FAQs

What is the MA (WGS)?

The Master of Arts in Women & Gender Studies is a thesis-based degree offered jointly by Mount Saint Vincent University and Saint Mary’s University. Both universities are in Halifax, Nova Scotia. In this program, you’ll have the opportunity to take classes at either institution, and to work with students and faculty members at both schools.

If you are considering applying to the MA (WGS), you should consider the academic interests of current faculty when choosing a thesis topic. Each student thesis must be supervised by a faculty member with a similar research background.

Visit the faculty profile pages to learn about the academic interests of faculty members.

How long does the program take to complete?

Completion times vary. Depending on course availability, and whether you want to study full-time or part-time, you can finish the MA (WGS) in as little as two years. Most full-time students complete their coursework in the first year, and complete their theses in the second year.

Part-time students have up to five years to complete the program requirements.

Do you offer flexible and distance learning options?

Yes! Many of our students work full- or part-time, have families, and other personal and professional commitments. We offer a variety of learning options, including full- or part-time enrolment and evening classes.

If I have an interest in pursuing the MA (WGS), how do I find information about the research backgrounds of potential supervisors?

Visit the faculty profile pages, learn about the academic interests of faculty members. These pages describe our faculty’s research interests, publications, and academic and professional backgrounds.

What careers will the MA (WGS) prepare me for?

Many of our graduates go on to pursue doctoral studies, and eventually become researchers, university professors, and college instructors. Other graduates work as consultants, instructors, or in government and the profit, not-for-profit, and arts sectors.

What is the expected workload?

Graduate students should come prepared to do a greater amount of reading and independent study, compared to undergraduate students. Classes normally meet once a week in a three-hour seminar format where students analyze and discuss assigned readings. Graduate students are expected to go beyond the assigned readings to broaden their knowledge.