The Master of Arts in English and Cultural Studies with a specialization in Social Justice Studies at Lakehead University is designed for students who wish to explore the intersections of literature, culture, and social justice. This program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, allowing students to engage critically with various texts and cultural phenomena. It aims to equip graduates with the analytical skills necessary for understanding and addressing social justice issues through the lens of English and cultural studies. The program is ideal for those looking to deepen their knowledge and pursue careers that advocate for social change.
Program structure
The Master of Arts in English and Cultural Studies program offers a flexible structure to accommodate diverse student interests and career goals. The program can be completed through various routes, including:
Thesis option: Ideal for students interested in conducting in-depth research.
Coursework option: Provides a broad coverage of fields and the opportunity to work with multiple professors.
Research-project option: Combines elements of both thesis and coursework.
Creative-project option: Allows students to produce a creative work while engaging in critical analysis.
Students must complete all program requirements within six terms (2 years) of continuous registration. The program also offers a collaborative graduate program with a specialization in Gender and Women’s Studies, enhancing the interdisciplinary experience.
Featured Experiences
The Master of Arts in English and Cultural Studies program includes several unique features that enhance the learning experience:
Creative-project option: Students can write a creative work while engaging in critical analysis.
Graduate Assistantships: Incoming Canadian students have the opportunity to work as Graduate Assistants, gaining valuable teaching experience.
Collaborative programs: The program offers a specialization in Gender and Women’s Studies, allowing for interdisciplinary study.
Personalized attention: Smaller class sizes enable closer interaction with faculty members, fostering a supportive learning environment.
Career Options
Graduates of the Master of Arts in English and Cultural Studies with a specialization in Social Justice Studies can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:
Social Justice Advocate: Work with organizations to promote social change and advocate for marginalized communities.
Policy Analyst: Analyze and develop policies that address social justice issues at local, provincial, or national levels.
Community Outreach Coordinator: Engage with communities to raise awareness and implement programs focused on social justice.
Educator: Teach English and cultural studies at various educational institutions, focusing on social justice themes.
Researcher: Conduct research on social justice topics, contributing to academic and public discourse.
DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.
Applicants for admission must be graduates of a recognized university, college, or institute as well as show evidence of scholarly achievement. Except where otherwise stated in the Admission Requirements of a particular program, degree students must have a four year bachelor's degree or its equivalent with at least second class standing (B) based on their last 20 half courses or equivalent.
For applicants from countries that follow a British-patterned grading system, please note:
Overall standings are normally reported in lieu of an average. The CGPA can be determined on the basis of annual or overall standings as reported on the transcript or degree certificate.
A minimum grade of B, or Second Class, Upper Division, is required.
The National Diploma and Higher National Diploma are not recognized for admission to a graduate-level program.
Be sure to include a copy of your institution grading scale when uploading your transcripts.
An applicant holding a degree other than one in the discipline area to which admission is sought will be considered on the basis of courses taken and academic standing.
Meeting the minimum requirements does not necessarily guarantee admission. No candidate will be admitted unless the academic unit recommends admission. All applicants will be advised by the Office of Graduate Studies in writing of their admission status.
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Program Specific Requirements
In addition to the general admission requirements for Master programs, the following requirements also apply:
Theory Requirement - As prerequisites and/or co-requisites for graduate work, candidates must have taken/be taking at least one FCE in literary and cultural theory, such as English 2913 or its equivalent. Should the candidates be lacking in this area, they must take one FCE in literary and cultural theory, normally English 2913, in addition to the other courses in order to qualify for the Master of Arts degree.
Candidates should communicate with the Graduate Coordinator of the Department of English concerning offerings for the ensuing year.
Thesis, research-project, and creative-project program candidates should also discuss possible thesis, research-project, or creative-project topics with the Graduate Coordinator of the department in order that a thesis, research-project, or creative-project supervisor may be assigned.
Graded English Essay - International applicants must provide a graded English essay from their undergraduate studies, as part of the application process.
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Language Requirements
English Language Requirements
Accepted tests and minimum scores:
Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL) or CAEL CE (Computer Edition) or CAEL Online: 60
Cambridge Academic English (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency): 176 (no individual score less than 169)
Duolingo English Test: 120 (no individual sub-score less than 115)
International English Language Testing System (IELTS): 6.5 (no individual score less than 6.0)
Michigan English Test (MET): 85
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 58 (no component score less than 50)
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), Institution Code 0888: 4.5 overall (no section below 4.0) for tests completed as of January 2026; Internet Based Test (iBT) 80 (no component score less than 19) for valid tests taken prior to January 2026
DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.
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