UofC

Research-based programs include thesis-based programs and research master’s programs. Research master’s include a significant research component, and would normally be considered acceptable preparation for a PhD program. Some course-based MA and MSc programs are considered research master’s programs. These are designated as such in the program’s calendar entry.

Students registered in research master’s and doctoral programs will be considered full-time unless their program formally offers a part-time option, by listing the option under their respective program entry in this calendar, and approves the student for a part-time registration status on an annual basis.

Full-time registration in PhD and research master's programs is not compatible with full-time employment. Students enrolled full-time in these programs must devote sufficient time and effort to maintain progress and meet milestones in order to maintain their registration and remain eligible for financial support. They must engage fully in their degree program, including coursework, field or laboratory work, and thesis writing. Only professional doctoral programs such as the DBA, DDes or EdD are designed to be compatible with full-time employment.

Students in course-based credentials (i.e., certificates, diplomas or master’s degrees) will be considered full-time if they enrol in 6 units or more per term during each of the Fall and Winter Terms and 3 units or more per term during each of the Spring and Summer Terms.

b) Part-Time Students

Students enrolled in course-based credentials (i.e., certificates, diplomas or master’s degrees) are considered part-time when they register in fewer than 6 units per term in the Fall and Winter Terms or fewer than 3 units per term in the Spring and Summer Terms.

Enrolment in additional courses will require a change in status to full-time enrolment.

A change from part-time to full-time status will require program approval indicating satisfactory progress for full-time registration. It will also require that students pay the full-time general fees for the full year retroactive to their annual registration term.

Changes to full-time/part-time status must be submitted to the Faculty of Graduate Studies on a Change of Registration Status form. Forms are available on the Faculty of Graduate Studies website at: grad.ucalgary.ca/current-students/registration. Any changes to registration status must be requested prior to the fee payment deadline.