Master of Arts - Island Studies (Sustainable Island Communities) (Course-based) at University of Prince Edward Island - Program overview

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Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-03-31

Program overview

The Master of Arts in Island Studies (MAIS) at the University of Prince Edward Island is a distinctive, interdisciplinary, and policy-driven graduate program. It focuses on the unique aspects of islands, including their culture, environment, economy, geography, and politics. This program is designed for students from diverse backgrounds, whether they have academic qualifications or professional experience in various sectors. The MAIS program encourages students to explore their interests in island societies, public policy, and community development, preparing them for careers in governmental and non-governmental organizations, as well as in the private sector. With a commitment to fostering new talents, the program aims to equip students with the skills necessary to address the complex challenges faced by island communities.

Program structure

The Master of Arts in Island Studies program offers a course-based stream with a program length of approximately two years. Students can choose from three specializations: Island Tourism, Sustainable Island Communities, and International Relations and Island Public Policy. The program is structured as follows:

September–December 2025: Foundational courses such as Themes and Perspectives in Island Studies and specialized courses based on the chosen stream.
January–April 2026: Continuation of specialized courses tailored to each focus area.
May–June 2026: The first work-study experience, allowing students to engage in applied research projects.
September 2026–April 2027: Additional courses delivered primarily face-to-face.
June 2027: Completion of the Capstone Course, which integrates learning and practical application.
July–August 2027: The second work-study experience course.

This structure ensures that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, preparing them for impactful careers in island studies.

Featured Experiences

The Master of Arts in Island Studies program offers several unique features that enhance the learning experience:

Work-study opportunities that allow students to engage in applied research projects with island organizations.
In-person and hybrid course delivery, combining face-to-face, online, and video-based instruction.
Access to the Institute of Island Studies and the UNESCO Chair in Island Studies and Sustainability, providing additional resources and networking opportunities.
Experiential learning through fieldwork and collaboration with professionals in the tourism and sustainability sectors.
Capstone projects that integrate theoretical knowledge with real-world applications.

These experiences are designed to prepare students for the complexities of working in island communities and related fields.

Career Options

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

Policy Analyst: Work with governmental and non-governmental organizations to analyze and develop policies related to island communities.
Community Development Officer: Focus on enhancing the social and economic well-being of island communities through sustainable practices.
Environmental Consultant: Provide expertise on sustainability and environmental management for projects on islands.
Tourism Manager: Oversee tourism initiatives and strategies that promote sustainable tourism in island destinations.
Researcher: Conduct studies on various aspects of island life, contributing to academic and policy discussions.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make meaningful contributions to island communities and beyond.

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

Visit University of Prince Edward Island official website

Last updated on 2025-03-31

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Academic Requirements for the Master of Arts in Island Studies (Sustainable Island Communities) program at the University of Prince Edward Island are as follows:

The minimum requirement for admission is a Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent, in an honours or majors program from a recognized university or college.
Applicants are expected to have achieved an average of at least second class (“B”, i.e. 70% to 79.9%) standing in the work of the last four semesters or the last two undergraduate years.
All official post-secondary transcripts must be mailed or couriered directly from the institution to UPEI.
A "Statement of Research Interests" is required, which should be a 1-3 page statement indicating your motivation for applying to this particular program.
A sample of written research work (in English) from prior university or professional experience must be submitted.
Two (2) letters of recommendation from professors or those familiar with your professional work are necessary.
A resume or curriculum vitae must be included in the application.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

The application deadlines are as follows:

Fall term: July 1 (all application materials must be received by July 8)
Winter term: November 1 (all application materials must be received by November 8)

Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure they meet the deadlines. For any clarification and support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

At the University of Prince Edward Island, demonstrating proficiency in the English language is essential for all academically admissible applicants, regardless of their country of origin or citizenship status. This requirement ensures that students can successfully engage with the language of instruction, which is English. Proficiency can be demonstrated through:

Possession of a degree or its academic equivalent from an institution recognized by the University of Prince Edward Island where the language of instruction is English. Proof that the instruction for the degree was in English may be required and will be confirmed by the UPEI Registrar’s Office.
Or a satisfactory score on one of the following approved English language examinations:

TEST	REGULAR OFFER (NURSING, EDUCATION, DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY, DOCTOR OF APPLIED HEALTH)
IELTS (Academic)	7 in writing and speaking; 6.5 in reading and listening
TOEFL Paper-based test	600 with minimum TWE 6
TOEFL Internet-based test	100 with no band lower than 25
CAEL (including CAEL Online)	70
PTE	66
Cambridge B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency	185 in writing and speaking; 176 in reading and listening
GTECCBT	>1250
CELBAN for Nursing only

*Applicants meeting this requirement may be offered a conditional admission offer, which requires the prospective student to provide updated English language test results satisfying the minimum Unconditional English Language Proficiency requirements before being permitted to enroll in Graduate level courses or participate in Graduate program activity.

Prospective students with a conditional offer of admission for English language proficiency conditions must submit their updated test results by the following deadlines:

Admitted to a Summer Semester Start – April 1
Admitted to a Fall Semester Start – August 1
Admitted to a Winter Semester Start – December 1

Any exam should have been written within the last two years. If not written in the last two years, students should make arrangements to take the test at least three months before the semester opening date.

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!