Program Overview

Degree offered: M.A.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in English delivers training in the theory, methods, and practice of literary studies in English. The program emphasizes a theme of place, though students may also pursue an individualized path of study. All M.A. students are required to complete two core courses - ENGL_O 501 and 503 - addressing a range of disciplinary and interdisciplinary approaches to English and the skills necessary to conduct textual research and other aspects of the profession. Additional training in the study of literature and culture is available in any given year via graduate English courses (520 series and 530 series) offered at the discretion of the English program.

Coursework Option

The coursework student completes 21 credits of coursework and an independent research paper of publishable quality (9 credits).

Thesis Option

While a thesis-based M.A. is available, completion within one calendar year will require a highly-motivated student. Thesis students are required to take 18 credits of coursework and complete a master's thesis (12 credits).


UBC Crest The official logo of the University of British Columbia. Urgent Message An exclamation mark in a speech bubble. Caret An arrowhead indicating direction. Arrow An arrow indicating direction. Arrow in Circle An arrow indicating direction. Arrow in Circle An arrow indicating direction. Chats Two speech clouds. Facebook The logo for the Facebook social media service. Information The letter 'i' in a circle. Instagram The logo for the Instagram social media service. Linkedin The logo for the LinkedIn social media service. Location Pin A map location pin. Mail An envelope. Menu Three horizontal lines indicating a menu. Minus A minus sign. Pencil A pencil indicating that this is editable. Telephone An antique telephone. Plus A plus symbol indicating more or the ability to add. Search A magnifying glass. Twitter The logo for the Twitter social media service. Youtube The logo for the YouTube video sharing service.