For the most accurate and up to date information on application deadlines, language tests and other admission requirements, please visit the specific requirements webpage.
MA in Translation Studies or equivalent, with a minimum average of B+ (75%). Applicants are required to submit a one- or two-page summary of their proposed research project. Applicants are also required to respond to a questionnaire concerning their background preparation.
Students with a master's containing a translation component but which is not equivalent to a master's in translation studies may be considered for admission at the master's level, with the possibility of transferring into the doctoral program after four courses, if they obtain an average of A- (80%).
Students enrolled in the master's program in Translation Studies at the University of Ottawa who have obtained excellent results may exceptionally be admitted into the doctoral program without a master's thesis. Please note that the minimal admission average requirements for the doctoral program must also be met. To take advantage of this option, they must: a) obtain A- average in six master's courses, and b) submit a major research paper of about 30 pages (TRA 7998). A committee will evaluate the research potential of the paper. Admission will be dependent on the availability of a thesis supervisor in the applicant's area of research interest.
Transfer from Master's to PhD
In exceptional circumstances, it is possible to transfer from the MA program at the School of Translation and Interpretation (STI) directly into the PhD program under the following conditions:
- Completion of the 3 mandatory MA courses, plus one more MA course, with a grade of A (85%) in each course;
- Completion of a 40-page research paper (TRA 7998) under the supervision of a professor who is the potential PhD thesis supervisor;
- Written recommendation for transfer from the supervisor of the paper and from the Graduate Studies Committee.
The transfer must take place within sixteen months of initial enrollment in the master’s. Students permitted to transfer will complete a total of 8 courses (24 units), 6 courses while enrolled in the master’s and 2 while enrolled in the PhD. Following transfer, the following requirements must be met: 2 courses (6 units), the comprehensive exam, the thesis proposal and the thesis.
Language Requirements
Students must meet one of the following requirements:
- Proficiency in English and French. Knowledge of a third language will be an asset.
or
- Proficiency in English and another language. In this case, a good passive knowledge of French is required.
or
- Proficiency in French and another language. In this case, a good passive knowledge of English is required.
The School of Translation and Interpretation (STI) reserves the right to test the linguistic knowledge of applicants.
Admission Procedure
Applications for admission are reviewed by the Graduate Studies Committee of the School of Translation and Interpretation, and must also meet the general requirements in effect for graduate studies. In addition to completing our on-line application and paying the application fee to the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre, students must also assemble all relevant documentation and forward the complete application package to the director of the School of Translation and Interpretation. Applications will not be processed without the application fee and the complete file.
To find the application deadline, please check the “program-specific requirements” under Application Procedures and Information at the following address: www.grad.uottawa.ca/apply.
Collaborative Program
The School of Translation and Interpretation is a participating unit in the collaborative program in Canadian Studies (PhD level only). This program has been established for students wishing to enrich their training in Translation by including an interdisciplinary component in Canadian Studies. The seminar (CDN 6520 or CDN 6910) fits into the departmental course requirements and does not add to the number of courses required for the PhD in Translation Studies.
To be admitted to the program, students must be enrolled in or have successfully completed at least one graduate course in history with Canadian content. The mention will be added to the diploma of students who pass the seminar (CDN 6520 or CDN 6910) and successfully defend a thesis on a Canadian topic in Translation.
If you’re applying for an English-language program and have not completed at least three years of full-time study in an institution where English is the only language of instruction (aside from in language courses) in a country where English is an official language, you must submit your official score in one of the following language tests. The official results must be sent directly to us online from the test centre.
In order to be considered for a program offered in English at the University of Ottawa, you must demonstrate that you are sufficiently proficient in the language to follow a postsecondary academic program. Please note that citizenship is not considered when evaluating English proficiency. To show that your English proficiency is at the academic level required for university studies, provide proof of either:
- Postsecondary studies in English; or
- Last three years of high school taken in English (Grades 10, 11 or 12)
Remember: Language requirements are not based on citizenship. They are based on your country of study.