COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Arts (MA) program in Cultural Studies at Queen’s University offers two distinct streams tailored to different academic and professional goals: a course-based MA and a thesis-based MA. All students are initially admitted into the course-based stream, which is designed to be completed in approximately ten months. This stream requires students to complete four one-term courses, each worth 3.0 units, along with CUST 802 Cultural Studies Colloquium and CUST 850 Capstone Project, which provides an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical or research-oriented project. Students who demonstrate interest and meet the eligibility requirements may apply to transfer into the thesis-based stream after successfully completing two courses. The thesis-based MA is structured to be completed in two years and emphasizes independent research and scholarly inquiry. In addition to the four one-term courses and the colloquium, students are required to produce a 20,000–25,000 word thesis or equivalent project (CUST 899), supervised by a faculty member and evaluated according to departmental guidelines. This stream allows students to develop advanced research skills, critical thinking, and the ability to contribute original insights to the field of Cultural Studies. Together, the two streams provide flexibility for students seeking either an intensive, course-focused experience or a deeper, research-driven program.