Trust Board Scholarship—
Pacific Community Scholarship—
Ngāi Tahu Research Centre Postgraduate Scholarship—
Manaaki NZ ScholarshipsFull scholarships
UC Scholarships—
Commitment to Continuous LearningOne free course per year
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for undergraduate English study?
+
For the Bachelor of Arts in English, you typically need a minimum of seven English courses, including at least two at the 300-level. Discretionary admission might be possible with six English courses if one 300-level course is in another subject.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Information on specific international tuition fees is not provided in detail, but they are stated to be separate from domestic fees. Further details can be found via the provided links.
How long is the Bachelor of Arts in English program?
+
The programme structure indicates Year 1 for the Bachelor of Arts (BA), followed by Honours, Master of Arts (MA), or Master of Writing degrees, which would extend the study duration.
What is the language of instruction for this programme?
+
The programme is 'English Study Options', indicating that the language of instruction is English.
How do I apply for postgraduate study, such as the Master of Arts?
+
For postgraduate programs like the MA, it is advisable to contact the Honours Coordinator or Postgraduate Coordinator well in advance to discuss your interests. You will also need to submit your full academic record by 1 December of the preceding year.
Are there scholarships available for international students?
+
Yes, several scholarships are available, including the Manaaki NZ Scholarships (government-funded), UC Scholarships (searchable online), and others like the Graduate Women Canterbury (Inc.) Trust Board Scholarship and Pacific Community Scholarship, depending on your background and study level.