Athabasca University

What you'll study

The program requires a total of 120 credits with specific seniors and major-credit minima. The English major requires 45 credits designated as major courses, including at least 36 senior-level (300/400) credits with a minimum of 12 credits at the 400 level. Students must take junior-level composition and genre courses and senior-level theory and Indigenous literature options. Specific elements include:

• 3 junior (200) level English credits in composition (for example ENGL 255; students are strongly encouraged to take ENGL 255 early).
• 6 junior (200) level English credits in literary genres (for example ENGL 211 and ENGL 212).
• 3 senior (300/400) level English credits in literary theory (for example ENGL 316 or ENGL 423).
• 3 senior (300/400) level English credits in Indigenous literature (for example ENGL 308).
• 30 additional senior-level ENGL credits chosen as electives to reach the 45-credit major total.
• Program-wide requirements: a minimum of 75 senior-level credits (including 18 credits at the 400 level), 96 arts credits (minimums within humanities and social sciences), 6 science credits, and a residency requirement of at least 30 AU credits.

Entry requirements

Students must complete the BA (4-year) program regulations in effect at enrolment and select a major upon entry. The English writing skills requirement is met by holding credit in ENGL 255, or having a grade of B- (70%) or better in an AU English course above the preparatory (100) level, or receiving credit for an English course with a B- or better. The writing requirement is waived for students enrolling in a second undergraduate degree. Students transferring from the BA (3-year) to the BA (4-year) must submit a new Undergraduate General Application Form for reassessment.

Career prospects

The program learning outcomes indicate graduates gain skills useful across diverse occupations: critical thinking, interpretation, research and communication. The degree supports occupational diversity and community engagement and positions students for most graduate programs or careers that value strong analytical and writing abilities.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Students should consult Athabasca University’s central financial aid and awards pages for scholarship and funding opportunities. As with most arts degrees, options include institutional awards, needs-based aid and external scholarships targeted to humanities students; eligibility and application processes vary by award.