# Understanding graduate studies

**Source**: https://grad.ucalgary.ca/future-students/graduate/discover-opportunities/understanding-graduate-studies
**Parent**: https://grad.ucalgary.ca/

Build on your previous education under the mentorship of some of the top minds in your field.

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## Choose your path: specialized expertise or professional development

There are two types of master’s degrees: those that focus on research (thesis-based) and those that are intended to prepare you for advanced professional practice (course-based). Your choice will depend on your own study preferences and professional goals.

If you are self-motivated and interested in developing your knowledge in a specialized area of research, thesis-based study is ideal. With this option, you can pursue research at the PhD level, work closely with a leader in your field and undertake a substantial research project. \*

The course-based path may appeal to you if you are more interested in advancing your professional skillset. Some course-based master’s degrees are intended for students who have recently completed a bachelor’s degree, while others may require prior work experience for admission.

After completing a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree is normally the next step, though it’s sometimes possible to move directly into a PhD.

\*Note: Some course-based research degrees allow you to pursue a PhD.

## Course-based study

#### [What is a course-based program?](#collapse376176345)

In a course-based program, all degree requirements are fulfilled by completing courses. These may include courses that involve a project, such as a major research paper or group project.

#### [How many courses are required per year?](#collapse1048037951)

A full course load consists of three to six courses per term, or six to 12 three-unit courses per year. Part-time enrollment is possible in some programs.

#### [How long will a course-based program take to complete?](#collapse1385425003)

Most course-based master's programs are designed to be completed in one to two years full-time, and up to a maximum of six years part-time.

## Thesis-based study

#### [What is a thesis-based program?](#collapse1335537146)

Thesis-based programs require that you pursue independent and original research culminating in a thesis. You will work under the supervision of a faculty member whose expertise matches your research area.

#### [What is a thesis?](#collapse864319064)

Students must prepare a substantial research document that makes an original scholarly contribution to their field. A PhD thesis is often called a dissertation. Doctoral and master's students must also defend their thesis in front of an examination committee.

#### [How long will a thesis-based program take to complete?](#collapse1746691589)

A thesis-based master's programs typically takes two years to complete, with a maximum of four years. A doctoral program will take four years, up to a maximum of six years.

### Graduate Supervisors for thesis-based students

**What is a supervisor?**\
A supervisor is a faculty member who oversees your research and the development of your thesis.

**When do I need one?**\
Some graduate programs require students obtain a supervisor prior to application, whereas other programs will assign a supervisor upon admission.

**The student/supervisor relationship**\
Your supervisor’s research interests should be similar to your own, and they should be prepared to provide mentorship throughout your time in grad school.

[How to find a graduate supervisor](https://grad.ucalgary.ca/find-a-graduate-supervisor)

## Live on campus

UCalgary has a range of on-campus housing options for grad students, as well as services to find housing off-campus.

[Learn more about our residences](https://grad.ucalgary.ca/future-students/student-life/living-campus)

## Explore programs

Visit our Explore Programs page to learn more about graduate programs at the University of Calgary.

[More than 225 graduate credentials](https://grad.ucalgary.ca/future-students/explore-programs)