Master of Arts in Gender Studies (Thesis) at UNBC - University Of Northern British Columbia - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-08-20

Program overview

The Master of Arts in Gender Studies at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) provides a unique opportunity for students to engage with a diverse range of scholars focused on women and gender as critical analytical categories. This program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, allowing students to explore various themes such as gender, literature, cultural studies, history, and globalization. Students can tailor their studies to incorporate gender- or feminism-based methodologies, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of both national and transnational contexts. Graduates will emerge with a robust analytical framework and a specialized focus in their area of concentration.

Program structure

The Master of Arts in Gender Studies offers two distinct pathways: the MA with Thesis and the MA without Thesis. Each pathway is designed to provide a comprehensive educational experience.

MA with Thesis: This option typically takes up to two years to complete, requiring a total of 24 credit hours. Students must complete five courses and the Gender Studies Thesis (GNDR 700-9), which includes a written text and an oral defense.
MA without Thesis: This pathway can be completed in one year and also requires 24 credit hours. Students must complete seven courses and a major research paper (GNDR 701-3).
Both options require students to take GNDR 611-3 (Contemporary Feminist Theories) and may include courses from other graduate programs with approval.

Students are encouraged to engage in interdisciplinary studies, allowing them to connect their learning with other fields such as International Studies, Environmental Studies, and First Nations Studies.

Featured Experiences

Interdisciplinary approach, allowing students to integrate studies from various fields.
Opportunity to work closely with faculty members who are experts in gender studies and related disciplines.
Thesis option includes an oral examination, enhancing presentation and defense skills.
Students can take courses in other graduate programs, fostering a broader academic experience.

Career Options

Gender Studies Researcher: Conducts research on gender issues, contributing to academic knowledge and policy development.
Advocacy Coordinator: Works with organizations to promote gender equality and social justice initiatives.
Policy Analyst: Analyzes and develops policies related to gender and social issues for government or non-profit organizations.
Educator: Teaches gender studies or related subjects at various educational institutions.
Community Outreach Specialist: Engages with communities to raise awareness about gender issues and promote educational programs.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Last updated on 2025-08-20

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Master of Arts in Gender Studies (Thesis) program, the following academic requirements apply:

Minimum GPA: Not specified.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

International students, including those from Vietnam and other Asian countries, should be aware of the following:

Senior Secondary School Graduation Diploma (Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Phổ Thông Trung Học) is required.
A minimum average grade of 5 or higher in English 12, three academic subjects, and an elective is necessary.
Transfer applicants must have a minimum of 15 credit hours of acceptable university-level coursework from a recognized post-secondary institution.
It is recommended to provide grades from the final two years of upper secondary school for prerequisite purposes.

For any clarification and support regarding the application process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English must be able to demonstrate an acceptable level of proficiency in English. The following tests are accepted as evidence of English language proficiency:

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of 90 or higher in the internet-based test, with not less than 20 in each of the Reading, Listening, Writing or Speaking components; score of at least 230 in the computer-based test or at least 570 in the paper-based test.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Academic score of at least 6.5 overall, with not less than 6.0 in any of the four modules.
Duolingo English Test score of 105 or higher.
A final grade of 2.00 (C) or better in the UNBC English Language Studies 50 and English Language Studies 170.
A final grade of 2.00 (C) or better in an articulated BCCAT EAP (BC Council on Admissions and Transfer English for Academic Purposes) 4 program.
A final grade of 50% or better in English Studies 12 from the British Columbia high school system.
A final grade of 75% (B) or better in a University-transferable English course.
A final grade of 75% or better in CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) / CISCE (Council for The Indian School Certificate Examinations) Class XII English Core.
Completion of two full years of full-time degree level studies or equivalent at a recognized institution where English is the language of instruction.
A final grade of 2 or better in AP (Advanced Placement) English Literature and Composition or AP Literature and Composition.
A final grade of 3 or better in IB (International Baccalaureate) English A1 or A2 (higher or subsidiary level).
MELAB (Michigan English Language Assessment Battery) score of at least 80, with a minimum of 3 on the Speaking Rating Scale.
CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language) or the CAEL CE (Computer Edition) Assessment score of at least 70, with no subtest below 60.
A grade of B or better on Cambridge English Qualification C1 Advanced.
PTE (Pearson Test of English - Academic): overall score of 65, with not less than 60 in each of reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!