Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the application deadline?
The deadline is February 1st of the admission year.
When do I have to have all my documentation submitted to apply?
All documents, including reference letters, must be submitted by February 1st of the application year.
Do I need secure a supervisor before I apply?
No. However, we ask that you mention two professors you think would be a good fit with your proposed research topic based on the faculty member research profiles on the IIS website.
I do not intend to do a research stream, do I still have to include a research plan in my statement of intent?
Yes. Students do not decide on their streams until their second semester. So, you may decide to do research after your first semester even if that was not your original intention. Regardless, you will be doing research papers in your coursework so demonstrating your ability to outline a research plan is still relevant for coursework students. You are welcome to keep this section brief, explain that you intend to do coursework, and focus more on section ‘c’ of the statement of intent.
Can I apply for winter admission?
The MA in HRSJ only accepts fall admission.
Can my writing sample be something that I co-authored?
No, you should be the sole author of your chosen writing sample.
Can I get my reference letters from colleagues?
No. References must be academic in nature (former professors) as they are commenting on your potential for graduate studies. If you have been out of school for a long time (several years), you may have one of your references come from a supervisor or boss.
How do I get a reference from a professor when I have been out of school for a while?
Professors are experienced at writing letters for students even years after they have had them. When you reach out to a professor you have had, include information about the class(es) you took, when you took their class(es) and what grade(s) you received. Attach your transcript, CV, and a piece of work from their class if you have it (with comments from them if possible).
Is the program funded?
Information on funding can be found here and here.
Is part-time study available?
Yes. Please note that funding packages are only available to full-time students.
What is the minimum GPA needed to apply?
Applicants must have at least a B+ (overall-entire Bachelor’s) average to apply. This is equivalent to a 9.0 on a Carleton grade point scale. Please note that meeting the minimum required CGPA does not guarantee admission into the program.
I am applying as an international student. A) What are the approved English language tests? B) What is the minimum score I must attain for eligibility?
Information about language testing can be found here.
Can I get the application fee waived?
No, the application fee cannot be waived.
Is there any funding available for international students?
Funding for international students is limited and thus very competitive. In addition to faculty-specific funding, international students may apply to OGS and some internal donor-funded awards. More information about funding can be found here and here.
Information on costs and fees for international students can be found here.
How do I access information about student visas?
All questions pertaining to study permits, Post-Graduation Work Permits, or immigration issues must be directed to the International Student Services Office.
How do I access information about housing on campus?
Information surrounding on-campus housing can be found here.
Where do I access information about tuition fees?
Information about tuition can be found here.
Do I have to do a thesis?
No, the MA in Human Rights and Social Justice offers three pathways: thesis, research essay, and coursework.
Do I have to apply to the specific pathway that I am interested in?
No, everyone will start out doing coursework. Students interested in the research essay or thesis pathway will apply in their second semester (winter). At least an A- in each of your graduate courses is required to do the research essay or thesis pathway.
What are the program requirements?
Program requirements for each of the three pathways (thesis, research essay, and coursework) can be found here.
How many courses should I take?
That depends on what pathway you intend to complete. Normally, you should not enroll in more than 3 classes a semester. A thesis typically takes 2-3 semesters to complete and a research essay typically takes 2. You should have all of your coursework done before you start your thesis, but you can do coursework alongside your research essay (typically no more than 1 class per semester). Registration in fall and winter is mandatory whereas summer semesters are optional. You have 2 years (summer semesters included) to complete the program full-time.