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Course-Based Master's Programs at the University of Guelph

    Build Specialized Skills. Advance Your Career.

    Our course-based master’s programs are designed to help you build specialized expertise, develop practical skills and advance your career. Many programs combine industry-informed curricula with hands-on and experiential learning opportunities, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge to meet evolving labour market demands and pursue career opportunities in Canada and around the world.

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    Find a Program That Fits Your Goals

    Explore course-based master’s programs across business, data and technology, engineering, health, science, agriculture, the humanities and more.

    • English (MA)
    • History – Tri-University Program (MA)
    • Integrated Humanities (MA)
    • Philosophy (MA)
    • Applied Molecular and Health Sciences (MAMHS)
    • Bioinformatics (MBNF)
    • Biomedical Sciences (MBS)
    • Biotechnology (MBIOT)
    • Human Health and Nutritional Sciences (MSc)
    • Medical Foundations (MMF)
    • Wildlife Biology (MWB)
    • Accounting (MPAcc)
    • Biotechnology (MBIOT)
    • Business Administration (MBA)
    • Financial Economics (MA)
    • Leadership (MA)
    • Management (MSc)
    • Marketing and Consumer Studies (MSc)
    • Project Management (MPM)
    • Real Estate (MRE)
    • Supply Chain Management (MSCM)
    • Tourism and Hospitality (MSc)
    • Cybersecurity and Threat Intelligence (MCTI)
    • Cybersecurity Leadership and Cyberpreneurship (MCLC)
    • Data Science (MDS)
    • Mathematics and Statistics (MSc)
    • Physics (MSc)
    • Toxicology (MTOX)
    • Engineering (MEng)
    • Engineering Management (MEM)
    • Animal Biosciences (MABS)
    • Capacity Development and Extension (MSc)
    • Environmental Sciences (MES)
    • Food, Agriculture, and Resource Economics (MFARE)
    • Food Safety and Quality Assurance (MSc)
    • Landscape Architecture (MLA)
    • Plant Agriculture (MPAg)
    • Rural Planning and Development (MPlan)
    • Rural Planning and Development (MSc)
    • Sustainable Agriculture (MSAg)
    • Applied Nutrition (MAN)
    • Conservation Leadership (MCL)
    • Criminal Justice (MCJ)
    • Criminal Justice and Public Policy (MA)
    • Development Practice and Global Justice (MDPGJ)
    • Geography (MA)
    • Geography (MSc)
    • Mental Health (MA)
    • Organizational Consulting (MOC)
    • Political Science (MA)
    • Psychotherapy (MP)
    • Public Issues Anthropology (MA)
    • Relational and Family Therapy (MRFT)
    • Sociology (MA)
    • Population Medicine (MSc)
    • Public Health (MPH)

    Why Choose a Course-Based Master’s at the University of Guelph?

    Specialized Expertise

    Build advanced knowledge and career-relevant skills at a university recognized for its strengths in agriculture, food, environmental sciences, animal health, business and technology.

    Hands-On Learning

    Many course-based master's programs integrate practical experiences such as internships, industry projects, fieldwork and applied research, giving you opportunities to put your knowledge into practice and develop skills relevant to your career.

    World-class Education

    Learn from accomplished faculty and practitioners while accessing the expertise, facilities and resources of a leading Canadian university.

    Industry Connections

    Gain valuable insights and expand your professional network through connections with industry professionals, employers and practitioners.

    Make an Impact

    Apply your knowledge and skills to tackle real-world challenges and make a meaningful difference in your field, organization or community.

    # 1 in Canada in Multiple Subjects
    2026 QS Rankings
    # 4 in the world for Veterinary Science
    2026 QS Rankings
    # 5 in Canada Among Mid-Sized Universities
    2027 Maclean’s University
    Top 6% of the world's business schools
    AACSB Accredited

    Tuition, Funding and Scholarships

    Course-based master's programs are generally self-funded. Students are responsible for covering tuition and living expenses. However, some programs offer entrance scholarships. If available, the type and amount of scholarships can be found on the program page.

    The University of Guelph also offers a wide range of scholarships and awards for students that may be available for eligible course-based master’s students during their studies. Students are encouraged to explore and apply for opportunities for which they qualify.

    Tuition fees vary by program. Explore tuition information and available funding opportunities to help plan your graduate education.

    Explore Tuition and Fees | Explore Financial Aid

    Admissions Requirements and Application Process

    Admission requirements and application deadlines vary by program. Before applying, review the academic requirements, required documents and deadlines for your program of interest on the program page.

    Our step-by-step application guide will help you navigate the process, from preparing your application to submitting your documents.

    Explore Admission Requirements
    How to Apply

    Hear from Our Students and Alumni

    Taylor Howson

    Biotechnology is a really interesting industry right now, with a lot of up-and-coming research, especially for those interested in work in sustainability, the environment, and climate change. The Master of Biotechnology program really opened my eyes to a range of career opportunities that I didn’t even know to look for. My hands-on experience doing my project at MetaCycler BioInnovations further solidified my passion for this field, providing me with practical skills and insights that have been invaluable in shaping my career path.

    Taylor Howson, AlumniR&D Technologist, Embassy Ingredients Ltd, Biotechnology Graduate (MBIOT ’24)
    Kathy Ha

    My experience in the Master of Biotechnology program played a meaningful role in shaping my career journey. The unique blend of scientific and business training, combined with the flexibility to explore my interests through a diverse range of courses, allowed me to develop practical, industry-relevant skills that continue to support me in my work. The placement opportunity was especially valuable, providing me real-world experience and a strong foundation for entering the industry.

    Kathy Ha, AlumniGlobal Study Manager, AstraZeneca Biotechnology Graduate (MBIOT '21)
    Close-up portrait of David smiling outside, dressed in a dress shirt, with tress in the background.

    The Master of Biotechnology program helped me become a strategic thinker who can translate science into real-world impact. With case-based learning and mentorship from pharma, genomics, and food industry leaders, I can communicate with stakeholders and advance ideas to actual products. I gained the skills companies look for—someone who bridges science and business to deliver commercial success.

    David Santos, AlumniChief Marketing Officer, Healthy Hydroponics InnoTech Inc., Biotechnology Graduate (MBIOT ’21)
    Portrait of Yesha Patel

    As I reflect on my journey through the master's program, I am immensely grateful for the opportunities it has offered me and the profound impact it has had on my intellectual and professional growth. I am thankful to the faculty of the engineering department at University of Guelph for their guidance throughout my M.Eng. program. From lectures to hands-on projects, every aspect of the program helped me to foster critical thinking, innovation, and collaboration to excel in my career.

    Yesha Patel, M.Eng., AlumniM.Eng. Graduate
    Portrait of Sara Bagherian

    Choosing to pursue my Master of Engineering at the University of Guelph was a vital step towards my dream of becoming a mechanical designer in the robotics industry. Through courses like Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing, undertaking a master's major project, and closely collaborating with industrial robots as a teaching assistant for the robotics systems course, I acquired the necessary skills for my current dream job.

    Sara Bagherian, M.Eng.Master of Engineering Graduate, Mechanical Engineering
    Maxime Laphong Tudo-Doan

    Location and program reputation were influential in my decision to study at the University of Guelph. The City of Guelph offers a comfortable environment that balances the calmness I need to focus on my studies and the vibrancy of a city in terms of culture, relationships, and exploration.

    Maxime Laphong Tudo-DoanMaster of Landscape Architecture alumni
    Minhajul Haque Minar

    The University of Guelph has unique and fully equipped laboratory facilities. Meanwhile, coursework will also help students learn the different disciplines.

    Minhajul Haque Minar, AlumniMaster of Engineering, 2020
    Nathaniel Hoffman

    After working in industry for a couple of years, I started to see the benefit of a well-rounded skill set in both scientific and business disciplines. The Master of Biotechnology program allowed me to develop this valuable skill set through courses taught by professors who have developed their own industry relationships.

    Nathaniel Hoffman, Alumni Process Support Specialist, Lallemand, Biotechnology Graduate (MBIOT ’20)
    Viola Halder

    I chose the Master of Biotechnology program at U of G because I have always been interested in biotechnology and I knew I wanted to pursue a career in it. I didn’t know whether I would enjoy research or industry-based jobs and this program gave me the opportunity to explore each option.

    Dr. Viola Halder, AlumniPostdoctoral Associate, Concordia University, Biotechnology Graduate (MBIOT ’18)

    Information for International Students

    Join a welcoming and diverse community at the University of Guelph, where you'll have opportunities to develop your expertise, gain new perspectives and prepare for your future career in Canada or around the world.

    Moving to a new country to pursue graduate studies is an exciting big step. That’s why, at U of G, we offer resources and support to assist you from preparing for your arrival to settling into your new community and making the most of your graduate experience even before the start of your program.

    New international master's students are guaranteed on-campus housing for the duration of their studies, provided they meet the application requirements and deadlines. Explore our housing options and eligibility requirements.

    Before You Arrive
    After You Arrive

    Work While You Study

    As an international student, you may be eligible to work in Canada while completing your studies, subject to immigration requirements. Learn more about work eligibility and opportunities on the Student Experience website.

    Work Opportunities After Graduation

    Many of our programs are eligible for Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), enabling international students to gain valuable Canadian work experience after graduation. For the most up-to-date information on PGWP eligibility and duration, please visit the IRCC website.

    Ready to Take the Next Step?

    Whether you are looking to advance your current career, transition into a new field, gain Canadian credentials and work experience, there’s a University of Guelph’s master’s program that can help you take the next step.

    Have questions? Contact us at gradapps@uoguelph.ca. We're here to help you navigate your next steps.

    Apply Now

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Course-based master's programs involves coursework and may include applied projects, capstone experiences, or other experiential learning opportunities. Some programs also offer the option to complete a major research paper, but a thesis is not required.

    Thesis-based programs focus on independent research under the supervision of a faculty advisor and require students to complete a thesis that contributes to knowledge in their field.

    Both pathways lead to a master's degree and provide opportunities to deepen your expertise, develop advanced skills and enhance your qualifications for career advancement or further study. The best choice depends on your academic interests, professional goals and preferred learning experience.

    Most course-based master's programs do not require applicants to secure a faculty advisor before applying. However, admission requirements vary by program, so we encourage you to review the specific requirements for your program of interest before submitting an application.

    Program duration varies depending on the degree, course requirements, and study format. Some programs can be completed in 10 months, while others take longer. Visit individual program pages for details.

    Course-based master's programs are generally self-funded, meaning students are responsible for tuition and living expenses. Some programs may offer entrance scholarships or other funding opportunities for eligible students.

    Funding availability and eligibility vary by program. We encourage you to review program-specific information and explore available scholarships.

    Some course-based master's programs offer flexible study options, including part-time, online, or hybrid delivery. Availability varies by program. Explore individual program pages to find a format that suits your needs.

    Yes! The University of Guelph welcomes applications from qualified international students. Admission requirements, tuition fees, and program availability may differ for international applicants.

    International students should also review current study permit requirements and post-graduation work permit eligibility, as eligibility varies by program and individual circumstances.

    Depending on the program and university, graduates of course-based master's programs may be eligible to apply for doctoral studies. However, some PhD programs require substantial research experience or a thesis-based master's degree.

    If you are considering doctoral studies, we encourage you to discuss your academic goals with the graduate program before applying.