M.A. and M.Sc. in Geography

Our M.A. and M.Sc. programs introduce students to independent research while broadening and deepening their contact with a selected aspect of Geography

Program Start Date

We offer one intake a year in September. The application process to our program opens in November and closes in January.

Programs of Study

Four programs are available, each may be terminal or may lead to doctoral study:

• Master of Arts (M.A.) - Thesis Program - (30 credits)
• Master of Arts (M.A.) - Non-thesis Program with Comprehensive Examination (30 credits)
• Master of Science (M.Sc.) - Thesis Program (30 credits)
• Master of Science (M.Sc.) - Non-thesis Program with Comprehensive Examination (30 credits)

It is very rare for a student to take the non-thesis option for the M.A. or M.Sc. and it makes no difference in terms of admissions. For more information on each option, please review the graduation requirements.

Other Program Requirements

Spring Review

A program progress review is required of all M.A./ M.Sc. students in the spring of their first year. And, it allows students to discuss their research plans with their Committee.

Spring Symposium

All M.A./ M.Sc. students in their second year are required to present their work at the annual Spring Symposium held in May. They are also encouraged to make presentations at Home Seminars, Department Colloquia, professional meetings and conferences.

Residence

A M.A./ M.Sc. degree can be completed by part-time or full-time study. But, the degree must be completed within five years of initial registration, despite your full-time or part-time status.

Full-time vs. Part-time

The full-time or part-time status is defined by which fee schedule you are paying and not by the course load you are having. Part-time students are expected to complete the same academic workload as required of full-time students. For more information on the fee schedule, please review the Tuition page.

Candidacy

Candidacy as a full-time student requires attendance at the University for one complete winter session (September to May) for students who have fulfilled all prerequisites. In practice, most students take two years of full-time study to complete the degree.