Program

Program format

In some master’s programs, students may choose between one or more formats such as a thesis, project or a course work option. The program format and options are specified in this academic calendar and in other program information.

Some master’s programs require students to write a thesis, while other programs require a project, major paper or other work. The thesis, project or major paper is a central part of the student’s program and helps fulfill one of the university’s mandates: to promote the generation of knowledge through scholarly research of the highest quality.

A thesis is an original work that is overseen by a research supervisor and a supervisory committee. The thesis is worth at least nine credits and involves an oral examination that includes an assessment by a master’s thesis examiner or doctoral external examiner. A project or major paper for a master’s degree is an original work that is supervised by a research supervisor and includes a second reader. Projects and major papers are worth at least six credits and do not require an oral examination or a master’s thesis examiner and doctoral external examiner.

A PhD student must prepare a written research proposal and pass an oral candidacy exam. Each PhD candidate’s research and dissertation are overseen by a research supervisor and a supervisory committee. The dissertation must be defended before an examining committee. A PhD dissertation involves intensive research and constitutes a new contribution to the field of study.

New graduate programs and review of existing programs

When developing new graduate programs or reviewing existing ones, the university follows the Quality Assurance Framework of the Ontario Universities Council on Quality Assurance.