These programs generally have a professional focus, and most require either one or two years of full-time course work. In addition, a number of Canadian universities offer master's programs via distance education. Most of these programs require at least some course work to be completed on campus. In addition to graduate programs, most universities offer a variety of other post-baccalaureate programs leading to professional degrees in areas such as law, medicine, veterinary medicine and pharmacy. Often, an internship or certification is required in order to obtain a license to practice in such fields.
Medical specialization requires additional study, internship and certification.
The search for your graduate program begins with a focus on the research and academic orientation of the university department in which you intend to study and on the scholarly achievements of its faculty members. When searching for a suitable graduate program, it is often more important to consider the reputation and strengths of the particular department and its faculty than those of the university as a whole. If your interest is in macro-economics, for example, be sure the department you're considering has expertise in this area of the discipline. If you are planning to enter a research-oriented master's program, you will typically choose your thesis topic in consultation with your supervisor. Some universities assign a team of supervisors to work with you during your first year of studies affording you an opportunity to get to know more about the interests and work habits of your faculty colleagues before you select a thesis supervisor in the second year.