Master of Arts - Anthropology (Thesis) (Optional Co-op) at University of Ottawa - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-09-15

Program overview

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Program overview

The Master of Arts in Anthropology at the University of Ottawa offers students a unique opportunity to explore the interconnectedness of local and global issues through the lens of anthropology. This program emphasizes ethnography as a vital research method, allowing students to engage with complex phenomena related to diverse topics such as medicine, the environment, and indigenous cultures. Students can choose between a full-time or part-time study format, with options available in both French and English. The program includes two pathways: the MA with thesis and the MA with research paper. Additionally, students may have the option to incorporate a co-op experience into their studies, providing practical work experience alongside their academic pursuits.

Program structure

The Master of Arts in Anthropology program is designed to be flexible, accommodating both full-time and part-time students. The program length is typically two years for full-time students, while part-time students may take longer to complete their studies. Key features of the program structure include:

Two options: MA with thesis and MA with research paper.
Opportunity to add a co-op option for practical work experience.
Courses offered in both French and English.
Field research opportunities to engage with contemporary issues globally.

Students are encouraged to maintain a full-time status if enrolled in the co-op option and must achieve a minimum GPA to remain in the program. The program is governed by the academic regulations for graduate studies, ensuring a high standard of education and research.

Featured Experiences

The Master of Arts in Anthropology program offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning journey:

Co-op Option: Selected students can participate in a co-op stream, completing two four-month work placements to gain practical experience.
Field Research: Students engage in ethnographic field research, allowing them to observe and understand contemporary issues firsthand.
Research Opportunities: The program emphasizes the importance of research, with students required to develop a thesis or research paper based on their findings.
Interdisciplinary Approach: The program encourages collaboration across various disciplines, enriching the academic experience.

Career Options

Graduates of the Master of Arts in Anthropology program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Anthropologist: Conduct research on cultural practices, social structures, and human behavior, often working in academic or governmental settings.
Cultural Resource Manager: Oversee the preservation and management of cultural heritage sites, ensuring compliance with regulations and promoting public education.
Policy Analyst: Analyze and develop policies related to social issues, using anthropological insights to inform decision-making processes.
Community Development Officer: Work with communities to identify needs and implement programs that promote social and economic development.
Research Consultant: Provide expertise in qualitative research methods to organizations, helping them understand cultural dynamics and improve their services.

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

Visit University of Ottawa official website

Last updated on 2025-09-15

Program overview

Academic Requirements

Minimum Requirements

Students who have a BA with honours or major in Anthropology with a minimum average of 70% (B), calculated in accordance with FGPS guidelines, may be admitted to the MA program.
Students who have an honours BA with a minimum average of 70% (B) in another discipline, calculated in accordance with FGPS guidelines, may be accepted into a qualifying program, requiring them to complete a maximum of eight courses.
For the Co-op option, students must have an admission average of B+ (75%) and maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 7.0 (B+ or 75%) in courses taken at the University of Ottawa.

Transcript(s)

1 transcript required.
You must upload copies of all transcripts from universities you have attended by using the uoDoc application. Transcripts must cover all courses and programs at any university you have attended, including regular programs (whether completed or not), exchanges, letters of permission, online or correspondence courses, courses taken as a non-degree student or visiting student, etc.
If your transcript and degree certificate are not in English or French, you must submit a certified translation.
Once you’ve received your offer of admission, if the offer contains any conditions for submitting official documents, you will need to upload them to uoDoc. Some exceptions apply.
Previous or current Ottawa students do not need to submit a transcript of their studies at the University of Ottawa. Professional programs in rehabilitation require all transcripts, including those from uOttawa.

Required Document(s)

2 Recommendation Letters (it is highly recommended that you contact your referee prior to submitting your application to confirm their email address and availability).
Resume
Students must indicate in their application the language in which they plan to take the majority of their courses.
Letter of Intent: 250 words describing your research interest.

Language Requirements

TOEFL 92–93 / IELTS Overall 6.5 – Individual 6.0 (Internet-based).

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!