English (MA Program)

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in English at UNBC offers advanced study in English literature, culture, and place. Students can choose between a course-based or thesis-based option, developing critical analysis, writing, and research skills. The program explores the relationship between literature and the world, fostering intellectual debate and ethical considerations. Graduates are prepared for careers in teaching, writing, research, and various fields in the arts, non-profit, and government sectors.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Master of Arts in English program at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) offers students the opportunity to pursue advanced study in English literature, culture, and place. Students can choose between a course-based MA option or a coursework and graduate thesis option.

Objectives:

The objectives of the program are to provide students with:

• Critical skills of analysis and synthesis
• An understanding of complex problems
• The ability to conceptualize viable resolutions and alternative understandings
• Effective writing and oral presentation skills
• Knowledge of literary representations of the world, including social theories and practices, cultural traditions and beliefs, and interpersonal and cross-cultural relationships
• An investigation of the relationship to both human and non-human environments
• A forum for intellectual and ethical debate leading to the revision of cultural practice

Structure:

The program is typically completed in two years. Full-time students typically take two courses per semester in the first year and devote the second year to the production of their thesis or major research paper. Part-time students can spread the coursework over a longer period.

Course Schedule:

The core courses for the program are:

• ENGL 690-3: Bibliography
• ENGL 700-3: Studies in Literature, Culture, and Place
• ENGL 770-12: Major Research Paper/Creative Project (for course-based MA students only)
• ENGL 799-15: English MA Thesis (for thesis-based MA students only)
Students can also choose from a variety of elective courses at the 600 level.

Individual Modules:

• Bibliography (ENGL 690-3): This course introduces students to the principles of scholarly research and writing.
Students will learn how to find, evaluate, and use sources in their research.
• Studies in Literature, Culture, and Place (ENGL 700-3): This course examines the relationship between literature, culture, and place.
Students will study how literature reflects and shapes our understanding of the world around us.
• Major Research Paper/Creative Project (ENGL 770-12): This course allows students to conduct a major research project or creative project.
Students will work closely with a faculty supervisor to develop and complete their project.
• English MA Thesis (ENGL 799-15): This course is required for students who are pursuing the thesis-based MA.
Students will write a 100-page thesis on a topic of their choice.

Assessment:

Students in the English MA program are assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Coursework assignments
• Quizzes
• Exams
• Presentations
• Research papers
• Theses
The specific assessment methods used in each course will vary depending on the instructor.

Teaching:

The English MA program is taught by a team of experienced and dedicated faculty members. The faculty are actively engaged in research and scholarship, and they bring their expertise into the classroom. The program is designed to provide students with a supportive and collaborative learning environment.

Careers:

Graduates of the English MA program are prepared for a variety of careers, including:

• Teaching
• Writing
• Editing
• Publishing
• Research
• Arts administration
• Non-profit work
• Government work