Course at a Glance
- MasterDegree level
- 9 termsDuration
- Vancouver, CanadaLocation
- Faculty of Arts and Social SciencesField of study
- EnglishLanguage of instruction
- VancouverCampus
- Master of ArtsAwards
- Tuition on request — ask our teamFees
- AvailableScholarship
About this programme
This program, which leads to a master of arts in liberal studies (MALS), is for adults returning to part-time study. The program, which is affiliated with the department of humanities, is offered at Simon Fraser University Vancouver during evening and weekend hours.
Read more
In the tradition of liberal education, the program addresses some of the great works of our intellectual and artistic heritage, studies the perennial concerns that have shaped our culture, and explores contemporary perspectives on traditional ideas and values. The interdisciplinary seminars offer wide reading, careful reflection, and intense discussion. They are taught by faculty who are chosen for their expertise and teaching excellence, and for their interest in interdisciplinary studies. The program emphasizes a community of inquiry and discussion over independent research and entails several special expectations within the graduate study general regulations. Students should expect to participate in out-of-class activities, such as pre-class dinners, that encourage interchange and enhance intellectual community. Approved for part-time study, the program is designed for individuals having other obligations, and who may for that reason require greater or lesser amounts of time to complete the program.
Is this course right for you?
Our counsellors check your profile against this programme's entry criteria and tell you where you stand — before you pay anything.
What we look at
- Your subject background and grades
- Your English score, or how to get one
- Budget, including living costs
University & programme
Canada- Listed from the catalogueNot yet staff-verified — ask us to confirm the details.
- English requirementIELTS Overall 6.5
- Study modefull-time
Admissions checklist
Entry requirements
Applicants must satisfy the university admission requirements as stated in Graduate General Regulations 1.3 in the SFU Calendar. In addition to the normal graduate admission requirements, applicants must satisfy the liberal studies graduate program committee of academic suitability requirements and demonstrate readiness through reference letters, written work samples, and normally an interview. Exceptionally, the graduate program committee may recommend admission to those who do not meet normal requirements but whose strong credentials and demonstrated competence due to prior experience, are particularly suited. || University-level requirement: Applicants must satisfy the university admission requirements for graduate study in the SFU Fall 2026 Calendar (Graduate Admission / Graduate General Regulations 1.3) as well as the programme requirements on the programme page. English is the language of instruction and communication; an applicant whose primary language is not English must demonstrate command of English sufficient to pursue graduate studies in the chosen field. Source: SFU Fall 2026 Calendar, Graduate Admission. · English: IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0); TOEFL iBT 90; PTE Academic 65; Duolingo English Test 125 · English test waiver: International applicants are not required to complete an English-language test if they have completed a degree at an institution where the language of instruction and examination was English, in a country where English is the primary language. An applicant may also request a waiver in writing with their application, but SFU states that in order to maintain a high academic standard very few waivers are granted. · Application fee: CAD 112.00 (graduate application fee); CAD 160.00 where an international transcript evaluation is required (CAD 112 + CAD 48)
The usual set for this level. Your counsellor confirms the exact list for this university.
- Academic transcripts
- English test score (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Passport copy
- Statement of purpose (optional)
- Recommendation letters (optional)
Cost & scholarships
- TuitionTuition on request — ask our team
- Living costsVary by city — see the destination guide.
- ScholarshipsSFU administers internal and donor-funded graduate awards, Tri-Agency and government awards and external awards through the Faculty of Graduate Studies. SourceView scholarship page
Application timeline
Typical timings. Deadlines differ per university and intake.
- 1Prepare documents1–2 weeks
- 2Submit application1–3 weeks
- 3Receive offer letter2–6 weeks
- 4Apply for visa4–8 weeks
Visa & support journey
- Offer letterFrom the university
- Visa guidanceExpert support
- Pre-departureAccommodation & travel
- Ongoing supportEven after you arrive
Student stories
Real students. Real results.
- Average rating
- 4.9
- Google reviews
- 360+
- Rated five stars
- 95%
Average rating
Google reviews
Rated five stars
“I would like to express my gratitude for the excellent assistance provided during my student visa process. The team was responsive, knowledgeable, and supportive at every stage, from document preparation to submission guidance. Their clear communication and professional approach made the process much easier and more efficient.”
1 / 8
Nihad K, 5 out of 5 stars
Every review below is a real Google review — see all of them
Frequently asked questions
What English score does it need?
IELTS 6.5 overall is the score listed for this programme.
How long is it?
9 terms, as listed by the university.
What are the entry requirements?
Applicants must satisfy the university admission requirements as stated in Graduate General Regulations 1.3 in the SFU Calendar. In addition to the normal graduate admission requirements, applicants must satisfy the liberal studies graduate program committee of academic suitability requirements and demonstrate readiness through reference letters, written work samples, and normally an interview. Exceptionally, the graduate program committee may recommend admission to those who do not meet normal requirements but whose strong credentials and demonstrated competence due to prior experience, are particularly suited. || University-level requirement: Applicants must satisfy the university admission requirements for graduate study in the SFU Fall 2026 Calendar (Graduate Admission / Graduate General Regulations 1.3) as well as the programme requirements on the programme page. English is the language of instruction and communication; an applicant whose primary language is not English must demonstrate command of English sufficient to pursue graduate studies in the chosen field. Source: SFU Fall 2026 Calendar, Graduate Admission. · English: IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0); TOEFL iBT 90; PTE Academic 65; Duolingo English Test 125 · English test waiver: International applicants are not required to complete an English-language test if they have completed a degree at an institution where the language of instruction and examination was English, in a country where English is the primary language. An applicant may also request a waiver in writing with their application, but SFU states that in order to maintain a high academic standard very few waivers are granted. · Application fee: CAD 112.00 (graduate application fee); CAD 160.00 where an international transcript evaluation is required (CAD 112 + CAD 48)
Is there a scholarship?
SFU administers internal and donor-funded graduate awards, Tri-Agency and government awards and external awards through the Faculty of Graduate Studies. Source View scholarship page
Ready to apply?
Get expert guidance and take the first step towards your global education.
Free counselling · No application fee to enquire · Reply within 24h