UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO · CANADA
German Studies Graduate Programs (MA and PhD)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Innovative degree programs combining linguistics and cultural studies.Innovative Programs
- Comprehensive programming in cultural studies: literature, film, and theory across all periods and genres.Cultural Studies Focus
- Strong programming in applied linguistics: theory, second language acquisition, discourse analysis, computer-assisted language learning.Applied Linguistics Strength
- Excellent training for both academic and non-academic careers.Career Preparation
- Close supervision by faculty.Faculty Supervision
- A diverse community of graduate students.Diverse Community
The Department of Germanic & Slavic Studies at the University of Waterloo offers graduate programs leading to a Master of Arts (MA) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in German. These programs provide in-depth, guided experience in teaching language and culture courses, both in-person and online. Students will join a community of highly skilled graduate students researching diverse fields within German studies. The department emphasizes innovative degree programs that combine linguistics and cultural studies, offering comprehensive programming in areas such as literature, film, theory, applied linguistics, second language acquisition, discourse analysis, and computer-assisted language learning. The programs are designed to provide excellent training for students pursuing both academic and non-academic careers, with close supervision from faculty.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- For IELTS Academic, you need an overall score of 6.5, with 6.5 in writing and speaking, and 6.0 in reading and listening. For TOEFL iBT (taken before January 21, 2026), the requirement is 90 overall, with 25 in writing and 25 in speaking. Exemptions may apply if you have studied in Canada or an English-language school system for the last four years.
- Are international students eligible for PhD programs in German Studies?
- Due to funding restrictions, the Faculty of Arts is currently not accepting international applicants for PhD programs. However, limited numbers of international students can still be accepted into MA programs.
- How can I estimate my tuition fees?
- An online Tuition Fee Estimator is available to provide an estimate of tuition and incidental fees. This estimator is based on a Fall 2026 term start and does not include living expenses or costs for preliminary English language training.
- What is the application deadline for Fall 2026 admission?
- Some programs are still accepting applications for Fall 2026 admission. Please check the specific program pages for the most up-to-date deadlines.
- What kind of career preparation do the German Studies graduate programs offer?
- The graduate programs are designed to provide excellent training for students pursuing both academic and non-academic careers. Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles with close faculty supervision.
Entry requirements
IELTS Academic6.5 overall, with 6.5 in writing and speaking, and 6.0 in reading and listening
TOEFL iBT90 overall, with 25 in writing and 25 in speaking (for tests completed before January 21, 2026)
International applicants are advised that due to funding restrictions, the Faculty of Arts is currently not accepting international applicants for PhD programs. Limited numbers of international applicants to MA programs and to the IcGS MA program can still be accepted. Test scores must be from tests completed on or after May 1, 2024. Official test scores must be sent directly from the testing agency to Waterloo's Office of the Registrar. Exemptions from English language testing may apply if you have studied in Canada or in an English-language school system for the four most recent years of full-time education and meet specific criteria.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are assessed based on domestic or international immigration status. An online Tuition Fee Estimator is available to provide an estimate of tuition and incidental fees for the student account. This estimator does not include other expenses like off-campus housing, groceries, or textbooks.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are assessed based on domestic or international immigration status. An online Tuition Fee Estimator is available to provide an estimate of tuition and incidental fees for the student account. This estimator does not include other expenses like off-campus housing, groceries, or textbooks.
LivingThe Tuition Fee Estimator does not provide estimates for living expenses such as off-campus housing, groceries, textbooks, equipment, or supplies.
The Tuition Fee Estimator provides an estimate based on the fall 2026 term start. It assumes you are beginning your degree program in the fall 2026 term. Estimates for winter or spring program starts are not available. If preliminary English language training is required, those costs are not included in the degree program estimate.
How to apply
1. Check Program Requirements and DeadlinesVisit the specific program page for details on admission requirements, including academic prerequisites and English language proficiency. Note that some programs may have extended deadlines for Fall 2026.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, which may include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and potentially a work sample or interview, depending on the program.
3. Complete the Application FormSubmit your application through the University of Waterloo's applicant portal. Ensure all sections are completed accurately.
4. Submit English Language Test Scores (if required)If you are not exempt, ensure your official English language test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) are sent directly from the testing agency to the Registrar's Office by the document deadline.
5. Complete Declaration of Academic ExperienceOnce you have applied, complete the Declaration of Academic Experience in the applicant portal. This will help confirm whether you need to provide an English language test score.
6. Await Admission DecisionAfter the application deadline and review period, you will be notified of the admission decision.
Frequently asked questions
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
For IELTS Academic, you need an overall score of 6.5, with 6.5 in writing and speaking, and 6.0 in reading and listening. For TOEFL iBT (taken before January 21, 2026), the requirement is 90 overall, with 25 in writing and 25 in speaking. Exemptions may apply if you have studied in Canada or an English-language school system for the last four years.
Are international students eligible for PhD programs in German Studies?
+
Due to funding restrictions, the Faculty of Arts is currently not accepting international applicants for PhD programs. However, limited numbers of international students can still be accepted into MA programs.
How can I estimate my tuition fees?
+
An online Tuition Fee Estimator is available to provide an estimate of tuition and incidental fees. This estimator is based on a Fall 2026 term start and does not include living expenses or costs for preliminary English language training.
What is the application deadline for Fall 2026 admission?
+
Some programs are still accepting applications for Fall 2026 admission. Please check the specific program pages for the most up-to-date deadlines.
What kind of career preparation do the German Studies graduate programs offer?
+
The graduate programs are designed to provide excellent training for students pursuing both academic and non-academic careers. Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles with close faculty supervision.