Master of Arts - Communication (Major Research Paper or Project) (Optional Co-op) (Thesis) (Course) at University of Ottawa - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-09-12

Program overview

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Program overview

The Master of Arts in Communication at the University of Ottawa offers students the opportunity to engage in advanced studies in communication through either a thesis or a research paper. This program is designed to develop critical skills in media studies and organizational communication, focusing on the interplay between media, culture, and society. Students can also opt for a concentration in health communication or participate in a double degree program with the Université catholique de Louvain, earning a Master en communication multilingue alongside their MA. The program is available on a full-time or part-time basis, accommodating diverse student needs.

Program structure

The Master of Arts in Communication program is structured to provide flexibility and depth in the study of communication. The program options include:

Program Length: Full-time students are expected to complete the thesis option within two years and the research paper option within 16 months. The maximum duration for both full-time and part-time students is four years.
Students can choose between a thesis or a research paper, with the latter allowing for a concentration in health communication.
Students have the option to participate in a co-op program, enhancing their practical experience in the field.
The program is governed by the academic regulations in effect for graduate studies at the University of Ottawa.

This structure ensures that students receive a comprehensive education while allowing them to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals.

Featured Experiences

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

Students can participate in a double degree program with the Université catholique de Louvain, allowing them to earn a Master en communication multilingue.
The program includes a co-op option, providing students with valuable hands-on experience in the field of communication.
Research opportunities are available, focusing on media studies and organizational communication, which are critical areas in today’s communication landscape.
Students can engage in collaborative programs, such as the Science, Society and Policy program, which broadens their academic and professional horizons.

These experiences are designed to prepare students for successful careers in various communication fields.

Career Options

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

Public Relations Specialist: Develops and maintains a positive public image for organizations, managing communications and media relations.
Communication Manager: Oversees internal and external communication strategies, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
Health Communication Specialist: Focuses on effective communication strategies in healthcare settings, promoting health literacy and patient engagement.
Media Analyst: Evaluates media content and trends, providing insights to organizations on public perception and media impact.
Corporate Communication Consultant: Advises organizations on communication strategies, crisis management, and stakeholder engagement.

These roles leverage the skills and knowledge acquired during the program, equipping graduates to make significant contributions in their chosen fields.

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 2025-09-12

Program overview

Academic Requirements

Minimum Requirements

Honours BA in Art History, or an equivalent, with a minimum A- (80%).
Applicants who do not have an honours degree in Art History may, in suitable cases, be recommended by the Visual Arts Department for admission to a qualifying program. Such applicants are usually honours graduates in another subject field.

Required document(s)

Resume (must include chronological academic history)
Letter of intent

Your complete admission package must include

Recommendation letter(s): 2

It is highly recommended that you contact your referee prior to submitting your application to confirm their email address and their availability to complete your letter of recommendation.

Transcript(s): 1

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 students, etc. If your transcript and degree certificate are not in English or French, you must submit a copy of 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.

Language Requirements

French Program: DALF C1, C2 / TCF B2 (note globale) / TEF B2 (note globale) (Internet-based)
English Program: TOEFL 84 (Overall); 24 (Writing); 20 (Individual) / IELTS 6.5 (Overall); 6.5 (Writing); 6 (Individual) (Internet-based)

Most seminars are bilingual, conducted in English and/or French.
All applicants must have excellent knowledge of either English or French and, at least, a receptive knowledge of the other language.

Receptive knowledge means that one is capable of:

following a graduate-level seminar;

reading and understanding specialized and highly theoretical academic publications.

Proof of language proficiency in the dominant language is required for students whose language is neither English nor French.
The program reserves the right to further evaluate either or both languages.

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!