Graduate Degrees
| Program | Components | Duration |
| MA/MSc | Coursework and Thesis | 24 months |
| PhD | Coursework and Dissertation | 48 months |
At UBC Okanagan, community, culture and global studies students can pursue Interdisciplinary Graduate Studies (IGS) programs. These programs allow students to work closely with faculty across a diverse set of departments and disciplines, with a CCGS faculty member as their supervisor. These Themes bring interdisciplinary approaches to defined areas of study, and also provide a cohort setting from which to build a network of peers.
In select circumstances, students can also apply to take an individualized option (PhD only) which offers coursework that is customized to the student’s specialized area of interdisciplinary study, with a CCGS faculty member as their supervisor.
Students enroled in master’s programs will learn methods and acquire skills that enable them to undertake practical research on real-world problems in academic and non-academic contexts. Graduates of the master’s program are prepared for employment opportunities in teaching and research institutions, private-sector organizations and corporations, or for public-sector governmental and non-governmental organizations.
Program Milestones
- establishing a faculty supervisory committee
- completing coursework
- preparing, presenting, and defending a thesis research proposal
- engaging in independent research
- collecting and analyzing data
- writing and defending a thesis
- publishing research results
Coursework & Thesis Requirements
- 30 credits required for completion
- coursework requirements vary by Theme
- all courses must be approved by the student’s supervisory committee
Most master’s students become Teaching Assistants for at least one semester in order to gain valuable experience and to learn effective communications strategies.
The PhD is an advanced research degree that requires original and substantive contributions to the advancement of knowledge. Graduates of the PhD program are prepared for employment opportunities in teaching and research institutions, private-sector organizations and corporations, or for public-sector governmental and non-governmental organizations.
Program Milestones
- establishing a faculty supervisory committee
- preparing, presenting, and defending a dissertation research proposal
- completing coursework
- passing a candidacy examination that demonstrates breadth and depth of knowledge in the chosen field and specialization
- completing dissertation research and writing, and defending the work
PhD students are also expected to communicate research results via conference presentations and publications in scientific journals.
Coursework & Thesis Requirements
At the PhD level, coursework beyond two program-wide mandatory courses is required only at the discretion of the student’s supervisory committee, depending on previous course credits from the prior master’s degree and the nature of the student’s research objectives.
Most PhD students become Teaching Assistants in order to gain valuable teaching experience and to enhance their communication skills.
Themes
An IGS Theme is a defined area of interdisciplinary study supported by a group of faculty engaged in a common space of interdisciplinary, trans-disciplinary, and/or multidisciplinary research. Each Theme offers a specific group of graduate courses to advance the education and expertise of students in its interdisciplinary area, and its faculty members are available to assist and/or supervise students in their Theme-based program of master’s or doctoral studies.
Six IGS Themes are available. Please visit specific Theme pages for detailed admission requirements, tuition and funding information, and for instructions on how to apply. Interested applicants are encouraged to begin contacting potential supervisors early.
Individualized Option
An individualized option is available for PhD students only. This option is restricted to graduate students who have first-class standing and who can acquire University-based or scholarship funding at the equivalent of full Tri-Council levels. The individualized option builds a program that is flexible and responsive to the specialized interests of the student. In the Individualized IGS program option, the supervisor creates a supervisory committee in consultation with the applicant. The committee and specified coursework are customized to the student’s area of study.
For more information, talk to your potential supervisor or visit the College of Graduate Studies website.
Teaching & Research Assistantships
teaching ASSISTANTSHIPS (TA)
Paid TA positions allow graduate students to develop skills in teaching, supervision, facilitation, and student assessment. Teaching assistants may lead seminars, help teach undergraduate courses, or assist in student evaluations and marking.
- MSc students are eligible for paid TA positions for up to two years.
- PhD students are eligible for paid TA positions for up to four years.
- TA positions usually occur September to April. TA hours and wages are governed by the British Columbia Government Employees Union (BCGEU).
Teaching assistants are mentored by their supervisor and via the Centre for Teaching and Learning. To learn more or apply for a position, see our Careers page.
RESEARCH ASSISTANTSHIPS (RA)
As paid research assistants, graduate students assist their supervisor or other researchers in conducting high-level research. RAs are typically funded by a supervisor’s external grants, contracts or other sources of funding, and, therefore, are not guaranteed.
Research Assistantships are wholly dependent upon individual research supervisor’s funding. RA positions may take place at any time during the school year and wages and hours will vary. RA positions are not guaranteed. Talk to your potential supervisor about RA opportunities.
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