Overview

The Folklore programme at Memorial University of Newfoundland provides students with a comprehensive foundation in the study of traditions, culture, and heritage. This Master of Arts degree is designed to equip scholars with advanced ethnographic field research skills and a deep understanding of intangible cultural heritage. Students can choose between a traditional research-focused thesis route or a professional co-operative education work term.

Why Folklore at Memorial University of Newfoundland?

Memorial University of Newfoundland holds a unique position as the only Anglophone institution in Canada to provide extensive folklore studies at all academic levels. The department has established an international reputation over five decades for its imaginative and professional approach to ethnography. Students benefit from being situated in a province with vibrant, unique lifestyles and traditions that serve as a living laboratory for cultural study.

The university provides exceptional facilities for graduate research, including the Folklore and Language Archive. Scholars also have access to the Research Centre for the Study of Music, Media, and Place, fostering innovative community partnerships. These resources allow students to engage directly with the preservation and celebration of diverse cultural identities.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 710 per semester
• National fee: CAD 420 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on ethnographic methods and the analysis of cultural expressions. Modules may include:

• Ethnographic Field Research Practices
• Folklore Studies
• Intangible Cultural Heritage
• Music, Media, and Place
• Cultural Enterprise
• Heritage Studies

Careers with Folklore

Graduates of the programme are well-prepared for diverse roles within the cultural sector and academia. Many alumni secure teaching positions at universities and colleges across North America and Europe, often working in interdisciplinary fields such as communications, dance ethnography, English, and French. The skills gained during the degree are highly applicable to various professional environments.

Beyond the classroom, former students have successfully transitioned into careers within museums, archives, and arts administration. The programme also provides a strong foundation for work in print and broadcast media, as well as public sector folklore roles. These career paths highlight the versatility of the degree in managing and interpreting cultural assets.