Master's Studies (Course-Based)
Course-based master's degrees are increasingly valued in today’s global economy. They cater to the demand for highly trained professionals capable of providing focused and structured solutions through their knowledge.
Course-based master's programs at the ÀÖÓ¯VI usually include a greater number of courses than thesis-based programs, providing focused and leading-edge learning, alongside research and practicum placement components.
Requirements
As a course-based master's student at the U of A, you must fulfill several program requirements, including coursework, a capstone research project decided with your academic advisor and any additional program-specific requirements, all within a six-year timeframe.
There are other , both academic and administrative, that must be completed during your time at the university.
Program Requirements
Some requirements are defined by the university. These include:
- Ethics training
- Professional development
- Capstone project
Other requirements are defined by your department, including coursework, practica and comprehensive examinations.
A full list of requirements is defined in your department's section in the as well as your department’s graduate handbook.
Your Academic Journey
The Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies (GPS) is here to support you during your time at the U of A. Curious about what the academic journey of a course-based master’s student looks like? Explore each phase below.
Laying the Foundation
Your program may allow either part-time or full-time registration as your studies progress. Some forms of financial support such as government loans or scholarships may require full-time status to . This means a registration of at least nine credits in each of the fall and winter terms. International students may not be eligible to apply for part-time status under their study permit regulations and should contact International Student Services for more information.
To keep your program active, you must register for at least three credits in each September to August period.
In many disciplines, part of your research work may be done off-campus. Please speak to your department about off-campus registration where appropriate.
If you are looking for financial support, there are many options available to you including employment as a Teaching or Research Assistant.
These contracts of employment are governed by the Collective Agreement for Academically Employed Graduate Students negotiated between the Graduate Students’ Association (GSA) and the university's Board of Directors.
Another common form of financial support is a graduate scholarship or award. GPS administers over 2,000 scholarships for graduate students. For students in financial distress, we also offer bursaries and emergency funding.
Pursuing Your Program
As a course-based master’s student, you'll have at least one academic advisor who will work with you to plan your academic program and capstone project. If you weren't assigned an advisor upon admission, please reach out to your department.
As a graduate student, you must maintain .