English
This master of arts (MA) program develops scholars with a critical and comprehensive awareness of English studies. While offering specialization in one of various areas of strength in the department, the program requires a breadth requirement through course work and thereby grounds students’ interests in a wide and flexible understanding of English studies. Students without a strong English background may be required to strengthen their preparation before admission. As well, all MA students complete ENGL 880 and 881, the graduate professional development seminars.
The program may be completed in one of two ways as shown below.
Option A
This option consists of eight courses including ENGL 880, 881, a pre-twentieth century literature course, and one other pre-nineteenth century literature course. In addition, students undertake an MA final research paper.
Option B
This option consists of six courses including ENGL 880, 881, and a pre-twentieth century literature course. In addition, students write a thesis of about 100 pages and defend it in an oral examination.
Full-time students typically enrol in two regular courses per term in addition to one of the required professional development seminars. The MA program is completed in three terms. For further departmental requirements, consult the departmental handbook.
The department recognizes the special needs of working people who wish to improve their qualifications. Some graduate courses are regularly offered in the evening.
Examinations
While the general regulations set the minimum CGPA necessary for continuance at 3.0, the department regards grades below B to be unsatisfactory and expects students to achieve above the minimum. If progress is unsatisfactory, withdrawal under “1.8.2 Review of Unsatisfactory Progress” of the may be required.
Option A students (including MATE students) choose a paper or project from one of their six courses. The paper or project, which is revised and expanded for publication, is examined by two faculty who, together, assign a grade of pass with distinction/pass/fail. The paper or project is completed and submitted for evaluation no later than the end of the term following course work completion. A student who fails may be permitted a second and final attempt.
For further information, see 1.1 Degrees Offered in the .
Option B students complete four courses, two professional development seminars, write a thesis of about 100 pages and defend it in an oral examination.
Thesis option students submit a thesis proposal and are examined by the supervisory committee no later than one term following course work completion. Students proceed with the thesis only after approval of the supervisory committee and the graduate program committee.
Specialization in Print Culture 1700-1900
The MA program also permits interdisciplinary specialization in the politics of print culture (1700-1900), focusing on the changing role of printed texts in an emerging commercial society.
Academic Requirements within the Graduate General Regulations
All graduate students must satisfy the academic requirements that are specified in the , as well as the specific requirements for the program in which they are enrolled, as listed above.