Program Overview
Acadia University's Master of Arts in English program offers a comprehensive exploration of literary studies, fostering critical thinking, research skills, and expertise in specific literary areas. The program emphasizes close faculty-student collaboration, personalized guidance, and a wide range of elective courses, preparing graduates for doctoral studies and careers in academia and beyond.
Program Outline
Acadia University Master of Arts in English Program Extraction
Degree Overview:
The Master of Arts (MA) in English program at Acadia University delves into the power, place, and purpose of literary expression throughout cultural history. It provides a sophisticated understanding of literature, preparing graduates for potential doctoral studies and academic careers. The program fosters a close-knit community where students receive unmatched levels of engagement, mentorship, and support from professors and peers.
Objectives:
- Develop a deeper understanding of literary studies.
- Enhance critical thinking and research skills.
- Master a specific area within literary studies.
- Prepare for potential doctoral studies.
- Equip students for a range of careers in academia and beyond.
Program Description:
The program is designed to cultivate academic excellence and expertise in literary studies. It offers a dynamic curriculum that focuses on diverse areas of literary exploration, including:
- American literature
- Arthurian literature
- Atlantic-Canadian literature
- Canadian children's literature
- Canadian literature
- Children's literature
- Contemporary British fiction and poetry
- Digital humanities
- Fairy tales
- Fantasy
- Gender, sexuality, and queer studies
- Historical fiction
- Medieval studies
- Modern poetry
- New media studies
- Picture books
- Post-colonial literature
- Renaissance studies
- Shakespeare studies
- The early novel
- The eighteenth century
- The Gothic
- The Romantics
- Victorian and nineteenth-century literature
- Young adult literature
Other:
- The program welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and educational experiences.
- Applicants are encouraged to have a strong foundation in English literature and critical analysis.
- The program prioritizes close collaboration between faculty and students.
- The intimate program size allows for personalized attention and guidance.
Outline:
Year One:
- Fall Term:
- ENGL 5960 Thesis
- ENGL 5060 Scholarly Methods
- Two elective courses
- Winter Term:
- ENGL 5960 Thesis
- ENGL 5543 Scholarly Methods
- Two elective courses
- Spring Term:
- ENGL 5960 Thesis Completion
Year Two:
- Students may choose to extend their studies into a second year to complete additional coursework or conduct further research.
Electives:
- Students can select from a wide range of courses offered by the English department, allowing them to tailor their studies to their specific interests.
Thesis:
- The thesis is a central component of the program, requiring students to conduct independent research and produce a significant piece of scholarly writing under the guidance of a faculty supervisor.
Assessment:
- Assessment methods vary depending on the specific courses and electives chosen.
- Common assessment methods include essays, research papers, presentations, exams, and active participation in class discussions.
- The thesis is assessed by a committee of faculty members and requires a successful oral defense.
Teaching:
- The program boasts a dedicated faculty of active researchers and writers with expertise in diverse areas of literary studies.
- Professors employ a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and individual consultations.
- The program emphasizes active learning and encourages students to engage critically with course material.
Careers:
- Graduates of the program are well-prepared for a range of careers in academia, including teaching, research, and administration.
- The program also equip students with valuable skills and knowledge applicable to various fields, such as journalism, publishing, public relations, and education.
Other:
- The program provides strong preparation for students who wish to pursue doctoral studies in English or related fields.
Overview:
Acadia University is a renowned Canadian university established in 1838. It is consistently ranked as the top primarily undergraduate university in Nova Scotia and among the best in Canada. Acadia offers a unique experience compared to larger universities, with smaller class sizes, more interaction with professors, and opportunities for undergraduate research or co-op work terms.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
Acadia provides a welcoming and supportive environment for students. The smaller size fosters a tight-knit community, allowing students to create a sense of home away from home. The campus is walkable, with most students living in residence or within a mile of campus. Acadia offers a range of student life supports, including academic advising, accessible learning services, tutoring, career and experiential learning, health and wellness services, housing and dining options, and campus life activities.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Small class sizes and personalized attention:
Acadia's smaller size allows for more individual attention from professors and a more intimate learning environment.Opportunities for undergraduate research and co-op work terms:
Acadia provides students with opportunities to engage in research and gain practical experience through co-op programs.Welcoming and supportive community:
The tight-knit community at Acadia fosters a sense of belonging and provides students with a strong support system.Beautiful campus and town setting:
Acadia's campus is located in the charming town of Wolfville, offering a picturesque and walkable environment.Academic Programs:
Acadia offers over 200 combinations of degree programs across the faculties of Arts, Professional Studies, Pure and Applied Sciences, and Theology. Many programs include Honours or Co-op Education options.
Other:
Acadia University is located in Mi'kma'ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaw nation.
