MA in Literature in English
The MA in English at the University of Calgary offers the opportunity to complete a range of graduate courses. You may undertake an independent research project in either the one year course-based MA or the two year thesis-based MA.
Course-based versus Thesis-based
The course-based MA degree is an intensive program designed to be completed in a year and specifically for students interested in moving into PhD studies relatively quickly. The thesis-MA degree takes two years, has a slightly slower pace, and can often be the “terminal degree”. Students holding a course-based and thesis-based MA are equally admissible to the PhD degree.
Master of Arts (MA), thesis-based
Thesis-based programs require that you pursue independent and original research culminating in a thesis. You will work under the supervision of a faculty member whose expertise matches your research area.
Master of Arts (MA), course-based
In a course-based program, all degree requirements are fulfilled by completing courses. These may include courses that involve a project, such as a major research paper or group project.
Admission requirements
You must meet the minimum entrance requirements set by the Faculty of Graduate Studies. Graduate programs in English also have the following requirements:
MA degree admission requirements
- A completed four-year undergraduate program, or equivalent, with a Major in English Literature or in a closely related discipline.
- A minimum admission grade point average of 3.5 on a 4 point scale over the final 60 units (10 full-course equivalents).
- A Statement of Intent.
- A 5-10 page sample of critical writing.
- For creative writing applicants, an additional 10-page sample of creative writing.
- For applicants required to provide proof of proficiency in English, a minimum TOEFL score of 97 (Internet-based test); an IELTS score of 7.0 (with no band less than 6.5); a CAEL score of 70 (with no section less than 65); PTE score of 68. This requirement can also be met by completing the Academic Communication Certificate with a grade of 'A-' in two courses and 'B+' in all other courses.
- Two reference letters.
- a curriculum vitae.
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Graduate program contacts
Contact us for any questions you may have about the programs we offer in the Department of English.