Literary representations both reflect and help to create our views of the world, including our social theories and practices; thus, the study of literature can provide students with insights concerning past and present concepts of personal and social identity, cultural traditions and beliefs, and interpersonal and cross-cultural relationships. Since the time of Aristotle, moreover, literary commentators have analyzed “setting” as an important formal aspect of literary writing; literary study can therefore help us to investigate, and perhaps to reconsider, our relationships to both our human and non-human environments. In today’s world, where efforts to resolve intercultural conflicts and environmental problems have taken on a profound sense of urgency, literary study provides a crucial forum for intellectual and ethical debate leading to the revision of cultural practice.

The study of English literature provides students with critical skills of analysis and synthesis, helping them to identify and understand complex problems, and encouraging them to conceptualize viable resolutions and alternative understandings. Perhaps more than any other academic discipline, English literature also emphasizes the importance of literacy, including the development of effective writing and oral presentation skills, thereby providing students with the communications skills so highly valued in the professional world.

To submit your application online, you will need:

• Unofficial copies of transcripts for all post-secondary institutions attended (unofficial transcripts). Transcripts should be submitted in the original language they were produced in, accompanied by English translations (if required). International applicants are required to upload proof of degree as well. For more information see requirements for including transcripts with your application.
• In general, applicants to a Master’s degree program must hold a four-year baccalaureate degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution.
• Domestic applicants are normally required to have a minimum overall average of 3.00 (B) for third- and fourth-year courses.
• A statement of academic interest (programs may have specific requirements for the statement of interest, please review the program specific admission requirements below for specific program requirements).
• Name and contact information for your references (an institutional email address is required). References should be submitted no later than 2 weeks after the published deadline for your program. Please review our guide to tracking your application to monitor receipt of your references.

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (Internet Based) or Canadian Academic English Language Assessment or International English Language Testing System (academic or immigration) or Pearson Test of English (Academic)

• Letter(s) of Reference
• Statement of Research Interests

Applicants to the UNBC English MA program must follow the admission requirements outlined in General Admission of the Graduate Academic Calendar. Entrance to the MA is competitive; only applicants with a record of excellence are admitted. Therefore, applicants must provide the following information with their applications:

• a senior-level undergraduate research paper as a writing sample;
• undergraduate transcripts;
• strong letters of academic recommendations;
• strong letter of intent;
• evidence of interest in the MA's areas of research specialization (Literature, Culture, Place);
• the name of the faculty member who is willing to supervise their thesis work or major research paper (if possible).