University of Ottawa

Overview

The Master of Science in English Literature at the University of Ottawa provides an in-depth exploration of literary traditions within British, Canadian, and American literature. Students can select between a thesis-focused or coursework-based pathway, allowing them to tailor their academic experience while enhancing their research, critical analysis, and academic writing skills.

What you'll study

Choose your pathway

• Thesis option: Engage in a research-intensive program culminating in a thesis developed under faculty supervision.
• Coursework option: Complete a series of graduate-level courses with a focus on research-oriented assignments.

Core academic components

• Graduate Study in English (seminar-based discussions and advanced literary analysis)
• Critical Research Methods (techniques for planning and executing literary research)
• Directed Readings (independent study guided by faculty)
• Professional Development (prepares students for academic and career opportunities)

Period and literature courses (examples)

• Old English
• Middle English Literature
• Renaissance Literature
• Shakespeare
• Eighteenth-Century Literature
• Romantic Literature

Research output

• Thesis track: Involves submission and defense of a thesis, subject to departmental guidelines.
• Coursework track: Requires completion of graduate-level research projects, such as research papers, as mandated by the program.

Entry requirements

Admission to the program is based on the strength of your academic background and application materials. No GRE or GMAT scores are required.

Career prospects

Graduates of the English Literature M.Sc. program can pursue a variety of career paths, including roles in education, publishing, writing, and cultural institutions. The skills acquired during the program prepare students for advanced studies or professional opportunities in diverse fields that value strong analytical and communication abilities.