UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY · CANADA
Master of Arts in Languages, Literatures and Cultures (MA)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Three distinct streams: Applied Linguistics, Literature/Film Studies, Transcultural StudiesProgram Streams
- Only Transcultural Studies stream of its kind in CanadaUnique Program Offering
- Thesis-based MA with oral defenseResearch Focus
- Develops advanced research, communication, and language skillsSkill Development
- Prepares for PhD studiesAcademic Pathway
- Opportunities to study cultures of French, Arabic, Chinese, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, and Spanish speaking regionsCultural Focus
This thesis-based Master of Arts program offers three distinct streams: applied linguistics, literature and/or film studies, and transcultural studies. Across all streams, you will benefit from close interaction with professors who are experts in their fields and employ diverse theoretical approaches. The applied linguistics stream delves into language acquisition, learning, teaching, and sociolinguistics, with opportunities for experimental studies. Focal languages include French, Chinese, German, and Spanish. The literature and film studies stream allows in-depth exploration of literary and cinematic works in French, German, and Spanish, equipping you with theoretical and critical expertise. The transcultural studies stream, unique in Canada, examines the complexities and internal differentiations of cultures where French, Arabic, Chinese, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, and Spanish are spoken, fostering high cultural literacy. All streams aim to enhance your research and communication skills, specialized knowledge, and language proficiency. Note: This program is not suitable for research focused primarily on English language or ESL. For such interests, please consider programs in Educational Research.
Curriculum
The program requires the completion of six courses, including core courses and a research methods course, culminating in a thesis that must be successfully defended.
- Year 1
- Additional Language Pedagogy
- Research Methods (Applied Linguistics or Literary and Cultural Studies)
- Elective Courses
- Year 2
- Thesis Research and Writing
- Thesis Defense
Careers
Graduates are prepared for a variety of professional roles in sectors such as education, cultural organizations, government services, public relations, publishing, tourism, and media. This Master's degree also serves as a prerequisite for pursuing a PhD.
- Post-secondary sector
- Cultural organizations
- Education
- Finance
- Government services
- Immigration
- Public relations
- Publishing
- Tourism and travel
- Advertising
- Communications and media
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the MA in Languages, Literatures and Cultures?
- Applicants need a four-year baccalaureate degree in a relevant field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 over the last two years of study. You must also demonstrate a high level of oral and written competence in a target language such as French, Arabic, Chinese, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, or Spanish (CEFR B2 or equivalent).
- What documents are required for the application?
- You will need to submit academic transcripts, an academic writing sample (8-15 pages), a statement of intent (minimum 250 words), and two reference letters.
- What is the application deadline for the MA in Languages, Literatures and Cultures?
- The application deadline for the September intake is January 15.
- What are the tuition fees and living costs?
- Specific tuition rates for international students and estimated living costs are available in the University of Calgary's Graduate Calendar.
- What are the career prospects after completing this MA program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles in education, cultural organizations, government services, public relations, publishing, tourism, and media. The degree also serves as a prerequisite for PhD studies.
- What are the different streams available in this program?
- The program offers three streams: Applied Linguistics, Literature and/or Film Studies, and Transcultural Studies, which is unique in Canada.
Entry requirements
Four-year baccalaureate degree or equivalentFrom a recognized institution with an adequate academic background in modern languages, linguistics, literary, film, or cultural studies, or a closely related field.
GPAMinimum of 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 point system over the last two years of full-time study (minimum 10 full-course equivalents or 60 units).
Target Language ProficiencySufficiently high level of oral and written competence in the target language (recommended minimum CEFR B2, ACTFL Intermediate-High, or equivalent). Target languages include French, Arabic, Chinese, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, and Spanish.
Applicants must also submit an academic writing sample (8-15 pages) and a statement of intent (minimum 250 words) outlining research interests and reasons for pursuing graduate work. Two reference letters are required. International applicants with non-Canadian credentials should review specific international requirements. English language proficiency requirements for non-native English speakers are detailed in the Academic Calendar's 'Admissions' tab.
Fees
Tuition (international)Refer to the Graduate Calendar for current tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Refer to the Graduate Calendar for current tuition fees.
LivingEstimated living costs are available through the Graduate Calendar.
Specific fee information, including tuition rates for domestic and international students, and estimated living costs, can be found in the University of Calgary's Graduate Calendar. Information on awards and financial assistance is also available.
How to apply
1. Review Program RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the program structure, specializations, and degree requirements. Visit the departmental webpage and the Academic Calendar for detailed information.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, including transcripts, an academic writing sample (8-15 pages), a statement of intent (min. 250 words), and arrange for two reference letters.
3. Check English Language ProficiencyIf English is not your primary language, ensure you meet the English language proficiency requirements as outlined in the Academic Calendar. Contact the program if you have questions.
4. Submit Application OnlineComplete and submit the online application form before the deadline. Ensure all supporting materials are submitted by the stated deadline.
5. Await Admission DecisionAdmissions decisions are typically communicated after the application period closes.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the MA in Languages, Literatures and Cultures?
+
Applicants need a four-year baccalaureate degree in a relevant field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 over the last two years of study. You must also demonstrate a high level of oral and written competence in a target language such as French, Arabic, Chinese, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, or Spanish (CEFR B2 or equivalent).
What documents are required for the application?
+
You will need to submit academic transcripts, an academic writing sample (8-15 pages), a statement of intent (minimum 250 words), and two reference letters.
What is the application deadline for the MA in Languages, Literatures and Cultures?
+
The application deadline for the September intake is January 15.
What are the tuition fees and living costs?
+
Specific tuition rates for international students and estimated living costs are available in the University of Calgary's Graduate Calendar.
What are the career prospects after completing this MA program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles in education, cultural organizations, government services, public relations, publishing, tourism, and media. The degree also serves as a prerequisite for PhD studies.
What are the different streams available in this program?
+
The program offers three streams: Applied Linguistics, Literature and/or Film Studies, and Transcultural Studies, which is unique in Canada.