University of Saskatchewan

What you'll study

The MA in English combines specialised coursework with supervised research to develop advanced skills in close reading, critical analysis and scholarly writing. Students typically take seminars in topics such as literary theory and criticism, modern and contemporary literature, Canadian and Indigenous literatures, medieval and renaissance studies, and genre-focused courses in poetry, fiction and drama. Research and methods courses cover bibliographic practice, archival research, cultural and historical contexts, and approaches to interdisciplinary enquiry, including digital humanities and rhetoric/composition studies.

Program streams commonly include a thesis route and a major research paper or course-based option (availability depends on department regulations). The thesis route emphasises sustained original research under the guidance of a supervisor, while the paper or coursework route foregrounds advanced seminars and a substantial capstone project. Students also undertake a research proposal and literature review, and have opportunities to present work at departmental colloquia and regional conferences.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a four-year honours bachelor’s degree or equivalent in English or a closely related discipline, with a strong academic record. Typical supporting materials include a statement of intent outlining research interests, an academic writing sample, a current curriculum vitae, and letters of academic reference. Applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency through an approved test or equivalent evidence; departmental faculty may also expect prior coursework in literary studies and evidence of readiness for graduate-level research.

Career prospects

Graduates from the MA in English pursue a range of careers in both academic and non-academic fields. Common pathways include continuing to doctoral study and careers in teaching and research, or moving into publishing, editing, journalism, communications, public relations and content development. Transferable skills gained—advanced research, critical thinking, writing, and project management—are also valued in government, cultural institutions, libraries and archives, non-profit organisations, and private-sector roles that require sophisticated analysis and clear written communication.

Why study at University of Saskatchewan

The Department of English at the University of Saskatchewan offers a supportive graduate environment with faculty strengths across Canadian literature, Indigenous studies, literary theory, and rhetoric and composition. Students benefit from close supervisory relationships, opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across humanities centres on campus, and access to the university’s special collections and archives for primary research. Located in Saskatoon, the university provides connections with regional cultural organisations and a community that values research on prairie and Indigenous literatures. The department also supports graduate student professional development through teaching opportunities, colloquia, and conference funding options.