Program Overview
This innovative Canadian program offers a comprehensive understanding of cultural studies, fostering collaboration and interdisciplinary research. Graduates are equipped for careers in academia, teaching and research, or pursuing new forms of cultural inquiry and artistic innovation. The program's strength lies in its faculty collaboration, access to Peterborough's arts community, and diverse dissertation topics, including Memory Studies, Tourism Studies, and Media Studies.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This program, the first of its kind in Canada, offers an innovative approach to the study of culture and provides a comprehensive understanding of the intellectual traditions in cultural studies. It fosters a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment where students can engage in groundbreaking research in their chosen field. The program's flexibility allows students to work with colleagues and faculty members in a way that best suits their studies. Upon graduation, students are equipped to contribute to fields of inquiry pivotal to the development of thinking and culture in the 21st century, through teaching and original research. Trent graduates have gone on to become teachers and researchers at universities and colleges in Canada and abroad, as well as to develop new forms of cultural inquiry and artistic innovation in various settings.
Teaching:
The program involves close collaboration with highly-regarded faculty members on original research. The program benefits from Peterborough’s vibrant arts and culture community, providing a stimulating environment for the study and development of culture.
Careers:
Upon graduation, students are prepared for careers as teachers and researchers at universities and colleges in Canada and abroad. They also have the potential to develop new forms of cultural inquiry and artistic innovation.
Other:
Past dissertations have engaged a wide variety of fields, such as Memory Studies, Tourism Studies, Cinema Studies, Science Fiction, Media Studies and Research Creation.
Trent University
Overview:
Trent University is a public university located in Peterborough and Durham, Ontario, Canada. It is recognized as Ontario's top undergraduate university, known for its personalized learning experience and commitment to fostering global citizens. Trent University offers a transformative learning environment that prepares students for leadership and career success.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
Trent University offers a vibrant campus life with a strong sense of community. Students have access to a wide range of opportunities to get involved, gain career experience, and make lifelong connections. The university boasts picturesque natural environments at both its Peterborough and Durham campuses, providing a unique and engaging learning experience.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-ranked undergraduate university in Ontario:
Trent University consistently ranks highly for its overall reputation and academic excellence.High graduate employment rate:
95% of Trent graduates are employed within two years of graduation.Personalized learning experience:
The university emphasizes small class sizes and close faculty-student relationships, fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment.Strong focus on global citizenship:
Trent University prepares students to be responsible and engaged citizens of the world, equipped to address global challenges.Academic Programs:
Trent University offers over 100 academic programs across various disciplines. The university is particularly known for its strengths in the following areas:
Environmental Studies:
Trent University is a leader in environmental research and education, with a strong focus on sustainability and conservation.Social Sciences and Humanities:
The university offers a wide range of programs in areas such as history, political science, psychology, and sociology.Arts and Culture:
Trent University has a strong arts and culture scene, with a vibrant theatre program, music ensembles, and visual arts studios.Other:
Trent University also offers online learning options, allowing students to access over 100 courses year-round. The university is committed to inclusivity and diversity, with initiatives such as the installation of an ablution station for the Muslim community on campus.
Entry Requirements:
- **M.A.
- in Cultural Studies or related discipline with at least A- (80%) overall
- Aptitude for theoretical inquiry and excellent writing skills
- Original and innovative dissertation proposal
Required Documents:
- Transcripts: Post-secondary transcripts and graduation certificates (where applicable) of all previous undergraduate and graduate work are required.
- Two Letters of Reference: Academic references are preferred, but professional references are also accepted.
- Proof of English Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English usage, both written and oral, is essential. Applicants who completed two or more years of post-secondary education at a university in Canada, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and the USA are exempt. If you have completed two or more years of post-secondary education at a university where the primary language of instruction is English, the School of Graduate Studies is prepared to consider alternate proof of English language proficiency.
- Plan of Study: Typically 1-2 pages, outlining the applicant's objectives in a graduate program. Any specific research interests (if known), relevant experiences, and/or career aspirations can be included.
- A Writing Sample: Submit a sample of your writing of about 20 pages or less. Writing samples preferred format is PDF. Hard copies will not be accepted. Good choices for writing samples include: an undergraduate essay, lab report, research report, journal article, a chapter from a masters thesis, or a published article.
Additional information:
- Proof of Citizenship (ie. copy of passport or birth certificate) will be requested, only if an offer of admission is made.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- Proficiency in English usage, both written and oral, is essential.
- Applicants who completed two or more years of post-secondary education at a university in Canada, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and the USA are exempt from this requirement.
- If you have completed two or more years of post-secondary education at a university where the primary language of instruction is English, the School of Graduate Studies is prepared to consider alternate proof of English language proficiency.
