English

By selecting a Major in English, you will have an opportunity to study with outstanding teachers and scholars in a wide variety of fields. You can select the following options: a Major in Literature, in which you will study significant works of literature in the English language to gain knowledge about the social, cultural, and intellectual contexts in which these works are/were produced; or a Major in Language, in which you will study a number of language areas including the history and structure of the English language, grammars, dialectology, discourse analysis, semantics, cognitive linguistics, the history and theory of rhetoric, composition, and composition theory.

Field of study: English Language and Literature, General

The Bachelor of Arts in English at The University of British Columbia offers students an extensive exploration of the English language, literature, and cultural studies. This program is designed to cultivate critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep appreciation for the richness and diversity of English literary traditions from the medieval period to contemporary works. Students will engage with a wide range of texts, including novels, poetry, drama, and essays, gaining insight into historical, cultural, and philosophical contexts that have shaped English literature over the centuries.

Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to analyze language use, literary techniques, and narrative structures, developing their ability to interpret complex texts and articulate their ideas effectively. The curriculum includes core courses that cover major literary periods and genres, as well as electives that allow students to tailor their studies according to personal interests, such as Canadian literature, postcolonial studies, gender studies, or Creative Writing. In addition to literary analysis, the program emphasizes skills in research methodology, academic writing, and critical discussion, preparing graduates for diverse careers in education, publishing, media, arts, and cultural industries.

Students are encouraged to participate in internships, research projects, and study abroad programs to broaden their understanding of global literary traditions and contemporary issues. The program also includes opportunities for community engagement and collaborative projects, fostering a vibrant learning environment. Faculty members are active researchers and authors, providing students with mentorship and current perspectives on literary developments. With a combination of rigorous coursework, creative exploration, and professional development, the Bachelor of Arts in English at UBC supports students in becoming thoughtful, eloquent, and culturally aware individuals ready to contribute meaningfully to society.

Program Requirements

To enroll in the Bachelor of Arts in English at The University of British Columbia Vancouver, applicants must meet specific admission criteria. Prospective students are required to have completed a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong academic record. Specific prerequisites typically include English Language Arts or Literature courses, demonstrating proficiency in written and oral communication skills. Applicants are encouraged to submit standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT, though these are not always mandatory, depending on the applicant's educational background.

Once admitted, students must fulfill the degree requirements as outlined by the Faculty of Arts. The undergraduate program in English generally requires the completion of 120 credits over the course of four years. Students choose from a variety of courses covering diverse literary periods, genres, and thematic studies, including but not limited to British, American, and Postcolonial literature, literary theory, and creative writing. A minimum of 45 upper-level credits is typically required to demonstrate advanced engagement with the discipline.

Elective courses outside the core requirements allow students to explore interdisciplinary interests or deepen their specialization within English studies. Students are also encouraged to participate in co-curricular activities such as writing workshops, literary festivals, and internship programs to enhance practical skills. Language proficiency in English is essential, and non-native speakers must demonstrate proficiency through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS, meeting the minimum score requirements set by the university.

Throughout the program, students must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA (usually around 2.00 on a 4.00 scale) for satisfactory academic progress. Additionally, they are expected to complete a capstone project or thesis in their final year, integrating their learning and research skills. The program promotes critical thinking, analytical writing, and research competency, equipping graduates for careers in education, publishing, journalism, and other fields requiring strong communication skills.

In summary, the program entails completing required coursework, maintaining academic performance, and engaging in practical and research activities, all designed to cultivate comprehensive expertise in the field of English studies.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of British Columbia offers a range of financial support options for students enrolled in its degree programmes. Students can access various scholarships, bursaries, and awards based on academic achievement, financial need, or specific criteria related to their country of origin, field of study, or leadership qualities. Entrance scholarships are available for high-achieving incoming students and are often renewable for successive years, contingent upon maintaining specified academic standards. Additionally, the university provides need-based financial aid programs to assist students who demonstrate significant financial hardship, which may include grants, work-study opportunities, and loan options. International students have access to some financial support, though the availability and amount may differ from those offered to domestic students. The university's financial services office offers comprehensive guidance on applying for financial aid and provides resources to help students plan their finances throughout their studies. Furthermore, students are encouraged to explore external funding sources such as government grants, private scholarships, and industry sponsorships, which can supplement university-provided financial aid. For graduate programmes, there are specific funding packages including research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and departmental scholarships that support students during their studies. It is recommended that prospective and current students regularly review the financial aid deadlines and application procedures posted on UBC’s official financial aid webpage to ensure timely submissions. Overall, UBC is committed to making education accessible through a combination of institutional financial aid and external funding opportunities, enabling students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their academic goals without undue financial burden.

The University of British Columbia offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Arts program in English designed to provide students with a deep understanding of English language, literature, and critical analysis. This program emphasizes developing students' skills in reading, writing, and interpreting complex texts across diverse periods and genres. Students in the English BA curriculum have the opportunity to explore a wide range of literary works, from classical to contemporary, including poetry, drama, fiction, and non-fiction. The program encourages analytical thinking and fosters an appreciation for linguistic and cultural diversity through literature from different regions and traditions.

Throughout their studies, students engage in close reading and textual analysis, honing their ability to interpret themes, symbols, and stylistic devices used by authors. They also gain proficiency in writing essays, research papers, and creative pieces, preparing them for various career paths in education, publishing, media, law, and more. The program offers specialized courses in areas such as literary theory, critical race studies, gender studies, postcolonial literature, and digital humanities, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals.

In addition to coursework, students are encouraged to participate in seminars, workshops, and internships that provide practical experience and professional development opportunities. The university’s vibrant campus community, coupled with access to extensive libraries and digital resources, supports a rich academic environment. The program also often collaborates with other disciplines, enabling interdisciplinary studies and research projects.

Graduates of the English BA program at UBC are well-equipped with critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills that are highly valued in multiple sectors, including academia, publishing, journalism, public relations, and corporate communications. The program’s rigorous academic training prepares students for further graduate study or professional endeavors, making it a versatile and rewarding field of study. Overall, the English program at UBC fosters a lifelong appreciation of literature and language, encouraging students to become thoughtful, expressive, and culturally aware individuals ready to contribute meaningfully to society.