MA with Specialization in African Studies

Entrance Requirements and Applications

The minimum requirement for admission to the MA Program with a specialization is an Honours bachelor’s degree (or the equivalent) with at least high honours standing. In their statement of interest students should clearly explain their interest in the field. Spaces in some specializations are limited, so students are first assessed for admittance to the MA program, and then they are assessed separately outside of the department for admission into a particular area of specialization.

Program Requirements

All MA students are required to take:

• HIST 5003: Historical Theory and Method (0.5 credit). This course will provide students with a solid grounding in historical theory and methodology in preparation for thesis and research essay projects.

In addition to the core requirement, students in MA History with Specialization in African Studies will complete:

In certain cases, up to 0.5 credit of courses may be taken from another unit at Carleton University, at the University of Ottawa, or at another accredited institution, with the permission of the department.

Guidelines for Completion of Master’s Degree

Full-time MA students are required to submit thesis proposals to the graduate supervisor in the second term. In general, students complete their course work in the first eight months (two semesters). Students in the 1-year program research and write their research essays (40-60 pages) in the following summer semester. Students in the 2-year program research, write, and defend their Master’s Thesis (120-150 pages) in their second year. The expected timelines for part-time students are different and students should consult the graduate calendar.

Language Requirements

All candidates are required to demonstrate a reading knowledge of a language other than English, the choice to depend on the field of the candidate’s thesis or research. For research projects dealing with sources not in English, a reading knowledge of the appropriate language will be required before acceptance into the program. Details may be obtained from the supervisor of graduate studies.

Disclaimer: Information on this is only a guideline and is subject to change. Please be sure to consult the graduate calendar for program information.