Master of Arts - Public and International Affairs (Optional Co-op) at University of Ottawa - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-09-05

Program overview

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Program overview

The Graduate School of Public and International Affairs at the University of Ottawa offers a multidisciplinary master's program focusing on public and international affairs. The degree awarded is the Master of Arts (MA) in Public and International Affairs. This program can be pursued with coursework or a major research paper, available on both a part-time and full-time basis. Notably, a co-op option is available for full-time students, allowing them to gain practical work experience while studying. The program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of contemporary issues in public policy and international relations.

Program structure

The Master of Arts in Public and International Affairs is structured to provide students with a robust foundation in the field. The program includes:

Program Length: Full-time students are expected to complete the program within two years, while part-time students have a maximum of four years to fulfill all requirements.
Completion of five core courses and five elective specialized seminars.
One capstone seminar and either a research paper or two additional elective courses.
Co-op option available for full-time students, which includes two paid work placements.

Students enrolled part-time must complete the compulsory courses within the first two years of their enrollment. The program is designed to accommodate both full-time and part-time students, ensuring flexibility in their academic journey.

Featured Experiences

The Master of Arts in Public and International Affairs offers several unique features to enhance the learning experience:

Co-op Option: Full-time students can apply for a co-op stream, allowing them to complete two paid work placements, gaining valuable practical experience.
Capstone Seminar: This seminar integrates knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program, focusing on real-world policy problems and requiring teamwork to develop detailed policy briefs.
International Exchanges: Full-time students are encouraged to participate in international exchanges during their second year, providing exposure to global perspectives in public and international affairs.
Research Opportunities: Students can engage in directed research placements, allowing them to work on projects relevant to public and international affairs.

Career Options

Graduates of the Master of Arts in Public and International Affairs can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Policy Analyst: Analyzes and evaluates policies to provide recommendations for government and organizations.
International Relations Specialist: Works on diplomatic relations, international negotiations, and global policy issues.
Public Affairs Consultant: Advises organizations on public policy, government relations, and communication strategies.
Nonprofit Program Manager: Oversees programs and initiatives within nonprofit organizations focused on social issues and advocacy.
Researcher: Conducts research on public policy issues, contributing to academic and governmental studies.

These roles leverage the skills and knowledge gained through the program, preparing graduates for impactful careers in various sectors related to public and international affairs.

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 2025-09-05

Program overview

Academic Requirements

Minimum Requirements

B in an honours Bachelors degree in religious studies or equivalent

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.

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):

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.

Required document(s):	Resume (must include chronological academic history) Letter of intent in which you describe the intended field of research as well as your interest and your academic background in gender studies (minimum of two undergraduate level courses or one Master’s level course on gender, feminism, sexualities)

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)

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!