MA in English - Rhetoric and Communication Design (Co-op) in Waterloo Canada | University of Waterloo

Our graduate programs include four options: Master's degrees in Literary Studies, Rhetoric and Communication Design, and Experimental Digital Media—each available with co-op opportunities—plus a PhD in Language and Literature. The MA in Literary Studies (LIT) builds on our department's established reputation across key areas of English-language literatures from Britain, America, and Canada. The MA in Rhetoric and Communication Design (RCD) is guided by faculty with global recognition in rhetoric, multimedia design and analysis, discourse studies, and professional communication. The MA in Experimental Digital Media (XDM), based at our Critical Media Lab satellite facility, offers instruction from leading digital scholars and artists. Students in the Rhetoric and Communication Design MA program (MA-RCD) begin with core rhetorical theory (ENGL 700) and explore areas like discourse analysis, semiotics, multimedia critique, composition teaching methods, and professional writing. MA-RCD alumni work across diverse sectors including corporate, government, education, NGOs, and entrepreneurship, while some pursue doctoral studies.

The co-op option allows students to acquire professional experience while funding their education. All English MA programs offer this co-op pathway. Choose the study format—traditional or co-op—that aligns with your goals.