MA in English - Rhetoric and Communication Design (Thesis) 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 through the co-op stream—plus a PhD in Language and Literature. The MA in Literary Studies (LIT) builds upon our department's established reputation across key areas of British, American, and Canadian English literature. The MA in Rhetoric and Communication Design (RCD) features instruction from globally recognized experts specializing in rhetoric, multimedia design and analysis, discourse studies, and professional communication. The MA in Experimental Digital Media (XDM), based at our Critical Media Lab extension, offers guidance from pioneering digital researchers and creators. Within the Rhetoric and Communication Design program (MA-RCD), students establish their research foundation through the core rhetorical theory course (ENGL 700), pursuing studies across rhetoric, discourse analysis, semiotics, multimedia critique, composition teaching methods, and professional writing. MA-RCD alumni work across corporate sectors, government agencies, educational institutions, NGOs, and entrepreneurial ventures, while some continue to doctoral studies. This stream requires completion of four term-length courses.

Thesis proposals must provide a comprehensive project summary, including a chapter breakdown, within a 1,000-word limit (excluding bibliography). Required elements include: identifying headers with student/supervisor/committee names and project title; clearly marked sections with subheadings and spacing; and page numbering. This document serves to gather input from advisors, readers, and the English Graduate Committee to facilitate project completion. Graduate Committee approval is mandatory before proceeding. Proposals should define primary research objectives, identify textual/analytical materials, and contextualize the project within its academic discipline.