Master of Arts - Political Science - Specialization in Feminist and Gender Studies (Major Research Paper or Project) at University of Ottawa - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-09-11

Program overview

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Program overview

The Master of Arts in Political Science with a Specialization in Feminist and Gender Studies at the University of Ottawa is designed for students interested in exploring political phenomena through a feminist lens. This program offers both a thesis and a major research paper option, allowing students to engage deeply with their chosen topics. The collaborative program enriches the educational experience by integrating feminist and gender studies perspectives into political science. Students can pursue their studies in either French or English, with a requirement to take at least one course in French. This program aims to equip graduates with the analytical skills necessary to address complex political issues related to gender and feminism.

Program structure

The Master of Arts in Political Science with a Specialization in Feminist and Gender Studies is structured to provide flexibility and depth in research. The program offers two options:

MA with Thesis: This option emphasizes individual research and requires the completion of a thesis.
MA with Major Research Paper: This option focuses on coursework and culminates in a major research paper.

Students can choose to study full-time or part-time, with a typical program length of two years for full-time students. The program includes:

Collaborative courses in Feminist and Gender Studies.
Opportunities to take courses in both French and English.
Engagement in interdisciplinary studies that combine political science with feminist perspectives.

Students are encouraged to consult with faculty advisors to tailor their individual program of study, ensuring it aligns with their research interests and career goals.

Featured Experiences

Collaborative Program: Students can participate in a collaborative program in Feminist and Gender Studies, which enhances their primary studies with interdisciplinary insights.
Research Opportunities: Students have the chance to engage in significant research projects that contribute to the field of feminist and gender studies.
Thesis and Research Paper Options: The program allows students to choose between a thesis or a major research paper, providing flexibility in how they wish to demonstrate their knowledge and research skills.
Language of Instruction: Courses are available in both French and English, promoting bilingualism and cultural competency.
Fieldwork and Practical Experience: Opportunities for fieldwork may be available, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world contexts.

Career Options

Graduates of the Master of Arts in Political Science with a Specialization in Feminist and Gender Studies can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Policy Analyst: Analyzing and developing policies that address gender issues and promote equality in various sectors.
Researcher: Conducting research in academic, governmental, or non-profit organizations focused on feminist and gender studies.
Advocacy Coordinator: Working with organizations to advocate for women's rights and gender equality at local, national, or international levels.
Community Organizer: Engaging communities in discussions and actions related to gender issues, social justice, and political engagement.
Educator: Teaching at the secondary or post-secondary level, focusing on political science, gender studies, or related fields.

These roles allow graduates to apply their knowledge and skills in meaningful ways, contributing to social change and the advancement of gender equity in society.

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 2025-09-11

Program overview

Academic Requirements

Minimum Requirements

B in a related honours Bachelor's degree
Students who have a BA with honours in political science or its equivalent with a minimum average of 70 % (B), calculated in accordance with FGPS guidelines, may be admitted directly to the MA program.
Students who do not have a BA with honours in political science, but who have a BA with a minor in political science or a BA in a related discipline, and a minimum average of 75 % (B +), may be accepted for a qualifying year, the content of which will be decided in consultation with the director of graduate studies in political science.
Students who enroll in their program in English (MA or PhD) must take and pass at least one of their required courses in French.
All students are permitted to hand in their assignments in French or in English, but students must be able to actively participate in a graduate seminar in French.
At the time of admission, students must have an active knowledge of French to be considered.

Complete Admission Package

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.

Additional Required Documents

Letter of intent: Please add a short description that includes your interest in Women Studies and your academic background and/or other relevant experience supporting your application in the collaborative program.
Resume

Language Requirements

TOEFL Paper-based: 580 / IELTS Overall: 6.5 - Individual: 6.0
TOEFL Internet-based: 92-93 / IELTS Overall: 7.0 - Individual: 6.0

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!