MA Program Requirements and Application Process

Master of Arts in Communications Studies (MA)

The MA is a thesis-based program designed for students who wish to pursue a research or scholarly career. Students are expected to complete the MA degree in 2 years of full-time study.

MA program requirements

Courses:

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  • Thesis 112
  • 3 core courses:  COMS 601, COMS 613, COMS 615
  • 3 elective courses (see course descriptions for a list of courses offered)

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  • Note:  most COMS classes are held in the evenings 

 

• Thesis: Students spend the second year of their programs researching and writing their theses
• Thesis defense: an oral examination based on the thesis

 

How to apply
All applicants must provide

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  • a letter of intent that describes the area of interest they would like to pursue (250- 500 words)
  • a current curriculum vitae
  • 2 samples of their written work
  • 2 letters of reference from academic referees
  • 2 official transcripts from a recognized post secondary institution indicating the awarding of a baccalaureate degree. (Note:  the transcripts must indicate a grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 (B) on a 4.0 scale or the equivalent)

 

English Proficiency:  Those applicants who have English as their second language must demonstrate English language proficiency.  ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY 

Application Deadline is January 15

• The complete application package must arrive in the Faculty of Communication and Culture Graduate Programs Office prior to January 15
• Late and/or incomplete applications will not be considered
• Admission decisions are normally made within one month of the application date

To Apply Online: 

• Go to:  http://www.grad.ucalgary.ca/
• When applying online, you must still send certain materials by mail (including transcripts, letters of reference, and samples of written work)

 

Contact information: Visit the Graduate Programs Office for more information. 
GRADUATE PROGRAMS OFFICE .