Germanic and Slavic Studies

The Department of Germanic and Slavic Studies has three programs leading to an MA degree in Russian: The courses-only option, research paper option, or thesis option. Admission and degree requirements are outlined in the following information

Admission Requirements

• The minimum requirements for admission to the MA program in Russian normally include:
• An Honours (four-year) Bachelor's degree or its equivalent in Russian with at least a B standing (75%);
• Three letters of reference, at least two of which must be from academic sources;
• Proof of competency in English (if applicable). A score of at least550 (213 on the computerized version) is required in the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL); 50 in each section, and 4.0 on the TWE. (See Graduate Studies Calendar - Academic Regulations - English Language Proficiency Certification for other acceptable tests of English)

The deadline for applications to the Master's program is normally February 1; however, the Department may accept applications after this date. Please contact the Department to discuss alternate deadline dates.

Students who do not meet the requirements outlined above may be considered for admission to a transitional, probationary or qualifying program depending on their academic background. (See Graduate Studies Calendar - Academic Regulations - Categories of Admission to the Master's Program)

Degree Requirements

Students in the MA program in Russian may choose either the courses-only option, thesis option, or the research paper option. Degree requirements are as follows:

Courses-Only Option

• RUSS 600 (Methods of Research)
• At least seven other graduate courses with a minimum weight of 0.5 units each. These courses must also require a substantial piece of research (project or essay).
• Candidates must obtain a minimum overall average of 75% in the courses presented in fulfillment of the degree requirements. 

Thesis Option

• Russian 600 (Methods of Research)
• At least four other graduate courses (all graduate courses are 0.50 units)
• Candidates must obtain a minimum overall average of 75% in the courses presented in fulfilment of the degree requirements
• MA thesis - (80-100 pages)

Master's Research Paper

• Russian 600
• At least six other graduate courses
• Candidates must obtain a minimum overall average of 75% in the courses presented in fulfilment of the degree requirements
• Master's Research Paper - (30-40 pages)

A Master's Research Paper consists of an in-depth study of an approved topic; the research paper may grow out of a formal course; but cannot be an expansion of a paper for which the student has received credit; the research paper will be between 30 and 40 pages and written in accordance with the MLA Handbook; the research paper will demonstrate that the student has a thorough knowledge of the subject matter and is familiar with the major research related to it. The research paper is read by the research supervisor and one other faculty member. There is no oral examination.