The MSc program generally requires a minimum of two years of full-time study with the first eight months devoted primarily to coursework. Masters students may choose to complete their degree requirements through part-time study. You will need to declare whether you have chosen part-time or full-time studies. Part-time students should be aware that they are not eligible for UBC scholarships or awards.

UBC policy establishes a five year time limit for the completion of a Masters program, for both full-time and part-time students. If you have questions about extensions or leaves, please click here (Extensions) or here (Leaves of Absence).

The following is a sample two-year timeline for a full-time student. Please note it is not necessary to complete your program in two years – you have up to five years in which to complete your degree. The time points for applying for funding will vary depending on the nature of funding needed (operating funds vs. fellowship assistance) and funding agency deadlines. The important message is that funding should be sought as early as possible.

Sample MSc Timeline:

Prior to Admission
Meet with individual faculty members & identify potential supervisor.

Identify research topic area.

Apply for graduate fellowships, if eligible.
Year 1 Term 1 (Sept to Dec)
Complete Coursework:

SPPH 400 Statistics for Health Research

SPPH 502 Epidemiological Methods 1

SPPH 507 Research in Progress

Electives

Meet with Supervisor
Apply for Awards
Year 1 Term 2 (Jan to Apr)
Complete Coursework:

SPPH 500 Analytic Methods in Epidemiological Research

One of the following:

SPPH 503

SPPH 506

SPPH 519

Electives

Define Thesis Topic

Prepare Thesis Proposal

Begin to seek additional committee members
Year 1, Summer Term (May to Aug)
Complete Coursework

Electives (if needed)

Finalize Thesis Proposal

Present to Thesis Screening Panel (if space is available)

Begin work for thesis (ethics applications, data gatherings)
Year 2, Term 1(Sept to Apr)
Complete Coursework (if needed)

Continue Thesis Research
Year 2, Term 1(Jan to Apr)
Complete Coursework (if needed)

Complete Thesis Research

Begin Writing Thesis
Year 2, Summer Term(May to Aug)
Complete Thesis Writing

Complete Final Oral Examination

Submit Thesis to the Faculty of
Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies

Apply to Graduate