Bishop's University

What you'll study

Candidates complete a minimum of 45 credits divided between coursework and a thesis:

• Coursework component: at least 15 credits of regularly scheduled graduate courses. Specific course requirements are determined for each Individualized Program during the application process.
• Thesis component: 30 credits made up of a 3-credit thesis proposal and 27 credits for research and the thesis.

Entry requirements

Minimum admission requirements are:

• a faculty member competent and willing to supervise both coursework and research;
• an undergraduate degree with a major related to the proposed research project;
• a minimum average of 75% (or equivalent; 3.0/4.0 or B-);
• proof of English language proficiency.

Application steps include securing a supervisor, preparing required documents (official transcripts and degrees, the Individualized Program M.Sc./M.A. Research Proposal Form, and letters of recommendation), and submitting the online application with fee. Current Bishop’s students must provide one letter of recommendation; other applicants must provide two. Letter(s) of recommendation must be emailed by the referee to admissions@ubishops.ca. Application deadlines: March 1 for fall entry and October 1 for winter entry; priority is given to complete applications by those dates, though some programs may accept later applications if space remains.

Career prospects

The program is research-focused and prepares graduates for research careers, further doctoral study, or applied roles where tailored, interdisciplinary research skills are required. Because the thesis topics are individualized, career outcomes depend on the subject matter and the professional networks developed during supervision and research.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Full-time thesis-based students are eligible to compete for research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and scholarships. Graduate students may also receive support through international exchange scholarships, research grants to supervisors, and the Graduate Entrance Scholarship (conditions apply). Funding is awarded on a competitive basis.