Overview

The Legal Studies M.A. at Carleton University provides an advanced interdisciplinary framework for students to critically analyse the relationship between law and social change. This programme investigates how individuals interact with legal systems and the evolving nature of regulation within modern society. Students engage with diverse perspectives on nationhood, belonging, and the impact of law on various communities.

The curriculum is designed to foster a deep understanding of legal theory and practice through rigorous academic inquiry. Participants are encouraged to join active research communities and attend seminar series hosted by the Department of Law and Legal Studies. These opportunities allow for direct engagement with contemporary legal debates and scholarly innovation.

Why Legal Studies at Carleton University?

Carleton University offers a distinct "Capital Advantage" due to its strategic location in Ottawa. Students are situated in close proximity to the Supreme Court of Canada, Parliament, and numerous government departments. This environment provides unparalleled access to primary legal resources and policy-making institutions.

The institution is home to specialised research hubs, including the Jurisprudence Centre and the Graduate Culture Seminar. Furthermore, the university maintains strong links with various interest groups and social movements. These connections offer students unique insights into how legal and social change is pursued at both national and international levels.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: CAD 24427 per year
National fee: CAD 10061 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The programme offers multiple pathways, including coursework, a research essay, or a thesis. Modules may include:

Law and Social Transformation
Citizenship, Human Rights and Political Economy
Conflict Resolution
Gender, Sexuality and Identity
Crime Governance and Security
Globalization, International Law and Transnational Justice
Law, History, Culture and Humanities
Jurisprudence

Careers with Legal Studies

Graduates are prepared for diverse professional paths involving legal research, policy analysis, and social advocacy. The programme's focus on law and governance equips students for roles within government departments, international war crimes tribunals, and non-governmental organisations. Many alumni pursue careers related to judicial politics, public policing, or human rights protection.

The analytical skills developed during the course are highly valued in sectors dealing with international law and transnational justice. Additionally, the programme provides a strong foundation for those intending to pursue doctoral studies or academic research in legal theory and democratic history.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Theories of Law and Social Transformation

Legal Method and Social Inquiry

Law and Gender Relations

Law, Economy and Society

Law, Crime and Social Order

Law, State and Politics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-15 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

86

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Credits

5 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Ottawa, Canada

Disciplines

Legal Studies View 25 other Masters in Legal Studies in Canada

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Academic requirements

GPA

B+

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

86

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

An honours bachelor’s degree, or equivalent, in a relevant field of study with at least a B+ standing.

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

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Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Carleton University and/or in Canada, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

24427 CAD / year

≈ 24427 CAD / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

10061 CAD / year

≈ 10061 CAD / year

Additional Details

Ontario Tuition Fee: 8317 CAD per year

Living costs

Ottawa

Canada

1168 - 1925 CAD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Legal Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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