Master of Science - Earth Sciences - Specialization in Science, Society and Policy (Thesis) at University of Ottawa - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-09-04

Program overview

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Program overview

The Master of Science in Earth Sciences with a specialization in Science, Society and Policy is a postgraduate program offered by the University of Ottawa. This program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complex relationship between scientific research and policy-making. Students will engage in a collaborative specialization that emphasizes the evaluation of challenges at the intersection of science and policy. The program is delivered in English and offers both full-time and part-time registration options. Graduates will receive a Master’s degree that highlights their specialization, preparing them for impactful careers in various sectors.

Program structure

The Master of Science in Earth Sciences with a specialization in Science, Society and Policy is structured to provide a comprehensive educational experience over a period of 24 consecutive months for full-time students. The program includes:

Thesis-based research component
Collaborative specialization in Science, Society and Policy
Access to research facilities at both the University of Ottawa and Carleton University
Opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary studies

Students are required to complete a series of compulsory courses, including a seminar and a thesis, which focuses on a research topic related to science, society, and policy. The program also allows for flexibility in course selection, enabling students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals.

Featured Experiences

The Master of Science in Earth Sciences program offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning journey:

Collaborative Specialization: Students can specialize in Science, Society, and Policy, gaining insights into the interplay between scientific evidence and policy-making.
Research Opportunities: Access to the Ottawa-Carleton Geoscience Centre, which provides shared research facilities and resources from both universities.
Thesis Component: Students will conduct original research under the supervision of faculty members, culminating in a thesis that contributes to the field.
Interdisciplinary Approach: The program encourages collaboration across various disciplines, allowing students to engage with different perspectives and methodologies.
Seminars and Workshops: Regular seminars and workshops provide students with opportunities to present their research and engage with experts in the field.

Career Options

Graduates of the Master of Science in Earth Sciences with a specialization in Science, Society, and Policy can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Environmental Consultant: Advises organizations on environmental best practices and compliance with regulations.
Policy Analyst: Analyzes and develops policies related to environmental issues, science, and technology.
Research Scientist: Conducts research in academic or governmental institutions, focusing on earth sciences and related fields.
Science Communicator: Works to bridge the gap between scientific research and public understanding, often in media or educational settings.
Project Manager: Oversees projects related to environmental sustainability, ensuring they meet scientific and policy standards.

These roles leverage the skills and knowledge gained during the program, preparing graduates to make significant contributions to society and the environment.

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 2025-09-04

Program overview

Academic Requirements

Minimum Requirements

B in an Honours BSc degree in Earth Sciences or a related discipline

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. Academic references preferred.
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. Academic references preferred.

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 A letter of intent outlining your career goals and proposed research area. We recommend that you contact potential thesis supervisors early. To register, you need to be accepted by a thesis supervisor. International students must show proof of funding in the form of a supervisor stipend and a combination of scholarships and/or in-trust accounts. A good knowledge of either English or French and good ability to write in English is required. Please note that non required admission documents will not be consulted, conserved or returned to the student. These documents will be destroyed according to our administrative procedures.

Required document(s):

Resume
A letter of intent outlining your career goals and proposed research area.
We recommend that you contact potential thesis supervisors early. To register, you need to be accepted by a thesis supervisor.
International students must show proof of funding in the form of a supervisor stipend and a combination of scholarships and/or in-trust accounts.
A good knowledge of either English or French and good ability to write in English is required.

Please note that non required admission documents will not be consulted, conserved or returned to the student. These documents will be destroyed according to our administrative procedures.

If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding the application process or requirements, please feel free to contact LOA Portal's advisors for support.

Language Requirements

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!