UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO · CANADA
Master of Arts in Sociology
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
The Master of Arts in Sociology program offers two distinct pathways for students: the Master's Research Paper (MRP) plan and the Thesis plan. This program focuses on developing advanced sociological knowledge and research skills. Students will engage with complex social issues, theories, and methodologies. The program is designed to prepare graduates for further doctoral studies or careers in research, policy analysis, and community engagement.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- International students whose first language is not English must provide proof of proficiency. Accepted tests include IELTS Academic with a minimum overall score of 6.5 (6.5 writing, 6.5 speaking, 6.0 reading, 6.0 listening) or TOEFL iBT with a minimum overall score of 90 (25 writing, 25 speaking for tests completed before January 21, 2026). Tests taken prior to May 1, 2024 are not accepted.
- How can I estimate my tuition fees?
- Tuition fees are assessed based on your international immigration status. The University of Waterloo offers a Tuition Fee Estimator on its website to provide an estimate of tuition and incidental fees for the 2026/2027 academic year. This estimate does not include living expenses or textbooks.
- What are the admission pathways for the Master of Arts in Sociology program?
- The Master of Arts in Sociology program offers two pathways: the Master's Research Paper (MRP) plan and the Thesis plan. Both pathways focus on developing advanced sociological knowledge and research skills.
- What are the application deadlines?
- Application deadlines vary, and some programs may have extended deadlines for the Fall 2026 intake. It is essential to check the specific program page for the most up-to-date information on application periods and document submission deadlines.
- What documents are required for the application?
- Required application materials can vary by program. It is recommended to check the specific program page for details on necessary documents and to prepare them in advance. You may also need to complete a Declaration of Academic Experience to confirm if an English language test score is required.
Entry requirements
IELTS Academic6.5 overall, 6.5 writing, 6.5 speaking, 6.0 reading, 6.0 listening
TOEFL iBT90 overall, 25 in writing, 25 in speaking (for tests completed before January 21, 2026); 4.5 overall, 5 in writing, 5 in speaking (for tests completed on or after January 21, 2026)
You need to provide an English language test score if your first language is NOT English AND your four most recent years of full-time education have NOT been in an English-language school system. Exemptions may apply if you have studied in Canada and your first language is English, or if you are a Francophone Canadian, or if your four most recent years of full-time education were in an English-language school system. Official test scores must be sent by the testing agency directly to Waterloo's Office of the Registrar. Tests taken prior to May 1, 2024 do not fulfill requirements. IELTS One Skill Retake results are accepted.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees are assessed based on your international immigration status. A Tuition Fee Estimator is available on the University of Waterloo website to provide an estimate of tuition and incidental fees. This estimate does not include other expenses such as off-campus housing, groceries, or textbooks.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees are assessed based on your domestic residency status. A Tuition Fee Estimator is available on the University of Waterloo website to provide an estimate of tuition and incidental fees.
LivingThe Tuition Fee Estimator does not provide estimates for living expenses such as off-campus housing, groceries, or textbooks.
The Tuition Fee Estimator provides an estimate based on the most recent tuition rates approved by the Board of Governors (2026/2027) and assumes a Fall 2026 program start. Additional costs for English language training programs are not included in the degree program estimate.
How to apply
1. Check Program DeadlinesVisit the specific program page for application deadlines, as some programs may have extended them.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents and prepare any required elements such as work samples or information for an interview, as these can vary by program.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit your graduate studies application through the applicant portal.
4. Complete Declaration of Academic ExperienceOnce you have applied, complete the Declaration of Academic Experience in the applicant portal to confirm if you need to provide an English language test score.
5. Submit English Language Test Scores (if required)If required, ensure your official English language test scores are sent directly from the testing agency to Waterloo's Office of the Registrar by the program's document deadline. Tests taken prior to May 1, 2024 are not accepted.
Frequently asked questions
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
International students whose first language is not English must provide proof of proficiency. Accepted tests include IELTS Academic with a minimum overall score of 6.5 (6.5 writing, 6.5 speaking, 6.0 reading, 6.0 listening) or TOEFL iBT with a minimum overall score of 90 (25 writing, 25 speaking for tests completed before January 21, 2026). Tests taken prior to May 1, 2024 are not accepted.
How can I estimate my tuition fees?
+
Tuition fees are assessed based on your international immigration status. The University of Waterloo offers a Tuition Fee Estimator on its website to provide an estimate of tuition and incidental fees for the 2026/2027 academic year. This estimate does not include living expenses or textbooks.
What are the admission pathways for the Master of Arts in Sociology program?
+
The Master of Arts in Sociology program offers two pathways: the Master's Research Paper (MRP) plan and the Thesis plan. Both pathways focus on developing advanced sociological knowledge and research skills.
What are the application deadlines?
+
Application deadlines vary, and some programs may have extended deadlines for the Fall 2026 intake. It is essential to check the specific program page for the most up-to-date information on application periods and document submission deadlines.
What documents are required for the application?
+
Required application materials can vary by program. It is recommended to check the specific program page for details on necessary documents and to prepare them in advance. You may also need to complete a Declaration of Academic Experience to confirm if an English language test score is required.