ORPAS – McMaster University

Last updated: October 11, 2022

University program information changes regularly. Refer to the application and the university’s website for the most up-to-date details.

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Faculty of Health Sciences

Since its formal establishment in 1973, the Faculty of Health Sciences has been committed to community‑oriented, self‑directed, interdisciplinary, small‑group, problem‑based learning – the concept known worldwide as the “McMaster Approach”.

John Evans, founding Dean, developed this concept. It evokes worldwide attention and is a hallmark of McMaster’s integrated Faculty of Health Sciences.

The Faculty is composed of the following educational programs:

  • nursing,
  • medicine,
  • physician assistant,
  • midwifery,
  • occupational therapy,
  • physiotherapy and
  • speech-language pathology, among others.

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The School of Rehabilitation Science

In this section:

Mission

The School of Rehabilitation Science aims to provide exemplary educational programs for students in:

  • occupational therapy,
  • physiotherapy,
  • speech-language pathology,
  • rehabilitation science and
  • health management.

We will contribute to the advancement of health care in general, and rehabilitation science in particular, through excellence in collaborative research and service initiatives.

Vision

The School of Rehabilitation Science aims to provide outstanding leadership in rehabilitation science at the national and international levels, through continued expansion of innovation in education and research, as well as increased commitment to service partnerships with clients and rehabilitation providers.

The School of Rehabilitation Science offers numerous programs:

  • Master of Science degree program in Occupational Therapy (MSc [OT])
  • Master of Science degree program in Physiotherapy (MSc [PT])
  • Master of Science degree program in Speech-Language Pathology (MSc [SLP])
  • Master of Science and Doctorate in Philosophy in Rehabilitation Science (MSc [RS] and PhD [RS])
    • Within the MSc (RS), there is a course‑based stream that is available online and can be completed on a part‑time basis.
  • Dual degree option MSc (OT)/PhD or MSc (PT)/PhD in Rehabilitation Science
  • Master of Health Management (MHM) in collaboration with the DeGroote School of Business

Do not use ORPAS if you wish to apply to the following programs:

  • Research‑oriented rehabilitation science graduate programs (Thesis master’s, Course‑based master’s and PhD)
  • Dual degree (MSc [OT]/PhD or MSc [PT]/PhD) in Rehabilitation Science
  • MHM Program

Northern Studies Stream (NSS)

The NSS was established in 1991 to specifically address the shortage of OTs, PTs and SLPs in Northwestern Ontario through various recruitment and retention initiatives. This is a joint initiative between McMaster University and NOSM. NOSM coordinates student placements across Northern Ontario for a multitude of health disciplines.

The goals of the current NSS are to increase:

  • student awareness and knowledge of the health determinants that are unique to Northern and rural communities.
  • student awareness of health issues, culture and health practices relevant to Indigenous peoples living in Northern and rural Ontario.
  • student skills in addressing professional practice issues while engaging in clinical education and living in a Northern and/or rural community.

With 30 years of documented success, the current NSS is focused on providing clinical education opportunities for students across Northern Ontario.

Each year, students in the McMaster MSc Programs can apply for clinical education placements in Northern Ontario.

Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit and Métis) Applicants

The Faculty of Health Sciences at McMaster University acknowledges the barriers and challenges for Indigenous students accessing postgraduate education programs and opportunities. The MSc Programs have a Facilitated Indigenous Admission Program (FIAP) for individuals with Indigenous North American (First Nation, Inuit or Métis) ancestry.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (in 2015) called on all levels of government to:

  • Increase the number of Indigenous professionals working in the health care field.
  • Ensure the retention of Indigenous health care providers in Indigenous communities.
  • Provide cultural competency training for all health care professionals.

These principles guide the MSc Programs in working toward an environment for all students, patients and educators to create focused learning opportunities of cultural awareness and humility.

References: Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, United Nations; National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada., Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada., & United Nations. (2015). Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action.

Applicants wishing to apply through FIAP must:

  • meet the minimum program admission requirements,
  • complete the self-identification application and
  • apply to the program through ORPAS following the program-specific application process (i.e., indicate that you are applying through the FIAP).

The deadline for applying through FIAP is the same as the application deadline for the Program.

Read more about FIAP.

Email the Indigenous Health Learning Lodge for help applying through FIAP.

Black Equity Stream

The Faculty of Health Sciences at McMaster University acknowledges the barriers and challenges of Black students accessing postgraduate education programs and opportunities. The MSc Programs have a Black Equity Stream for individuals who self-identify as Black.

To be eligible, the applicant must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who self-identifies as Black, including:

  • Black African,
  • Black Caribbean/West Indian,
  • Black North American,
  • Black Latinx and/or
  • a multi-racial student who has and identifies with their Black ancestry.

Black applicants wishing to apply for the Black Equity Stream must:

  1. Apply to the program through ORPAS following the program-specific application process (i.e., indicate that you are applying through the Facilitated Black Admissions Program).

  2. Complete the separate Black Equity Stream application, if invited by McMaster.
    • Applicants meeting the admission criteria, who receive an email invitation to KIRA interviews and pay the KIRA fees, will receive an email containing a link to the Black Equity Stream application. Applicants wishing to be considered for this stream must access the link and complete the application by the due date outlined in the email.
    • At the time of application to the Black Equity Stream, applicants will have the option to complete a personal statement (maximum 250 words) to highlight one or more of the following:
      • Their interest in applying through the Black Equity Stream;
      • Their reasons for choosing this profession;
      • Circumstances that may have impacted their experiences to date; and/or
      • Any other information pertaining to their personal/professional contexts they wish to share.
    • If applicants choose to complete the personal statement, it will be reviewed by the Admissions Committee and KIRA interview assessors, which consists of an interprofessional panel of majority Black faculty and clinicians. The statement will be used to provide context to applicants’ Kira interview responses and to ensure an opportunity for their voices to be heard.

Application Information

Transcripts

The originating institution(s) must send official transcripts of all university and college degree work directly to ORPAS.

If you completed courses outside of Canada (including exchange program courses, intersession courses, summer courses, online courses, etc.), you must request a legend from the university that explains the grading scale.

Note: All non-English documentation must be accompanied by an official English translation completed by a certified translator.

Assessment of International Transcripts and Exchange Work

If you have international transcripts (excluding US transcripts) you must submit to ORPAS:

  1. Original transcripts sent by originating institution(s).
  2. A notarized English copy of the appropriate diploma or degree awarded.

Whether you are a Canadian or non-Canadian applicant, you must have your international transcript assessed by World Education Services (WES) if:

  • You have not met the minimum course number criteria using your Canadian or US data.
  • You require inclusion of your international education data.

If a WES evaluation includes a copy of your official transcript, you are not required to request a transcript from your registrar’s office.

McMaster University Application Fees (for Both Domestic and International Applicants)

You will be charged a $100 university fee for each program you apply to at the School of Rehabilitation Science.

E.g., If you apply to only 1 program, you will be charged a $100 university fee. If you apply to 2 programs (e.g., OT and PT), you will be charged $200.

Program Requirements

All students are required to comply with the program requirements (academic, non-academic and clinical) identified by the programs.

Example program requirements include, but are not limited to:

  • Health screening
  • Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) (Police Record Check)
  • CPR Level C or Basic Life Support certification
  • N-95 fit testing and training
  • Other health and safety requirements

You are responsible for ensuring your own training and program requirements are current.

You are required to comply with the identified program requirements to maintain your place in the program. We provide further detailed information upon acceptance of the offer of admission.

Note: Offers will be considered conditional until all program requirements are submitted.

Admission Process

Final approval of offers of admission is granted by the School of Graduate Studies (SGS).

If you apply to the McMaster MSc Programs:

  • You will be notified of the admission decision by email. Consult ORPAS Important Dates for the offers of admission date.
  • You accept the procedures and methods by which applicants are chosen. You are required to comply with all instructions and meet the deadlines to qualify your application.

The admission process undergoes annual review and is subject to change. We reserve the right to change the admission and registration requirements at any time without notice. We will make every effort to inform you of any changes in a timely manner.

Registration in McMaster University’s MSc Program implies that you accept the academic regulations of the SGS and the School of Rehabilitation Science, in addition to the program objectives and methods of evaluation.

Important: If you have not completed your degree or have course work in progress, all offers are considered conditional until final transcripts are submitted and reviewed for conditions. You must submit proof of completed or in-progress degrees and course work by June 30, 2023.

Deferral of Accepted Offers

We do not grant deferrals of admission.

Advanced Standing and Transfer

There is no provision for advanced standing or transfer into the programs.

This is because the programs begin in the fall of Year 1 and continue for 2 full years. You must successfully complete all courses and clinical placements to advance from semester to semester and to complete the program.

Fraudulent Applications

If any application information is discovered to be false or misleading, or concealed or withheld, the application will be deemed invalid and will be rejected immediately.

Students who are already admitted and registered must withdraw from the university and the case may be submitted to the McMaster University Office of Academic Integrity.

Deposit

If you accept an offer of admission to McMaster University, you must remit a non-refundable deposit paid online by credit card or online banking (domestic and international applicants: $500).

The amount of this deposit will be deducted from your tuition after registration and entry into the program.

The deposit is not refunded if you fail to register in the program.

Read more about eligibility and submission requirements for School of Rehabilitation Science programs.

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MSc Occupational Therapy (OT) Program

In this section:

MSc (OT) Program Information

We offer a 24‑month, full‑time, course‑based program in OT leading to an MSc (OT) degree.

Our goal is to prepare occupational therapists with the requisite knowledge, skills and professional behaviours to practice in the emerging realities of the health care system, including the broader societal communities.

You will explore the concepts of occupation and health, while incorporating the themes of family, society, culture and environment within the context of client‑centred practice.

MSc (OT) Curriculum

We prepare you to be eligible to register to practice occupational therapy and our program meets professional accreditation and practice standards. The MSc (OT) curriculum utilizes a self‑directed, Problem‑Based Learning (PBL) philosophy.

You will complete course work, clinical placements and an independent project that explores the complexities of evidence‑based practice. These evidence‑based practice projects are evaluated through faculty assessment and presentation at a symposium widely attended by the academic and clinical communities. All courses are specific to this curriculum.

The minimum expectation is the completion of all course work across 2 extended study years, from September to July (Year 1) and from September to September (Year 2):

  • Year 1 introduces you to the fundamentals of contemporary Canadian occupational therapy practice.
  • Year 2 provides opportunities for developing more complex skills and preparing for entry to practice as conscientious, autonomous professionals.

Throughout the program, you gain experience across many client populations and in multiple settings.

Program Structure

The program is organized into 5 university‑based terms of study, with 4 clinical placement courses throughout the curriculum:

  • Term 1: Wellness, Health and Occupation
  • Term 2: Person, Environment and Occupation
  • Term 3: Disability, Development and Occupation
  • Term 4: Complexities of Practice I: Children, Youth & Adults
  • Term 5: Complexities of Practice II: Older Adults & Transition to Practice

Student performance is evaluated on a regular basis throughout the MSc (OT) Program using a variety of evaluation tools consistent with the principles of problem‑based and self‑directed learning.

Read more about the MSc (OT) curriculum.

Professional Clinical Placements

Our program has rich community partnerships with sites and occupational therapists in the McMaster OT catchment area and in Northern Ontario through the Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM). Our program also has access to some sites outside of the McMaster catchment area that a placement can be requested from through an interuniversity system.

Placement access in all Canadian OT programs is based on a supply model: Occupational therapists and sites will determine when and if they are able to accept student occupational therapists.

The placements provided for each specific placement course form the resource pool or supply available. Filling the resource pool relies on placements in the McMaster in-catchment stream, out-of-catchment stream and Northern Ontario stream, collectively. McMaster’s placement resource pool reflects the practice of OT in Canada.

The Director of Clinical Education of the MSc (OT) Program is responsible for arranging all clinical education placements. You may be required to complete some clinical education units in Northwestern Ontario or elsewhere outside of the McMaster catchment area.

McMaster’s OT in-catchment area consists of sites in many geographical areas, all of which may form the resource pool for each placement course. Therefore, you are also expected to travel outside of Hamilton, Ontario, for mandatory teaching sessions and clinical placements. You are responsible for your own transportation and associated costs to complete program requirements.

As the resource pool reflects the practice of OT in Canada, some placements may be located in rural, under-serviced and remote areas. In certain placement streams, external funding may be available.

MSc (OT) Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements

You are eligible to apply in your fourth year of undergraduate work or after graduating from a 4‑year baccalaureate degree (minimum of 120 units/credits), or equivalent, from a recognized university with a minimum second-class B+ standing (77% or 3.3/4.0 or 9.0/12.0) in the final 2 years (or 60 units of university study).

Grade calculations (GPA) are based on the reverse chronological order of courses, as listed on the submitted official transcript(s).

Our MSc (OT) Program utilizes the sub-GPA, as calculated by ORPAS, to determine top-ranked applicants invited to the Kira Talent interview process. Some exceptions may apply, such as applicants with graduate work, international applicants and applicants with an honours degree from a college. In these cases, we manually calculate the sub-GPA. Evaluators are provided with anti-bias and diversity training prior to evaluating applicants.

Note: You may apply in the fourth year of your degree program but must provide proof that you have completed the degree requirements prior to June 30, 2023. We will consider academic achievement on graduate courses on a case-by-case basis.

As noted in the McMaster Graduate Calendar, admission is competitive and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Final admission decisions rest with the Graduate Admissions and Studies Committee for each faculty. The admission decision is not subject to appeal.

English-language Requirements

You must be proficient in spoken and written English. If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence of English-language proficiency. 

The only exception to this requirement is for those who have completed an entire university degree in:

  • Australia,
  • Canada,
  • New Zealand,
  • the United Kingdom or
  • the USA.

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is acceptable evidence for English-language proficiency.

TOEFL requirements:

  • You must achieve a score of 600 (written), 250 (computer) or 92 (iBT) on the TOEFL test (Reading-22, Speaking-24, Listening-24, Writing‑22).
  • The TOEFL score must not be more than 2 years old at the time of the ORPAS application deadline.

The TOEFL code for McMaster is 0936. The department code for MSc (OT) is 44.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) (Academic) is also acceptable as evidence.

IELTS requirements:

  • You must achieve a minimum overall score of 6.5, with at least 5.5 in each section.
  • IELTS must send results directly to McMaster University.
  • Scores that are more than 2 years old are not valid.

MSc (OT) Application Process

Canadian Permanent Residents (Landed Immigrants)

If you have permanent resident (landed immigrant) status, you must submit the following required documentation to ORPAS to ensure your application is complete:

International Applicants

If you are an international applicant, you must submit the following required documentation to ORPAS to ensure your application is complete:

MSc (OT) Selection Method

We admit approximately 67 students (including a limited number of international students between the OT, PT and SLP programs) into the MSc (OT) Program annually.

Online Interview

We invite all applicants who have met the minimum academic requirements (up to a maximum of 800 applicants) to participate in an online interview (using the Kira Talent – Video Interview Platform).

The online interview fee is $55 CAD (non-refundable), which you must pay before you can complete the interview.

Eligible applicants will receive an email from the MSc (OT) Program inviting them to complete their payment for the online interview (February 2023), including a link to pay the non-refundable fee.

Once the online interview fee is received, we will provide you with a link and notify you of the time frame that you must complete your online interview in. No alternative dates or arrangements are available for the online interview. It must be conducted within the time frame given.

To complete the interview, you will need a computer with a webcam, microphone and internet connection.

All eligible applicants who have completed the online interview and have met all academic requirements will be ranked based on their interview score (75%) and sub-GPA (25%), as calculated by ORPAS or the Program.

SGS grants final approval of offers of admission.

MSc (OT) Accreditation

The MSc (OT) Program is accredited by the Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT).

MSc (OT) Regulation of Practice

All occupational therapists in Canada must be registered with the appropriate provincial regulatory organization to practice in that province. Each regulatory body has a separate and distinct registration process; however, in most circumstances, a degree in occupational therapy and successfully completing the CAOT national certification examination are required.

In Ontario, the College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario (COTO) can grant a provisional practicing certificate of registration to graduates from the MSc (OT) Program until they write and pass the CAOT examination, at which point a general practicing certificate is granted.

MSc (OT) Contact Information

SRS Admissions Office – MSc Occupational Therapy (OT) Program
School of Rehabilitation Science
McMaster University
Institute for Applied Health Sciences, Room 403
1400 Main Street West
Hamilton ON  L8S 1C7

OT Telephone: 289-659-3787
OT Email: askOT@mcmaster.ca

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MSc Physiotherapy (PT) Program

In this section:

MSc (PT) Program Information

We offer a 24-month, full-time, course-based program in PT leading to an MSc (PT) degree.

Our goal is to prepare graduates with the knowledge, skills, attitudes and professional behaviours needed to practice as entry-level, evidence-based physiotherapy clinicians in a variety of Canadian health care and community settings.

MSc (PT) Curriculum

The program is composed of:

  • university-based course work,
  • clinical placements (clinical education courses) in a variety of practice settings, including role emerging settings, and
  • completion of a research and evidence-based project.

All courses are specific to the MSc (PT) curriculum, and all courses are required.

Program Structure

  • Year 1 introduces you to the foundations and fundamentals of: Evidence-based and professional practice; musculoskeletal, cardiorespiratory and neurological physiotherapy practice; and optimizing physical function and mobility across the lifespan.
  • In Year 2, you develop advanced knowledge, skills and attitudes through a focus on multi-system dysfunction, emerging roles, professional competency roles and professional transition to independent practice. You can also complete physiotherapy-related elective courses.

The MSc (PT) Program integrates fundamentals, theory, skills and evidence across 5 units:

  • Unit 1: Foundations of Physiotherapy Practice
  • Unit 2: Essentials of Physiotherapy Practice
  • Unit 3: Optimizing Physical Function and Mobility Across the Lifespan: Multi-system Dysfunction
  • Unit 4: Optimizing Physical Function and Mobility Across the Lifespan: Multi-system Dysfunction and Emerging Roles
  • Unit 5: Transition to Independent Practice

All units are comprised of a problem-based course and a complementary clinical laboratory course in the thematic area of study, as well as courses and course content related to professional practice and research and evidence-based practice.

Student performance is evaluated on a regular basis throughout the MSc (PT) Program, using:

  • a variety of evaluation tools consistent with the principles of problem-based and self-directed learning (e.g., self and peer evaluations),
  • problem-based tutorial examinations,
  • written assignments and examinations, and
  • Objective Structure Clinical Examinations.

Professional Practicum/Clinical Placements

The Director of Clinical Education of the MSc (PT) Program is responsible for arranging all practicum/clinical education placements. Your placement will be located within the designated McMaster catchment area; however, you may be required to complete some clinical education units in Northwestern Ontario as part of the NSS.

You are expected to travel outside of Hamilton, Ontario, for mandatory teaching sessions and clinical placements. You are responsible for your own transportation and associated costs to complete program requirements.

Some placements may be located in rural, under‑serviced and remote areas. In certain placement streams, external funding may be available.

Read more about professional practicum/clinical placements for the PT program.

MSc (PT) Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements

You are eligible to apply in your fourth year of undergraduate study or after graduating from a 4‑year baccalaureate degree (minimum of 120 units/credits), or equivalent, from an accredited university or a baccalaureate degree granting college. The degree can be in any university discipline – none are favoured.

You must also have a minimum GPA of 3.3/4.0 on the ORPAS scale (B+ or 77% or 9.0/12.0) in the last 2 years or 60 units of university course work.

ORPAS will calculate your sub-GPA based on reverse chronological order of courses as listed on the submitted official transcript(s). Where grades must be extracted from a term to achieve the equivalent of 60 units, ORPAS will use the average of the term.

Read more about how your sub-GPA is calculated.

We will calculate your sub-GPA if graduate work has been completed and/or if ORPAS is unable to calculate your sub-GPA, such as when international education has been completed or your degree was granted from a college.

Note: You may apply in the fourth year of your degree program but must provide proof that you have completed the degree requirements prior to June 30, 2023. We will consider academic achievement on graduate courses on a case‑by‑case basis.

Per the McMaster Graduate Calendar, admission is competitive and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Final admission decisions rest with the Graduate Admissions and Studies Committee for each faculty. The admission decision is not subject to appeal.

MSc (PT) Prerequisite Course Requirements

In addition to the academic requirements, you must complete 4 prerequisite courses by December 31, 2022:

  • 1 course in human anatomy and 1 course in physiology (minimum 3 units each) or 1 full-credit (6 unit) combined course in human anatomy and physiology.
    • To meet this requirement, you may complete any combination of half-credit (3 unit) and full-credit (6 unit) courses, as long as you complete a minimum of 3 units for each subject. For example:
      • 1 half-credit (3 unit) course in human anatomy and 1 half-credit (3 unit) course in physiology;
      • 1 half-credit (3 unit) course in human anatomy and 1 full-credit (6 unit) course in physiology; or
      • 1 full-credit (6 unit) course in human anatomy and physiology.
  • 1 half-credit (3 units) statistics course or research methods in a health-related field course.
  • 1 half-credit (3 units) humanities or social science course.

You must complete all prerequisite courses with a grade of 3.3/4.0 on the ORPAS scale (B+ or 77% or 9.0/12.0) to be eligible. You may complete the courses at any point in your academic career (i.e., there is no length of time after which a course will not be eligible) to satisfy the prerequisite requirements. Prerequisite courses, however, do need to be completed by December 31 of the year you are applying.

If you submit prerequisite grades below the minimum, we will not accept them and would deem your application ineligible.

For more details regarding acceptable and pre-approved prerequisite courses, visit the McMaster MSc (PT) Program’s admission website (under “Admission Requirements” then “Prerequisite Courses”).

ORPAS Prerequisite Module

All applicants to the MSc (PT) Program must complete the ORPAS Prerequisite Module.

You are required to record the courses you would like to be considered for each of the 4 prerequisites noted in MSc (PT) Prerequisite Course Requirements.

Your application is deemed eligible only if the prerequisite module is completed.

English-language Requirements

You must be proficient in spoken and written English. If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence of English-language proficiency.

The only exception to this requirement is for those who have completed an entire university degree in:

  • Australia,
  • Canada,
  • New Zealand,
  • the United Kingdom or
  • the USA.
Acceptable Evidence of English-language Proficiency

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL):

  • You must achieve a score of 600 (written), 250 (computer) or 92 (iBT) on the TOEFL test (Reading‑22, Speaking‑24, Listening‑24, Writing‑22).
  • The TOEFL score must not be more than 2 years old at the time of the ORPAS application deadline.

The TOEFL code for McMaster is 0936. The department code for MSc (PT) is 48.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) (Academic):

  • You must achieve a minimum overall score of 6.5, with at least 5.5 in each section.
  • IELTS must send results directly to McMaster University.
  • Scores that are more than 2 years old are not valid.

MSc (PT) Application Process

Canadian Permanent Residents (Landed Immigrants)

If you have permanent resident (landed immigrant) status, you must submit the following required documentation to ORPAS to ensure your application is complete:

  • Original transcripts sent by the originating institution(s)
  • TOEFL or IELTS (if applicable)
  • ORPAS Online Prerequisite Module

International Applicants

If you are an international applicant, you must submit the following required documentation to ORPAS to ensure your application is complete:

MSc (PT) Selection Method

We admit approximately 67 students (including a limited number of international students between the OT, PT and SLP programs) into the MSc (PT) Program annually.

Online Interview

We invite all applicants who have met the minimum academic requirements and 4 prerequisite courses to participate in an online interview (using the Kira Talent – Video Interview Platform). The online interview fee is $55 CAD (non-refundable), which you must pay before you can complete the interview.

Eligible applicants will receive an email from the MSc (PT) Program inviting them to complete their payment for the online interview (in February 2023), including instructions on how to pay the non-refundable fee.

Once the online interview fee is received from eligible applicants, we will provide you with a link and notify you of the time frame that you must complete your online interview in. No alternative dates or arrangements are available for the online interview. It must be conducted within the time frame given.

To complete the interview, you will need a computer with a webcam, microphone and internet connection.

We will rank all eligible applicants who complete the online interview and meet all academic requirements based on their interview score (75%) and sub-GPA (25%), as calculated by ORPAS or the Program, as well as the required prerequisite courses.

Read more about the MSc (PT) selection method.

MSc (PT) Accreditation

The MSc (PT) Program is accredited by Physiotherapy Education Accreditation Canada (PEAC) and was awarded the status of Accreditation – Fully Compliant for the period of September 21, 2021, to October 15, 2027, by Physiotherapy Education Accreditation Canada (PEAC). The MSc (PT) Program meets Canadian professional practice standards.

The MSc (PT) Program prepares graduates for eligibility to register to practice physiotherapy in Canada.

Exam pass rates:

  • Our 15-year Physiotherapy National Exam pass rate is 96.8% (national average: 94.6%)
  • Our 15-year Physiotherapy Competency Exam pass rate is 92.9% (national average: 91.6%)
    • Note: In 2020 and 2021, the Clinical Component of the Physiotherapy Competency Exam was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Regulation of Practice

All physiotherapists in Canada must be registered with the appropriate provincial regulatory body to practice in that province. Each regulatory body has a separate and distinct registration process; however, in all circumstances, a degree in physiotherapy is required.

In Ontario, successful completion of the Physiotherapy Competency Examination (PCE) may also be required.

MSc (PT) Contact Information

MSc Physiotherapy Program
School of Rehabilitation Science
McMaster University
Institute for Applied Health Sciences, Room 403D
1400 Main Street West
Hamilton ON  L8S 1C7

PT Email: askPT@mcmaster.ca
PT Office Phone Number: 905-525-9140, ext. 26943

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MSc Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) Program

In this section:

MSc (SLP) Program Information

We offer a 23‑month, full‑time, course‑based program in SLP leading to a MSc (SLP) degree.

Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) are autonomous rehabilitation health professionals with specialized knowledge, skills and clinical training in the prevention, screening, identification, assessment and management of congenital and acquired communication and swallowing disorders.

Anchored within the innovative and renowned School of Rehabilitation Science at McMaster University, the MSc (SLP) Program will add to the inter-professional mix of health care disciplines within the Faculty of Health Sciences.

With its problem-based learning curriculum, grounded in self-directed and small-group learning, the MSc (SLP) Program offers a unique learning and training opportunity within Canada for students interested in a career in SLP.

The goal of this program is to prepare SLPs with the knowledge, skills and professional behaviours needed to practice in a variety of Canadian health care and community settings.

MSc (SLP) Curriculum

The MSc (SLP) Program will prepare you to be eligible to register to practice speech-language pathology and will meet professional accreditation and practice standards.

The minimum expectation is the completion of all course work across 2 extended study years, from September to July (in Year 1 and Year 2):

  • Year 1 focuses on the fundamentals of SLP to build foundational knowledge relevant to the field of SLP and introduces you to communication across the lifespan.
  • Year 2 provides opportunities for you to develop more advanced skills and prepares you for the complex contexts of professional practice.

Throughout the program, you gain experience across many client populations and in multiple settings.

Program Structure

The program is organized into the following 5 university‑based units of study, with 5 placement courses throughout the curriculum:

  • Unit 1: Fundamentals of Clinical Practice I: Principles, Knowledge, and Skills for Clinical Practice
  • Unit 2: Fundamentals of Clinical Practice II: Roles and Practice Settings Across the Lifespan
  • Unit 3: Clinical Practice with Children, Youth, & Young Adults
  • Unit 4: Clinical Practice with Adults and Older Adults
  • Unit 5: Complex Practice and Professional Transition

The curriculum is delivered through a combination of problem-based tutorials, clinical skills sessions, large group seminars, e-learning modules, interprofessional education and collaboration activities and experiential learning (clinical education).

Student performance is evaluated on a regular basis throughout the MSc (SLP) Program using:

  • self and peer evaluations,
  • problem‑based tutorial evaluations,
  • oral and written assignments and examinations, and
  • Objective Structured Clinical Examinations.

Read more about the MSc (SLP) curriculum.

Professional Practica/Clinical Placements

The Director of Clinical Education of the MSc (SLP) Program is responsible for arranging all clinical education placements. There may be opportunities to complete some clinical education placements in northern Ontario (refer to Northern Studies Stream).

You are also expected to travel outside of Hamilton, Ontario, for mandatory teaching sessions and clinical placements. You are responsible for your own transportation and associated costs to complete program requirements.

Some placements may be located in rural, under‑serviced and remote areas. In certain placement streams, external funding may be available.

Read more about clinical placements.

MSc (SLP) Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements

You are eligible to apply in your fourth year of undergraduate work or after graduating from a 4‑year baccalaureate degree (minimum of 120 units/credits), or equivalent, from a recognized university with a minimum second‑class B+ standing (77% or 3.3/4.0 or 9.0/12.0) in the final 2 years (or 60 units of university course work).

We will complete calculations based on the reverse chronological order of courses as listed on the submitted official transcript(s). Where grades must be extracted from a term to achieve the equivalent of 60 units, we will use the average of the term.

To ensure a fair and equitable admission process, our MSc (SLP) Program utilizes the sub-GPA, as calculated by ORPAS, to determine top-ranked applicants invited to our Multiple Mini-Interviews (MMIs). To ensure a fair and equitable interview process, all assessors are provided with anti-bias and diversity training prior to evaluating students.

Note: You may apply in the fourth year of your degree program but must provide proof that you have completed the degree requirements and all prerequisite courses prior to June 30, 2023. We will consider academic achievement on graduate courses on a case‑by‑case basis.

Per the McMaster Graduate Calendar, admission is competitive and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Final admission decisions rest with the Graduate Admissions and Studies Committee for each faculty. The admission decision is not subject to appeal.

English-language Requirements

You must be proficient in spoken and written English. If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence of English-language proficiency.

The only exception to this requirement is for those who have completed an entire university degree in:

  • Australia,
  • Canada,
  • New Zealand,
  • the United Kingdom or
  • the USA.

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is the only acceptable evidence.

TOEFL requirements:

  • You must achieve a score of 100 (iBT) on the TOEFL test (Reading‑24, Speaking‑26, Listening‑24, Writing‑26).
  • The TOEFL score must not be more than 2 years old at the time of the ORPAS application deadline.

The TOEFL code for McMaster is 0936. The department code for MSc (SLP) is 55.

MSc (SLP) Course Requirements

In addition to the admission requirements, you must identify, on the ORPAS Online Prerequisite Module, the courses that fulfill the following prerequisites (if the prerequisite course is incomplete, indicate “IPR”):

  • A full or half credit in 1 linguistics course at any level, with a grade of B or higher.
    • Acceptable courses include: Phonetics, Syntax, Semantics, Language and Communication, and Speech Acoustics.
  • A full or half credit in 1 relevant psychology course at the second-year level or above, with a grade of B or higher.
    • Acceptable courses include: Childhood Development, Developmental Psychology, Aging and Perception, Cognition, or equivalent.
  • A full or half credit in 1 human anatomy or human physiology course at any level, with a grade of B or higher.
    • The course must be directly relevant to communication (i.e., must focus on anatomy and physiology related to speaking, hearing, voice and swallowing).
  • A full or half credit in 1 research methods or statistics course at any level, with a grade of B or higher.

You must be enrolled in the specified MSc (SLP) prerequisite courses by the application deadline (i.e., the course must be listed on an official transcript).

ORPAS Prerequisite Module

All applicants to the MSc (SLP) Program must complete the ORPAS Prerequisite Module.

You are required to record the prerequisite courses for the MSc (SLP):

  • 1 linguistics course,
  • 1 psychology course,
  • 1 human anatomy or human physiology course and,
  • 1 research methods or statistics course.

Read more about prerequisite requirements for the MSc (SLP) Program.

Note: The application is incomplete without the completed prerequisite module.

MSc (SLP) Application Process

Canadian Permanent Residents (Landed Immigrants)

If you have permanent resident (landed immigrant) status, you must submit the following required documentation to ORPAS to ensure your application is complete:

  • Original transcripts sent by the originating institution(s)
  • TOEFL (if applicable)
  • ORPAS Online Prerequisite Module

International Applicants

If you are an international applicant, you must submit the following required documentation to ORPAS to ensure your application is complete:

MSc (SLP) Selection Method

We admit approximately 32 students (including a limited number of international students between the OT, PT and SLP programs) into the MSc (SLP) Program annually.

Online Multiple Mini-Interviews (MMIs)

Based on academic achievement, we will invite approximately 150 applicants to the MMI weekend. Faculty and community members assess personal qualities and experiences in the interview process.

We will conduct MMIs online in March 2023.

If you are invited for an interview:

  • We will notify you by email about the date, time and process, including a link to pay the $55 non-refundable fee.
  • To complete the interview, you will need a computer with a webcam, microphone and stable internet connection.
  • We rank applicants based on sub-GPA, as calculated by ORPAS and interview scores.

Final approval of offers of admission is granted by the School of Graduate Studies (SGS).

Visit the MSc (SLP) Program website for further details.

MSc (SLP) Accreditation

The MSc (SLP) Program is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Canadian University Programs in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology and was awarded a full 7-year term of accreditation in April 2022.

Regulation of Practice

All SLPs in Canada must be registered with the appropriate provincial regulatory body to practice in that province. Each regulatory body has a separate and distinct registration process; however, in all circumstances, a degree in SLP is required.

In Ontario, successful completion of the Speech-Language and Audiology Canada Examination (SAC) is also required.

MSc (SLP) Contact Information

SRS Admissions Office – MSc (SLP) Program
School of Rehabilitation Science
McMaster University
Institute for Applied Health Sciences, Room 403
1400 Main Street West
Hamilton ON  L8S 1C7

SLP Telephone: 905-525-9140, ext. 27857
SLP Email: askSLP@mcmaster.ca

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