Student posing for a picture at the university of ottawa

Master of Arts (MA) in Bilingualism Studies

The program addresses essential topics in applied linguistics, such as methodological and technological innovations in second-language instruction to adults, language proficiency assessment, as well as language planning and policy in Canada and internationally. It also covers numerous contemporary issues related to bilingualism.

The main objective of the program is to provide a solid foundation in Bilingualism Studies. It enables students to develop advanced research skills through a specialized methodology course, the writing of research papers, and, when applicable, the completion of thesis research.

The program draws on the expertise of OLBI professors and other departments within the Faculty of Arts, and is offered in both French and English.

Who should apply to the MA in Bilingualism Studies?

Students with an honours Bachelor of Arts in:

  • Second Language Teaching / Didactique des langues secondes (or its equivalent);
  • Applied Linguistics;
  • A related discipline.

Students with a three-year Bachelor's degree in

  • Applied Linguistics, or a related discipline, in addition to a university-level, university-administered advanced certificate in TESOL (Teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages), representing a minimum of 30 credits.

    The program is bilingual, and students will be required to take seminars in both French and English. To be admitted, they must understand, speak, and write either French or English, and demonstrate comprehension skills in the other language. Candidates whose first language is not French or English must provide proof of proficiency in one or both languages. The list of language requirements is available under the specific program requirements

For further information, including the application form, consult the Faculty of Arts.

MA in Bilingualism Studies - Options

  • MA with Thesis (2 years)

  • MA with Major Research Paper (1 year)

  • MA with Courses and practicum (1 year)

  • Dual degree with Université Lumière Lyon 2 (1 or 2 years, compatible with Thesis or Major Research Paper options)

These program options are detailed here: Program requirements

More information

The University of Ottawa has revised its admission scholarship model at graduate level. As from the Fall term 2024:

  • A limited number of Faculty of Arts merit admission scholarships of $7,500, non-renewable, will be offered to Canadian students, permanent residents, and international students with an average of 8.0/10 and above.
  • International students with an average of 9.0/10 or higher may be recommended for the Ontario Graduate Scholarship program (competitive).
  •  All students enrolled in the M.A. in Bilingualism Studies may apply for teaching or research assistantships.

OLBI research Chairs and professors offer research assistantships to M.A. students with relevant academic profiles and research interests. There is also the possibility of teaching assistantships for qualified students, particularly in the Intensive English program with OLBI Language Learning Center. 

Career opportunities

works fair

Career prospects for the graduates of this program are excellent in Canada and abroad. Graduates may find employment in several areas, including the following:

  • Teaching second languages to adults in language schools, colleges, universities, and other language institutes ;
  • Language planning and evaluation of language policy in government, local/national and international organizations and agencies;
  • Expertise in language management and language services for private sector companies or community-based programs;
  • Developing language assessment tools and tests;
  • Developing language software.