Ontario Tech University - Graduate Studies

Social Practice and Innovation (MSPI)

Ontario Tech University - Graduate Studies

Faculty:Social Science and Humanities
Degree:Master
Field of Study:Social Sciences, Other
Course Based:Yes
Length:16 Month(s)
Cost per year:*
National: $7,579

Cost is per year, based on three terms.

See OTU's tuition and fees page for details.

Description:

The Master of Arts in Social Practice and Innovation (MSPI) is an interdisciplinary program at the intersections of legal studies, communication and digital media, and political science. Each of these disciplines provides different tools with which to identify, analyze, and initiate action on the complex challenges of our contemporary social world. Graduate students in the MSPI program will take courses across the three disciplines to conceptualize practices which address social problems and build collaborations with diverse communities. Addressing social problems through social innovation involving the creation, development, adoption, and integration of new and renewed concepts, systems, and practices are core elements of this approach.

Prerequisites:

Grade for Entrance Previous Year (%)*73 to 76
These courses are intended as guidelines. Speak to your guidance counsellor to see what courses are offered at your school.

    • Hold a undergraduate degree in Communication, Legal Studies, Political Science or a related field, with a minimum overall academic standing of a B (GPA: 3.0 on a 4.3 scale or 73 to 76 per cent). Prospective applicants will be asked to demonstrate engagement with social innovation in their applications (e.g., through previous academic work, volunteer work, or work experience).
    • Prospective applicants with undergraduate degrees from other fields who are able to demonstrate an impressive level of social engagement (e.g., Health Science) will also be considered, such as applicants whose professional work experience as managers or policy analysts demonstrates aptitude for social policy-oriented work.
    Test Scores:
    • Canadian Academic English Language Assessment or Test of English as a Foreign Language (Internet Based) or International English Language Testing System (academic or immigration)
    Application Notes : Proof of English proficiency is needed from those applicants whose first language is not English, as per university regulations.
    Additional Admission Requirements:
    • Letter(s) of Reference
    • Resume/Curriculum Vitae
    • Statement of Research Interests
    Additional required supporting documents for MSPI applicants:

    • A resume or curriculum vitae (CV) including the applicant's education, employment history, volunteer experience, publications if applicable, and other notable achievements;
    • A sample of scholarly writing from an undergraduate course, or any other form of public communication (report, poster, video, performance, etc.) that was created for either an academic or other organizational audience;
    • Two Letters of Recommendation: One recommendation from a faculty member from a previous degree-conferring program is preferable; alternatively, a letter from an employer/professional leader who can speak to the candidate's analytical and communication skills will be accepted. The second recommendation may be from an academic or non-academic referee and should demonstrate the candidate's commitment to community engagement. The second recommendation should reflect the candidate's commitment to addressing social issues and may reference academic, work, or volunteer experiences; and
    • A two-page, double-spaced (approximately 500-word) statement of interest in the MSPI program and its Major Research Project (MRP) requirement. The statement should demonstrate commitment to the social engagement goals of the program and should set out the potential focus of the candidate's MRP. The statement should address academic, work, volunteer, or other experience that would contribute to the candidate's ability to successfully complete such a project.

    An admission interview may be required.


    Please see the checklist of required documents for a list of supporting documentation that must be submitted with your application.

    * The entrance grade may change from year to year. Please contact the school for further information.

    * We make every attempt to provide accurate information on prerequisites, programs, and tuition. However, this information is subject to change without notice and we highly recommend that you contact the school to confirm important information before applying.

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    Modified on September 29, 2025

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