About
About the Faculty of Health Sciences
McMaster University’s Faculty of Health Sciences is unique as it is the only Canadian university that combines undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate programs in Rehabilitation Science, Medicine, Nursing, Midwifery, Physician Assistants, Child Life and Health Sciences in 1 faculty. This combination of professions is a specific initiative to train members of the health care team in a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach that will graduate leaders in effective and efficient health care.
McMaster is best known for our pioneering work in problem-based learning, which began in our medical school in 1969 and has been adopted around the world.
About the School of Rehabilitation Science
The School of Rehabilitation Science has been offering innovative problem-based programs in Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy for more than 30 years and in Speech-Language Pathology since 2017. A key strength of McMaster clinical rehabilitation programs is our community partnerships, which ensure our programs are at the leading edge of clinical practice.
General Admission Requirements
Applicants must ensure that they meet the admission requirements for each program they apply to.
The admission requirements are the same for all domestic and international applicants, regardless of previous job or life experience. All minimum requirements must be met to be considered for admission.
Resumés, volunteer experience, statements of interest and letters of reference are not required and will not be considered if submitted.
For the MSc (PT) Program, individuals who have previously completed a degree in physiotherapy (internationally or through another Canadian institution) are ineligible to apply for the MSc (PT) Program.
Applicants with an international physiotherapy degree are encouraged to review information about physiotherapy bridging programs on the Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR) website.
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Admission Streams
Facilitated Indigenous Admissions Program (FIAP)
The Faculty of Health Sciences at McMaster University acknowledges the barriers and challenges for Indigenous students accessing post-graduate education programs and opportunities. The Master of Science (MSc) Programs have a FIAP for individuals with Indigenous North American (First Nations, 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 and
- provide cultural competency training for all health care professionals.
These principles guide the MSc programs in working toward an environment where all students, patients and educators have learning opportunities focused on 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; and United Nations [2015]. Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Calls to Action.)
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Facilitated Black Admissions Program (FBAP)
The Faculty of Health Sciences at McMaster University acknowledges the barriers and challenges of Black students accessing post-graduate education programs and opportunities. The MSc programs have a FBAP for individuals who self-identify as Black.
To be eligible, the applicant must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (landed immigrant) 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.
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Admission Process and Application Fees
McMaster University Admission Process
You must apply through ORPAS and are subject to their processes and timelines.
The admission process undergoes annual review and is subject to change. Each program reserves the right to change their admission and registration requirements at any time without notice. Any changes will be posted on the program’s website.
McMaster University Application Fees for Domestic and International Applicants
You will be charged a $100 university fee for each program you apply to at the School of Rehabilitation Science, to a maximum of $200.
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.
- If you apply to all 3 programs (OT, PT and SLP), you will only be charged $200.
Additional fees apply if you are invited to an interview.
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Selection Method
Deferral of Accepted Offers
Deferral requests are not normally considered.
MSc (OT) Deferral Process located in “Offer of Admission” section
MSc (PT) Deferral Process located in “Offer of Admission” section
MSc (SLP) Deferral Process located in “Admission” section
Advanced Standing and Transfer
There is no provision for advanced standing or transfer into the programs.
The programs begin in the fall of year 1 and continue for 2 full years. Typically, students 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.
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Accreditation
The MSc Programs in the School of Rehabilitation Science are all accredited.
MSc (OT) Program Accreditation
MSc Occupational Therapy (OT) Program
MSc (OT) Curriculum
We offer a 24-month, full-time, course-based program in OT leading to an MSc (OT) degree. The MSc (OT) curriculum utilizes a Self‑Directed, Problem‑Based Learning (PBL) philosophy. 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.
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 complete coursework, 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 coursework 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.
MSc (OT) Program Structure
The program is organized into 5 terms of study, with 4 clinical placement courses throughout the curriculum. The program runs over 6 university‑based terms:
- 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.
MSc (OT) 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 NOSM University. Our Program may have access to some sites outside of the McMaster catchment area through an inter-university system.
All students will experience clinical education placements throughout the program. The Director of Clinical Education of the MSc (OT) Program is responsible for assigning all clinical education placements.
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. You may be required to complete some clinical education units in Northern Ontario or elsewhere outside of the McMaster catchment area. You are responsible for your own transportation and associated costs to complete program requirements.
Northern Studies Stream (NSS)
The NSS is a unique opportunity for McMaster students in OT to participate in a funded placement(s) in Northern Ontario communities.
MSc (OT) Admission Requirements
MSc (OT) Academic Requirements
MSc (OT): Degree Requirements
Applicants must have a 4-year baccalaureate degree (120 units, credits or equivalent):
- The degree can be in any university discipline; none are favoured.
- The degree must be completed from an accredited institution.
- Applicants may apply in the fourth year of their degree but must provide proof of graduation prior to June 30 of the year they apply in.
For applicants with a 3-year baccalaureate degree:
- An additional 30 units or credits (in addition to a 3-year degree) are required to total 120 units or credits.
- Contained within the 120 units or credits, 10 courses (30 units or credits) must be at the third- or fourth-year level.
MSc (OT): Sub-Grade Point Average (GPA) Calculation
Required: A minimum sub-GPA of 3.3 (B+ or 77%) on the 4.0 scale, according to the Undergraduate Grade Conversion Table, over the last 2 years or 60 units of university academic study is required.
- Grades will be converted to the OUAC scale to calculate your sub-GPA.
- Use the ORPAS – GPA Calculations page to review how your sub-GPA is calculated by ORPAS and the types of courses included or excluded.
- Grades from all graduate work will be included in the sub-GPA and calculated by the program separately. Graduate courses are weighted the same as undergraduate work.
- For applicants who apply during their fourth year of their degree, the sub-GPA will include fourth-year fall term grades up to December.
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.
Grade calculations are based on the reverse chronological order of courses, as listed on the submitted official transcript(s).
MSc (OT) Non-academic Requirements
MSc (OT): English-language Proficiency
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 the following places:
- Canada
- US
- Australia
- New Zealand
- United Kingdom
If English is not your first language, an official copy of your Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) academic test report form is required by the ORPAS application deadline. These test results must not be more than 2 years old at the time of the ORPAS application deadline.
TOEFL requirements:
- A minimum score of 600 (written) or 250 (computer) or 92 (iBT) (Reading 22, Speaking 24, Listening 24, Writing 22) is required.
- The TOEFL score must be sent directly from the TOEFL Centre to McMaster University (McMaster code: 0936, Department code: 48).
- Test results must not be more than 2 years old at the time of the ORPAS application deadline.
IELTS requirements:
- A minimum overall score of 6.5, with at least 5.5 in each section.
- IELTS results must be sent directly from IELTS to McMaster University.
MSc (OT): International Degrees and Exchange Work
If you are an international applicant and/or completed your degree or additional courses at an international institution, you must submit the following required documentation to ORPAS to ensure your application is complete:
- World Education Services (WES) assessment
- Original transcripts sent by the originating institution(s). Refer to the ORPAS Transcript Requirements for assessment of international transcripts and exchange work.
Applicants who completed their degree at a Canadian university, but completed 1 semester through an exchange program, are not required to have their international transcript assessed by WES. However, if an applicant does not provide equivalent Canadian grades, the grades received during the exchange program may not be included in the sub-GPA calculation.
MSc (OT): Admission Stream Requirements
Applicants wishing to apply through the FIAP must:
- Indicate you are applying through the FIAP in the ORPAS application.
- Complete the Facilitated Admissions Self-Identification application.
- The deadline for submitting this application is the same as the ORPAS application deadline for the Program.
Applicants wishing to apply for the FBAP must:
- Indicate you are applying through the FBAP in the ORPAS application.
- Complete the separate FBAP application if invited by the Program.
- Applicants will have the option to complete a personal statement (maximum 250 words).
MSc (OT): Entrance Requirements
Upon acceptance of an offer of admission, you must meet all entrance requirements to participate in the MSc (OT) Program. Failure to satisfy the requirements may result in removal from the program.
These entrance requirements are not needed at the time of application.
MSc (OT) Admission Process
MSc (OT) Applicant Responsibilities
It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that ORPAS receives their application and all required supporting documentation by the deadlines. If the application is not complete, or if supporting documentation is not received by the deadlines, the application will not be considered.
MSc (OT) Online Interview
Eligible applicants (up to 800 applicants) who have met the academic requirements will be invited, via the email address they provided in their ORPAS application, to participate in an online interview. The cost of the interview is $55 (non-refundable) and must be paid before the online interview can be accessed. Applicants who have not met the minimum requirements will not proceed to the interview and will be notified via email.
Once we receive the interview fee, applicants will receive a link to the online interview. There is no individual date and time assigned. The interview can be completed any time within the time frame provided. Deadline extensions are not granted.
To complete the interview, applicants must have a computer, webcam, microphone and stable internet connection. Tablets and mobile devices are not compatible with the interview software.
The interview is comprised of several verbal response and written response questions. A set amount of time is provided to allow you to prepare your response, and a set amount of time is provided for you to respond. The interview takes approximately 40 to 50 minutes to complete.
The MSc (OT) Program will support accommodations for the interview process. To be considered, we must receive your request for accommodation by the specified time and date in the invitation for interview letter.
MSc (OT) Selection Method
Applicants who completed the online interview are ranked based on their final score, which is a combination of their interview score (75%) and their sub-GPA (25%). Offers of admission are made using the overall rank in conjunction with other factors from your ORPAS application and online interview (i.e., interview integrity).
Approximately 70 students are admitted to the MSc (OT) Program each year. The final approval of applicants for admission will be granted by the School of Graduate Studies.
Applicants will be notified of the admission decision via the email they provided in their ORPAS application. Applicants will receive either an offer of admission, notification that they are on the waiting list or a decline letter.
Applicants on the wait list will not be provided their position on the wait list.
Applicants being offered admission must complete the online offer of acceptance to ORPAS, satisfy the conditions of their offer and pay a non-refundable deposit fee of $500 (credited towards tuition).
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. The OT Program does not provide feedback to applicants on their application or on admission decisions.
MSc (OT) Additional Information
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
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
Website: https://srs-ot.healthsci.mcmaster.ca
MSc Physiotherapy (PT) Program
MSc (PT) Curriculum
We offer a 24-month, full-time, course-based program in OT leading to an MSc (OT) degree. The MSc (OT) curriculum utilizes a self‑directed, Problem Based Learning (PBL) philosophy. 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.
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 complete coursework, 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 coursework 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.
MSc (PT) Program Structure
The curriculum is offered as a full-time, 2-year, entry-level master’s program. The curriculum is divided into 6 university-based terms of study with 4 clinical practice courses integrated throughout the 24-month period.
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 knowledge, skills and attitudes through a focus on multi-system dysfunction, emerging roles, professional competency roles and professional transition to independent practice. You also complete a physiotherapy-related elective course.
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, 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
- structured clinical examinations.
MSc (PT) Clinical Placements
The Clinical Education component of the curriculum provides the opportunity to apply knowledge and skills students have learned in the academic setting. Students are primarily supervised by licensed physiotherapists, who help educate the students by sharing their professional and clinical expertise.
Students complete 4 clinical placements. Clinical placements occur in multiple settings (i.e., acute or hospital, community, rehabilitation, role emerging) and various practice areas (i.e., musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiorespiratory). They can be completed in the McMaster catchment area, in other university catchments, through the Northern Studies Stream and/or internationally.
Northern Studies Stream (NSS)
The NSS is a unique opportunity for McMaster students in the PT program to participate in a funded placements in Northern Ontario communities.
MSc (PT) Admission Requirements
MSc (PT) Academic Requirements
MSc (PT): Degree Requirements
Applicants must have a 4-year baccalaureate degree (120 units or credits or equivalent):
- Applicants in their fourth year of their degree may apply, but they must provide proof of degree conferral by June 30 of the application year.
- The degree can be in any university discipline; none are preferred.
- The degree must be obtained from an institution that is accredited.
- Degrees awarded by degree-granting colleges are accepted.
- Within these 120 units or credits, at least 10 courses (equivalent to 30 units or credits) must be at the third- or fourth-year level.
- Courses not normally included in the 120 units or credits include placements, internships and activity courses.
For applicants with a 3-year baccalaureate degree:
- An additional 30 units or credits, beyond those of a 3-year degree, are required to reach a total of 120 units or credits.
- Within these 120 units or credits, at least 10 courses (equivalent to 30 units or credits) must be at the third- or fourth-year level.
- Courses not usually included in the 120 units or credits include placements, internships and activity courses.
For applicants with a degree in Physiotherapy or Physical Therapy:
- If your degree was obtained either internationally or from another Canadian institution, you are not eligible to apply to the MSc (PT) Program.
- We recommend that applicants with an international physiotherapy or physical therapy degree consider physiotherapy bridging programs.
MSc (PT): Grade Point Average (GPA) Requirements
Required: A minimum sub-GPA of 3.3 (B+ or 77%) on the 4.0 scale, according to the Undergraduate Grade Conversion Table, over the last 2 years or 60 units of university academic study is required.
ORPAS will calculate sub-GPA for undergraduate coursework completed at Canadian universities and US institutions.
- Grades will be converted to the OUAC scale to calculate your sub-GPA.
- Use the ORPAS – GPA Calculations page to review how the sub-GPA is calculated.
- For applicants who apply during their fourth year of their degree, the sub-GPA must include fourth-year fall term grades up to December to be deemed eligible.
The MSc (PT) 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.
MSc (PT): Prerequisite Courses
Applicants are required to complete 4 prerequisite courses with a minimum grade in each course of 3.3 (B+ or 77%) on the 4.0 scale, according to the Undergraduate Grade Conversion Table.
- 3 unit (0.5 credit) course in human physiology
- 3 unit (0.5 credit) course in human anatomy
- 3 unit (0.5 credit) course in statistics or health research methods
- 3 unit (0.5 credit) course in humanities or social science
Prerequisite courses must be completed by December 31, prior to the application deadline in January. Courses cannot carry over into the winter term.
Prerequisite grades below the minimum will not be accepted and will deem the application ineligible.
Prerequisite courses must be completed at an accredited university. If you are completing a degree from a degree-granting college, the prerequisite courses must be taken as part of your degree (i.e., you cannot submit a college-level prerequisite course as a non-degree student).
Applicants are required to accurately record all 4 of their prerequisite courses on the ORPAS Prerequisite Module of their application for consideration.
Prerequisite courses accepted during one admission cycle may not be accepted during another admission cycle. Review the approved course listings on our website annually.
MSc (PT) Non-academic Requirements
MSc (PT): English-language Proficiency
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 the following places:
- Canada
- US
- Australia
- New Zealand
- United Kingdom
If English is not your first language, an official copy of your Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) academic test report form is required by the ORPAS application deadline. These test results must not be more than 2 years old at the time of the ORPAS application deadline.
TOEFL requirements:
- A minimum score of 600 (written) or 250 (computer) or 92 (iBT) (Reading 22, Speaking 24, Listening 24, Writing 22) is required.
- The TOEFL score must be sent directly from the TOEFL Centre to McMaster University (McMaster code: 0936, Department code: 48).
IELTS requirements:
- A minimum overall score of 6.5, with at least 5.5 in each section.
- IELTS results must be sent directly from IELTS to McMaster University.
MSc (PT): International Degrees and Exchange Work
If you are an international applicant, completed courses at an international institution, or have completed exchange work (excluding the US) you must submit the following required documentation to ORPAS to ensure your application is complete:
- World Education Services (WES) assessment
- Original transcripts sent by the originating institution(s). Refer to the ORPAS Transcript Requirements for assessment of international transcripts and exchange work.
MSc (PT): Admission Stream Requirements
Applicants wishing to apply through the FIAP must:
- Indicate you are applying through the FIAP in the ORPAS application.
- Complete the Facilitated Admissions Self-Identification application.
- The deadline for submitting this application is the same as the ORPAS application deadline for the Program.
Applicants wishing to apply for the FBAP must:
- Indicate you are applying through the FBAP in the ORPAS application.
- Complete the separate FBAP application if invited by the Program.
- Applicants will have the option to complete a personal statement (maximum 250 words).
MSc (PT): Entrance Requirements
Upon acceptance of an offer of admission, you must meet all entrance requirements to participate in the MSc (PT) Program. Failure to satisfy the requirements may result in removal from the program.
These entrance requirements are not needed at the time of application.
MSc (PT) Admission Process
MSc (PT) Applicant Responsibilities
It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that ORPAS receives the application and all required supporting documentation by the deadlines. If the application is not complete, or if supporting documentation is not received by the deadlines, the application will not be considered.
MSc (PT) Online Interview
All eligible applicants who have met the academic requirements will be invited, via the email address they provided in their ORPAS application, to participate in an online virtual interview. The cost of the interview is $55 (non-refundable) and must be paid before the online interview can be completed. Applicants who have not met the minimum requirements and will not proceed to the interview will be notified via email.
Once the interview fee is received, applicants will receive a link to complete the online interview within the time frame provided. There is no individual date and time assigned; as such, applicants can complete the interview at any time during the specified dates. Deadline extensions are not granted. To complete the interview, applicants must have a computer, webcam, microphone and internet. To be considered, we must receive your request for accommodation by the specified time and date in the invitation letter.
The interview is comprised of verbal questions and a written response question. A set amount of time is provided to allow candidates to prepare their response, and a set amount of time is provided for responses. The interview takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes to complete.
MSc (PT) Selection Method
Applicants who completed the online interview are ranked on a combination of their interview score (75% of final ranking) and their sub-GPA (25% of final ranking). Offers of admission are made using the overall rank in conjunction with other factors from your ORPAS application and online interview (i.e., interview integrity, non-academic requirements).
Approximately 67 students are admitted to the MSc (PT) Program each year. The final approval of applicants for admission will be granted by the School of Graduate Studies.
Applicants will be notified of the admission decision via the email address they provided in their ORPAS application. Applicants will receive either an offer of admission, notification of their placement on the waiting list or a decline letter.
Applicants being offered admission must complete the online offer of acceptance to ORPAS, satisfy the conditions of their offer, and pay a non-refundable deposit fee of $500 (credited toward tuition).
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) Additional Information
MSc (PT) 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, at the time of writing, successful completion of the written component of the Physiotherapy Competency Exam (PCE) and the Ontario Clinical Exam (OCE) is currently required. You are responsible for remaining aware of any changes in regulation requirements.
MSc (PT) Contact Information
MSc Physiotherapy Program
School of Rehabilitation Science
McMaster University
Institute for Applied Health Sciences, Room 403
1400 Main Street West
Hamilton ON L8S 1C7
Website: https://srs-pt.healthsci.mcmaster.ca
MSc Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) Program
MSc (SLP) Curriculum
We offer a 23-month, full-time, course-based program in SLP leading to an 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 adds 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.
The MSc (SLP) Program will prepare you to be eligible to register to practice speech-language pathology and meet professional accreditation and practice standards in Canada.
The minimum expectation is the completion of all coursework across 2 study years, from September to August (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.
MSc (SLP) 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
- structured clinical examinations.
MSc (SLP) 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.
You are expected to travel outside of Hamilton, Ontario, for clinical placements and mandatory teaching sessions. You are responsible for your own transportation and associated costs to complete program requirements.
Some placements may be located in rural, underserviced and remote areas. In certain placement streams, external funding may be available.
Northern Studies Stream (NSS)
The NSS is a unique opportunity for McMaster students in the SLP program to participate in 1 or more funded placement(s) in Northern Ontario communities.
MSc (SLP) Admission Requirements
MSc (SLP) Academic Requirements
MSc (SLP): Degree Requirements
Applicants must have a 4-year baccalaureate degree (120 units or credits or equivalent):
- The degree can be in any university discipline; none are favoured.
- The degree must be completed from an accredited institution.
- Applicants may apply in the fourth year of their undergraduate degree but must provide proof of graduation prior to June 30 of the year they are accepted into the program.
MSc (SLP): Sub-Grade Point Average (GPA) Calculation
Applicants must have earned a minimum sub-GPA of 3.3 (B+ or 77%) on the 4.0 scale, according to the Undergraduate Grade Conversion Table, over the last 2 years or 60 units of university academic study.
- Grades will be converted to the OUAC scale to calculate your sub-GPA.
- Use the ORPAS – GPA Calculations page to review how your sub-GPA is calculated by ORPAS and the types of courses included or excluded.
- Grades from all graduate work will be included in the sub-GPA and calculated by the program separately. Graduate courses are weighted the same as undergraduate courses.
- For applicants who apply during their fourth year of the degree, the sub-GPA will include fourth-year fall term grades up to December.
The MSc (SLP) Program 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.
MSc (SLP): Prerequisite Courses
Applicants are required to complete 4 prerequisite courses with a minimum grade in each course of 3.0 (B or 73%) on the 4.0 scale, according to the Undergraduate Grade Conversion Table. Each course can be a full credit course (6 units) or half credit (3 units).
- 1 linguistics course at any level. Acceptable courses include: Phonetics, Syntax, Semantics, Language and Communication, and Speech Acoustics.
- 1 psychology course at the second-year level or above. Acceptable courses include: Childhood Development, Developmental Psychology, Aging and Perception, and Cognition.
- 1 human anatomy or human physiology course at any level. The course must be directly relevant to communication (i.e., must focus on anatomy and physiology related to speaking, hearing, breathing and swallowing).
- 1 research methods or statistics course at any level.
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).
- If the prerequisite course is incomplete at the time of application, indicate “IPR” as the grade.
- Grades will be converted to the OUAC scale. If you submit prerequisite grades below the minimum, we will not accept them and your application will be ineligible.
- Prerequisite courses must be completed at an accredited university. College courses may not be used, even if transfer credit was granted.
- Applicants are required to accurately record all 4 of their prerequisite courses on the ORPAS Prerequisite Module of their application for consideration.
MSc (SLP) Non-academic Requirements
MSc (SLP): 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 Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is the only acceptable evidence of English-language proficiency and is required by the ORPAS application deadline.
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 score must be sent directly from the TOEFL Centre to McMaster University (McMaster code: 0936, Department code: 55).
The only exception to this requirement is for those who have completed an entire university degree in the following places:
- Canada
- US
- Australia
- New Zealand
- United Kingdom
MSc (SLP): International Degrees and Exchange Work
If you are an international applicant, completed courses at an international institution or have completed exchange work (in a country other than Canada or the US), you must submit the following required documentation to ORPAS to ensure your application is complete:
- World Education Services (WES) assessment
- Original transcripts sent by the originating institution(s). Refer to the ORPAS Transcript Requirements for assessment of international transcripts and exchange work.
- TOEFL (if applicable)
- ORPAS Online Prerequisite Module
MSc (SLP): Admission Stream Requirements
Applicants wishing to apply through the FIAP must:
- Indicate you are applying through the FIAP in the ORPAS application.
- Complete the Facilitated Admissions Self-Identification Application.
- The deadline for submitting this application is the same as the ORPAS application deadline for the Program.
Applicants wishing to apply for the FBAP must:
- Indicate you are applying through the FBAP in the ORPAS application.
- Complete the separate FBAP application if invited by the Program.
- Applicants will have the option to complete a personal statement (maximum 250 words).
MSc (SLP): Entrance Requirements
Upon acceptance of an offer of admission, you must meet all entrance requirements to participate in the MSc (SLP) Program. Failure to satisfy the requirements may result in removal from the Program.
These entrance requirements are not needed at the time of application.
MSc (SLP) Admission Process
MSc (SLP) Applicant Responsibilities
It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that ORPAS receives their application and all required supporting documentation by the deadlines. If the application is not complete, or if supporting documentation is not received by the deadlines, the application will not be considered.
MSc (SLP) Online Interview
The top-ranked (approximately 150) applicants will be invited to participate in virtual multiple mini-interviews (MMIs). 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 MMIs, you will need a computer with a webcam, microphone and stable internet connection. If you require an accommodation for the MMIs, we must receive your request by the time and date specified in the invitation email. To ensure a fair and equitable interview process, all assessors are provided with anti-bias and diversity training prior to evaluating students.
Applicants who have not been invited to an interview will not continue through the application process and are welcome to apply again the following year.
MSc (SLP) Selection Method
Applicants who completed the virtual interview are ranked on a combination of their interview score (75% of final ranking) and their sub-GPA (25% of final ranking). Offers of admission are made using the overall rank in conjunction with other factors from your ORPAS application and virtual interview (i.e., interview integrity).
We admit approximately 32 students into the MSc (SLP) Program annually.
Applicants will be notified of the admission decision via the email address they provided in their ORPAS application. Applicants will receive an offer of admission, notification that they are on the waiting list, or a decline letter. Consult ORPAS Key Dates for the decision date.
Applicants on the wait list will not be provided with their wait list position.
Applicants being offered admission must complete the online offer of acceptance to ORPAS, satisfy the conditions of their offer, and pay a non-refundable deposit fee of $500 (credited toward tuition). Applicants must comply with all instructions and meet all deadlines to qualify for admission.
Registration in McMaster University’s MSc (SLP) Program implies that the applicant accepts the academic regulations of the Faculty of Health Sciences School of Graduate Studies and the School of Rehabilitation Science, in addition to the program objectives and methods of evaluation.
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. Final approval of offers of admission is granted by the School of Graduate Studies (SGS).
If you have not completed your degree or have coursework 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 coursework by June 30, 2025.
MSc (SLP) Additional Information
MSc (SLP) 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 National Canadian Entry to Practice Examination (CETP) is also required.
MSc (SLP) Contact Information
MSc Speech-Language Pathology Program
School of Rehabilitation Science
McMaster University
Institute for Applied Health Sciences, Room 403
1400 Main Street West
Hamilton ON L8S 1C7