English


English literature explores texts ranging from fiction to film in order to gain insight into our world and our place in it. English helps you develop skills in interpretation, research, analysis, critical thinking, and persuasive writing.

Overview

English focuses on literary study, helping you develop skills in interpretation, research, analysis, critical thinking, and persuasive writing.

While the curriculum focuses on literary study, students are encouraged to develop an appreciation for the English language, which will prove invaluable not only in your studies, but in any future career or profession. 

The majority of students take at least one English course during their undergraduate studies.

At a Glance

Degree options
Bachelor of Arts (BA), major or honours
Minor

Curriculum

At Mount Allison, English literature explores texts ranging from fiction to film in order to gain insight into our world and our place in it.

First-year English courses offer you an introduction to different approaches to reading and writing about literature, using texts from a range of genres and time periods.

In second year you may choose from courses focusing on:

  • Introduction to literary periods
  • Shakespeare
  • Canadian literature
  • American literature

Third-year courses expand on your second-year choices, including studies in:

  • British literature in different periods
  • Canadian and American literature
  • Gender and literature
  • Postcolonial literature
  • Dramatic literature
  • Creative writing
  • Film, genre, and cultural studies

In fourth year you will be able to pursue selected topics courses, which allow you to pursue special interests, either through the particular courses offered that year or through individual study and research under the supervision of a faculty member.

If you choose to do an honours English degree, you will have the opportunity to write a thesis under the supervision of a faculty member.

You will also have opportunities to present and publish creative and critical work.

English is available as:

  • BA major (60 credits)
  • BA honours (66 credits)
  • Minor in any degree (24 credits)

Not sure about the difference between a major, a minor, an honours, and a certificate?

 

Intro to Poetry class

Related programs:

Careers

Whether you're entering the job market or continuing your education, your Mount Allison degree will stand out.

Mount Allison has been recognized by Maclean's as the top primarily undergraduate university in Canada more times than any other university.

With experiential learning and career development opportunities available in every degree, you'll also graduate with hands-on learning and real-world experience.

Our graduates also boast extraordinarily high acceptance rates to top graduate programs and professional schools such as law and medicine.

Popular career paths for English graduates include:

  • publisher
  • teacher
  • writer
  • creative writer in the video game industry
  • proofreader
  • editor
  • public relations specialist
  • human resources specialist
  • advertising copy writer
  • archivist
  • legal editor
  • advertising executive
  • academic researcher/teacher

Alumni Spotlight

Whitney Moran ('08)
Bachelor of Arts, honours English with a minor in Sociology
Managing editor of Nimbus Publishing and Vagrant Press

"Mount A really felt like a place where I was allowed to finally figure out who I was.”

» Whitney Moran (’08) helps bring Atlantic Canadian literature to life

Testimonials

Image
Quote icon

I have been given some excellent opportunities for hands-on learning through research projects and interdisciplinary collaboration. I would recommend the English and Religious Studies programs to students who are interested in pushing the boundaries of their learning, and who want to challenge themselves to examine the literature and culture that surrounds them.


Percy
Miller
'19
English, minor in Religious Studies
Ottawa, ON
Image
Quote icon

I am especially indebted to the small classes. I feel that through these unique learning environments, where there were sometimes less than 10 students in my class, I obtained the most invaluable learning skills and engaged in the most thought-provoking discussions. These are my most cherished experiences at MtA and they have served as my foundation for engaging with a broader academic community.


Tyler
Haché
'19
Honours English
Moncton, NB

/current-students/department-english

Bachelor of Arts

Admission Requirements

Our admissions decisions are based on your academic record, leadership skills, a high level of commitment, and the potential for personal growth. The drop down menu below will help you find information on what pre-requisites are recommended for a Bachelor of Arts.

Academic Awards

Image

Mount A is #2 in student awards


Maclean’s ranks Mount Allison second in student and faculty awards in its latest University Rankings. To date, 56 Mount Allison students have become Rhodes Scholars — one of the best per capita records in Canada.

Next Steps

Be part of Canada's best undergraduate university