MA
Candidates for the MA degree must satisfactorily complete, within one academic year (3 terms), the coursework (Fall and Winter terms) and the Major Research Project (MRP) followed by the Oral Examination (Summer term).
- 18 credits of coursework, including SPTH 6105 (3.0), at least 3 credits from a course “housed” in the program, at least 12 credits from courses with the SPTH prefix, and at least 3 credits in a “stream” other than the student’s primary stream
- The Major Research Project
- The Oral Examination
* A one-term (half-year) course generally corresponds to 3 credits.
* A maximum of 6 credits may be taken as a Directed Study (SPTH 6001).
* No more than 6 credits should be taken with a single faculty member.
PhD
Candidates for the PhD degree must satisfactorily complete, within six academic years (18 terms), the coursework (years 1 and 2), the Comprehensive Examination (years 2 and 3), the proposal (year 3), and the dissertation followed by the Oral Examination (defence).
- 24 credits of coursework: 6 credits of core coursework—SPTH 6106 (3.0) in year 1 and SPTH 6107 (3.0) in year 3—and 18 credits of non-core coursework, including at least 3 credits “housed” in the program, 12 credits from courses with the SPTH prefix, and at least 3 credits in a “stream” other than the student’s primary stream.
- Comprehensive Examination: a demonstration of suitable comprehensive proficiency in general areas of Social and Political Thought relevant to the candidate’s program of study as determined by the candidate’s supervisory committee.
- Dissertation Proposal. The dissertation proposal can be submitted only upon the successful completion of all coursework and the comprehensive examination. The dissertation proposal must be approved by the Supervisory Committee, the Graduate Program Director, and the Faculty of Graduate Studies (in that order) at least six months prior to the PhD Oral Examination.
- Submission of Dissertation and Oral Examination. Dissertations should adhere to the format and requirements set forth in the guidelines and criteria provided by FGS.
* A one-term (half-year) course generally corresponds to 3 credits.
* A maximum of 6 credits may be taken as a Directed Study (SPTH 6001).
* No more than 6 credits should be taken with a single faculty member.
Learn More
The Graduate Program in Social & Political Thought at York is an exciting environment to pursue innovative, socially engaging, career-ready education. Contact our Graduate Program Assistant to learn more.