Master of Arts in English (Course-Based) at UNBC - University Of Northern British Columbia - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-08-20

Program overview

The Master of Arts in English at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) is designed to deepen students' understanding of literature and its impact on personal and social identity, cultural traditions, and interpersonal relationships. This program emphasizes critical analysis and synthesis, equipping students with essential communication skills that are highly valued in the professional world. Students can choose between a course-based option or a thesis-based option, allowing for flexibility in their academic journey. The program fosters a collaborative environment where students engage in intellectual dialogue with peers and faculty, enhancing their learning experience.

Program structure

The Master of Arts in English program offers both full-time and part-time study options. The program structure includes:

Program Length: Typically spans two years.
Course-Based MA: Requires completion of six graduate courses and a major research paper or creative project.
Thesis-Based MA: Involves five graduate courses and a thesis.
Students are assigned a supervisor to guide their academic progress.
Most coursework is completed in the first year, with the second year focused on thesis or major research paper completion.

Additionally, students have the option to pursue a creative writing thesis, subject to departmental approval, which allows for a creative project in lieu of a traditional thesis.

Featured Experiences

Engagement in close intellectual dialogue and debate with fellow graduate students and professors.
Opportunities for a creative writing thesis for select students, allowing for a unique approach to their research.
Seminar-style courses that promote a dynamic graduate student culture.
Individual supervision from faculty members to ensure personalized academic support.

Career Options

Literary Critic: Analyzes and interprets literary works, providing insights and critiques that contribute to the understanding of literature.
Editor: Works with authors to refine and polish manuscripts, ensuring clarity and coherence in written content.
Content Writer: Creates engaging written content for various platforms, utilizing strong writing skills to communicate effectively.
Academic Researcher: Conducts research in literature and related fields, contributing to scholarly publications and academic discourse.
Teacher or Lecturer: Educates students in literature and writing, fostering critical thinking and communication skills in the classroom.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit UNBC - University Of Northern British Columbia official website

Last updated on 2025-08-20

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Master of Arts in English (Course-Based) program, the following academic requirements apply:

Minimum GPA: Not specified.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

International students, including those from Vietnam and other Asian countries, should be aware of the following:

Senior Secondary School Graduation Diploma (Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Phổ Thông Trung Học) is required.
A minimum average grade of 5 or higher in English 12, three academic subjects, and an elective is necessary.
Transfer applicants must have a minimum of 15 credit hours of acceptable university-level coursework from a recognized post-secondary institution.
It is recommended to provide grades from the final two years of upper secondary school for prerequisite purposes.
Official documents must be provided prior to the start of the semester.

For any clarification and support regarding the application process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

English is the primary language of instruction and communication at UNBC. Consequently, it is expected that an applicant be able to demonstrate an acceptable level of proficiency in the use of English in order to receive and participate in classroom instruction and discussion as well as to complete written assignments. Applicants whose first language is not English, regardless of citizenship or country of origin, must submit evidence of English language proficiency prior to admission.

Acceptable evidence of English language proficiency may be any one of the following tests (or its online equivalence, as determined by the Office of the Registrar):

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of 90 or higher in the internet-based test, with not less than 20 in each of the Reading, Listening, Writing or Speaking components; score of at least 230 in the computer-based test or at least 570 in the paper-based test.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Academic score of at least 6.5 overall, with not less than 6.0 in any of the four modules.
Duolingo English Test score of 105 or higher.
A final grade of 2.00 (C) or better in the UNBC English Language Studies 50 and English Language Studies 170.
A final grade of 2.00 (C) or better in an articulated BCCAT EAP (BC Council on Admissions and Transfer English for Academic Purposes) 4 program.
A final grade of 50% or better in English Studies 12 from the British Columbia high school system.
A final grade of 75% (B) or better in a University-transferable English course.
A final grade of 75% or better in CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) / CISCE (Council for The Indian School Certificate Examinations) Class XII English Core.
Completion of two full years of full time degree level studies or equivalent at a recognized institution where English is the language of instruction.
A final grade of 2 or better in AP (Advanced Placement) English Literature and Composition or AP Literature and Composition.
A final grade of 3 or better in IB (International Baccalaureate) English A1 or A2 (higher or subsidiary level).
MELAB (Michigan English Language Assessment Battery) score of at least 80, with a minimum of 3 on the Speaking Rating Scale.
CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language) or the CAEL CE (Computer Edition) Assessment score of at least 70, with no subtest below 60.
A grade of B or better on Cambridge English Qualification C1 Advanced.
PTE (Pearson Test of English - Academic): overall score of 65, with not less than 60 in each of reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

Please check with our team for more details.

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.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!