Master's Studies (Thesis-Based)

Some requirements are defined by the University:

• Ethics training,
• the Professional Development Requirement,
• master's final,
• and the thesis.

Other requirements are defined by your department, including coursework and comprehensive examinations.

Your department's section in the University Calendar as well as the graduate handbook define these requirements.

Students in thesis-based programs are admitted as full-time students. If a department wishes to admit a thesis-based student on a part-time basis, they must inform FGSR at the time of admission.

Under certain circumstances, students who have begun their programs may request a change from full-time status to part-time status. For information on this option, please see this page.

You have one or more thesis supervisors who must meet the University's supervisory requirements. If you were not assigned one at the time of admission, please consult with your department.

Thesis-based master's students do not require a supervisory committee, although many programs form such committees. This committee would include all of your supervisors, ensure that your thesis research progresses satisfactorily, arrange for necessary examinations, and that your thesis is ready to be defended. You are also required to provide the committee with an annual report.

Academic Integrity and Ethics Training is mandatory for all newly-admitted UAlberta graduate students. Each student is normally expected to complete the equivalent of at least eight (8) hours of structured academic activity to meet this requirement.

For detailed information on the requirement, see this page.

After consultation with the Graduate Students' Association and consideration of economic job trends, the University of Alberta is the first Canadian university to implement the Professional Development (PD) Requirement (following some of the Ivy League colleges in the United States).

It's an exciting new initiative to help you recognize your talents, pursue your interests, learn professional skills and make the connections that will help you excel in your chosen field. Although it is mandatory for all incoming graduate students, some departments have professional development already incorporated into their programs. Please check with your department to confirm how this requirement is fulfilled in your program.

For detailed information on the PD Requirement, see this page.

Sometimes, medical issues, parental responsibilities, or other emergencies mean that you may wish to take some time off from your studies. As a graduate student you may apply for an approved leave of absence that keeps your program in good standing. For information, see this page; access application forms for regular leaves of absence here and for maternity and/or parental, exceptional and professional leaves here.

Under certain circumstances, students who have begun their programs may request a change from full-time status to part-time status. For information on this option, please see this page. Application forms are available here.