Why an MA in Policy Studies?

There are many reasons why you should consider applying to be part of our program. 

• • The University of Alberta is a Top 5 Canadian University and one of the best in the world. Though the program is new, it is housed in the Department of Political Science, which has a long-standing reputation for studying and advancing the common good. All of this means you’ll be earning a degree that people recognize as a mark of excellence. 

  • Tuition rates are some of the lowest in the country for a graduate program in policy studies program, offering increased value and accessibility.

  • Every student in our practicum stream has successfully secured full-time employment as part of their program. We have a 100% placement rate.

  • The program normally takes 16 months to complete, but that includes time for the completion of a practicum which is a paid, for-credit work opportunity. Students can potentially complete the program in 12 months.

  • Many public sector jobs require graduate degrees, and candidates with graduate degrees in public policy are highly sought after. In many cases, graduate degrees are required for promotion within the public sector, even amongst those with significant professional experience.

  • MAPS welcomes professional applicants as well as students with little to no formal policy experience. Our admissions standards will guarantee we have a qualified and diverse cohort, giving you the opportunity to learn from not only our Faculty and Instructors, but also your peers.

  • The program combines practice with theory, meaning you not only learn professional skills, but are also exposed to the latest academic scholarship and receive an education that meets the highest academic standards.  You will be well-positioned to pursue a wide range of academic and non-academic career paths, as a result.

  • The program has a transgovernmental understanding of public policy.  Through course-based activities, professional development workshops, mentorships, and paid internships, MAPS helps students expand their networks and build meaningful connections with policy experts from all levels of government, as well as Indigenous organizations and the non-profit and private sectors.

  • The program includes three core classes which are directed specifically at the program cohort, as well as the opportunity to take courses in policy, political science, and policy-related courses from other programs at the university. This means that even for University of Alberta undergraduates, there will be new and interesting courses.

  • The degree will include hands-on experience that you can use to develop your competencies and build your resume. You will have the chance to practice various practical skills such as writing briefing notes, conducting policy research, and evaluating policy decisions.

  • We give students projects and assignments that reflect real world problems and help them to build the skills and competencies necessary to solve them. The program gives you opportunities in course work, through your paid practicum, and through professional development sessions to acquire and improve your professional skill set.

  • The program’s unique 360 degree feedback assessment process helps to prepare you for the professional world; giving you regular assessments helps you to build your competencies as you become more self-aware and receive guidance on how to take charge of your own professional development.

  • We will work to support our students in securing practicum and internship positions that fit with their interests and goals.

  • We offer flexible scheduling that means you can keep working while completing your degree. We offer block courses, as well as part time options.

  • The practicum is optional, so if you have significant work experience, you can choose the course-based stream which allows you to delve more deeply into a greater number of policy areas.

  • The program will provide students with the opportunity to network and make connections throughout the public sector in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, and beyond.