fb pixel

Selecting a Graduate Program

Selecting the right graduate program is an imperative part of student success. We’ve outlined some important steps to follow when choosing your program of interest.

Review the program's information

The Programs page on our website will link you to each program’s website. The program fact sheets contain valuable information about admission requirements. For specific questions about a program, you should contact the program chair.

Choosing a graduate program is a personal decision. Here are some tips and advice to help you find a program that is right for you:

  • Reflect on your personal passion for your chosen industry and whether you see yourself in this field long term
  • Lifestyle and Program Format. Consider whether a research-based*, or course-based program would be best for you 
  • Revise whether you meet the qualifications for admission
  • Research your options for financial aid, grants and loans

*research-based programs require a supervisor

Check your eligibility

If you are unsure that you meet a program’s admission requirements as stated in the program’s factsheet, you should contact the program chair to discuss your eligibility.

Academic qualifications: Most programs require a 4-year general or honours Bachelor’s degree to apply, with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.5 (70%) and no grade less than C+ in the last two years of full-time university study. Some programs may have additional criteria or higher standards.

Language requirements: Some programs require higher English Language Proficiency test scores than those stated in the general University of Winnipeg English Language Proficiency Policy. For all programs, you should consult the program fact sheet and discuss any concerns about your eligibility with the program chair.

Understand the role of a Graduate Supervisor and determine if you need one
The role of the Graduate Supervisor

The role of the Graduate Supervisor at the University of Winnipeg includes:

  • Being responsible for supervising and providing guidance on all aspects of a student’s thesis, practicum, or research program;
  • Staying informed of the student’s progress and preparing an annual report summarizing progress in research, clinical, or technical activities;
  • Ensuring that scientific research is conducted in a way that is effective and safe;
  • Reviewing and evaluating student theses and major research papers;
  • Attending all supervisory committee meetings as well as student thesis, clinical or technical practicum examinations.
Programs requiring a Graduate Supervisor prior to application

Generally, research-based programs require a supervisor for your thesis or practicum project. The Bioscience, Technology, and Public Policy program and the Environmental and Social Change program require that you find a supervisor and write a research proposal prior to being admitted. Supervisors are also required to students applying to the research-based Applied Computer Science and Society program. Applicants to the Master’s in Development Practice: Indigenous Development (MDP) program are not required to consult with or secure a supervisor before applying. Students in the MDP program are assigned an academic supervisor upon admission to the program.

While applicants in other programs are not obligated to find a supervisor before applying to a graduate program, it’s recommended to connect with faculty members in your program of interest ahead of time.

If you are unsure whether you need to find a supervisor prior to applying, you should contact the graduate program chair. If your program of interest does not require you to find a supervisor before applying, it is still recommended to connect with faculty members in your program of interest ahead of time.

Identifying and contacting potential Graduate Supervisors and faculty members

If you are required to find a supervisor prior to your application, you will need find a graduate supervisor. Prospective students who wish to apply to either The University of Winnipeg Graduate Studies Scholarship or the President’s Distinguished Graduate Student Scholarship are encouraged to connect with their graduate program chair or a prospective supervisor as those award applications require a letter from one or the other.

The first step is to browse the web pages of faculty members in your department to see which research projects interest you. Then you will need to contact individual professors to determine if they are taking on new graduate students.

Send a tailored, rather than generic inquiry. Explain why you are interested in working alongside that particular supervisor. Highlight similar research interests, and provide information about your research background. Attach a copy of your Curriculum Vitae (CV), and offer an opportunity for further discussion.

You may also consider contacting the Graduate Program Chair with a brief research proposal, and asking if they can recommend anyone in the program engaged in similar work.

It is always a good idea to reach out to the Graduate Program Chair before applying to any graduate program. They will be your main point of contact to answer questions about eligibility requirements, funding, or assistantship opportunities.

Identify your application timelines

Verify that the application timelines and program start dates align with your planning.

Most of our programs accept new students in the Fall and/or Winter terms. The application deadline for a Fall term start is February 1. The application deadline for a Winter term start is July 1.

For a Fall start date

Applications open: November 1

Application deadline: February 1

For a Winter start date

Applications open: November 1

Application deadline: July 1

For more information on program durations, fees, and start dates review the program fact sheets.