UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY · CANADA
Master of Arts in English (Thesis-Based)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 2 yearsProgram Duration
- Thesis-basedProgram Type
- Creative Writing OptionSpecialization
- Develop research & writing skillsKey Outcome
- Prepares for PhDFurther Study Pathway
This thesis-based Master of Arts in English program is designed for creative and curious individuals who want to deepen their understanding of English literature and develop rigorous research and writing skills. Over two years of full-time study, you will complete a substantial research or creative project culminating in a thesis that you will defend orally. The program offers a specialization in Literature in English, with an option for creative writing within that specialization. Graduates are well-prepared for doctoral studies, careers in academia, publishing, and various creative industries.
Curriculum
The program requires six courses at the English 600 or 700 level, in addition to a mandatory graduate pro-seminar focused on critical skills and professional issues in graduate-level literary study. The capstone of the program is the research thesis.
- Year 1
- Year 2
Careers
Graduates of the MA in English program have pursued diverse career paths and further academic study. The program equips students with advanced analytical, research, and communication skills applicable to a wide range of professional fields.
- Editing
- Publishing
- Law School
- Archival Work
- Educational Software Development
- Post-secondary Teaching
- Government Administration and Policy
- Communications
- Technical Writing
- Creative Writing
- Digital and Online Publishing
- Non-profit Organizations and NGOs
Frequently asked questions
- What are the admission requirements for the MA in English program?
- You need a four-year undergraduate degree in English or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.3. A 5-10 page critical writing sample is required, and a 10-page creative writing sample if applying for that option. Two reference letters and a statement of intent are also mandatory.
- How long does the MA in English program take to complete?
- This is a full-time, thesis-based program designed to be completed over two years.
- What is the tuition and fee structure for international students?
- Information on tuition and fees for international students is available in the Graduate Calendar. It is recommended to consult the relevant sections for precise details.
- What supporting documents do I need to submit with my application?
- You will need to submit your undergraduate transcripts, a statement of intent, two letters of reference, a critical writing sample, and a creative writing sample if applicable. Proof of English language proficiency may also be required.
- When is the application deadline for the MA in English program?
- The application deadline for the September intake is December 15, with supporting documents due by January 6.
- What are the career prospects after completing this MA program?
- Graduates are prepared for careers in editing, publishing, law school, archival work, teaching, communications, technical writing, and creative industries, or for further doctoral studies.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA completed four-year undergraduate program, or equivalent, with a Major in English Literature or a closely related discipline. Minimum GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale over the final 60 units (10 full-course equivalents).
English Language ProficiencyVaries (refer to Academic Calendar)
A 5-10 page sample of critical writing is required. For creative writing applicants, an additional 10-page sample of creative writing is also necessary. Two reference letters and a statement of intent are mandatory application components.
Fees
Tuition (international)Refer to Graduate Calendar for current fees
Tuition (home)Refer to Graduate Calendar for current fees
LivingRefer to Graduate Calendar for estimated living costs
Information on fees, fee regulations, awards, and financial assistance can be found in the Graduate Calendar. Applicants are encouraged to consult the relevant sections for detailed information.
How to apply
1. Review Program RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the program structure and admission criteria via the Academic Calendar.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather your undergraduate transcripts, a statement of intent, two letters of reference, and a writing sample (critical writing, and a creative writing sample if applying for that option).
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form by the stated deadline for the September intake.
4. Submit Supporting DocumentsEnsure all required supporting documents, including transcripts and writing samples, are submitted by the document deadline.
5. English ProficiencyIf applicable, provide proof of English language proficiency according to the requirements outlined in the Academic Calendar.
6. Await Admission DecisionApplicants will be notified of the admission decision after the review process is complete.
Frequently asked questions
What are the admission requirements for the MA in English program?
+
You need a four-year undergraduate degree in English or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.3. A 5-10 page critical writing sample is required, and a 10-page creative writing sample if applying for that option. Two reference letters and a statement of intent are also mandatory.
How long does the MA in English program take to complete?
+
This is a full-time, thesis-based program designed to be completed over two years.
What is the tuition and fee structure for international students?
+
Information on tuition and fees for international students is available in the Graduate Calendar. It is recommended to consult the relevant sections for precise details.
What supporting documents do I need to submit with my application?
+
You will need to submit your undergraduate transcripts, a statement of intent, two letters of reference, a critical writing sample, and a creative writing sample if applicable. Proof of English language proficiency may also be required.
When is the application deadline for the MA in English program?
+
The application deadline for the September intake is December 15, with supporting documents due by January 6.
What are the career prospects after completing this MA program?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers in editing, publishing, law school, archival work, teaching, communications, technical writing, and creative industries, or for further doctoral studies.