Arts Degree (BA) + Master’s Degree (MA, MAP or MIPP)

Earn a Bachelor of Arts (BA) from Wilfrid Laurier University with a conditional offer of admission to a coursework-based master’s program.  
 
This program offers a clear, supported pathway from a BA to a master's degree for students committed to future graduate studies. Complete both degrees in just five years while developing advanced knowledge and leadership skills. Graduates are prepared for advanced career opportunities across a wide range of fields. 

Program Details

Discover what makes this Laurier program unique and how you'll gain real-world experience.

Why Should I Choose This Program?

Your future professors work hard to make sure your academic experience is current, complete and designed to open doors in your career. Here are a few things you can count on:

How Will I Gain Real-World Experience?

Here are just a few of our students’ favourite ways to apply their learning in the real world throughout their degree (check out the Experience Guide for each BA program for even more):

  • Gain Teaching Experience
    During the senior years of your undergraduate degree, apply to instructional assistant positions for courses in the Faculty of Arts to gain teaching experience and deepen your expertise.
  • Excel in Grad Studies
    In your Master's degree, develop leadership and professional skills in training and development workshops offered across campus, including Laurier’s nationally acclaimed ASPIRE program.
  • Ensure a Supportive Start
    Ease your transition into university with our first-year courses, AF105S (Skills) and AF105W (Writing). These courses help you build the foundations for academic success and develop key skills in time management, critical thinking, research and writing.

BA + Master's Degree Structure

Apply to one program and graduate with two degrees with this multi-degree pathway.

What is an Arts Degree (BA) and Master's Degree Program?

If you're successful in your application to the Arts Degree (BA) and Master's Degree program, you'll receive two conditional offers of admission:

  • One to undergraduate studies (BA) in Anthropology, Communication Studies, English, Film Studies, Global Studies, History, Languages, Political Science, Religion and Culture, or Women and Gender Studies; and
  • One to a Master's degree in the same field as your undergraduate program.

This means that if you decide to continue your studies at the graduate level, you don’t need to apply to the master's program at Laurier because you’ve already received a conditional offer of admission. You will begin your master's program after you graduate from your BA degree program.

Program Options

Admissions

  • Format: full time
  • Duration: five years
  • Start: September (fall term) or January (winter term)

Career Options

It’s not only about the journey; it’s about the destination. Let us help you get to where you’re going.

What Jobs Can I Get After Graduation?

Our BA + master's degree graduates go on to a wide range of rewarding careers. Here are just a few examples:

  • wideadvocacy research coordinator
  • communication and change management lead
  • cultural navigator consultant
  • digital marketing content writer
  • global learning programs coordinator
  • museum interpreter
  • policy analyst
  • portfolio coordinator
  • project manager
  • research and data analyst

Note: Additional training and education may be required.

Will I Be Supported After Graduation?

As a Laurier alum, you'll have access to Career and Employment Support offered at Laurier for your entire career.

Tuition and Costs

What are the Tuition Fees and Costs for Arts at Laurier?

Below is a breakdown of tuition fees and expenses for Laurier Arts students for one year (or two terms) studying full time. Fees are based on 2026/27 rates and are subject to increase. All fees are shown in Canadian dollars.

Tuition Fees for Arts Students
Fee Type Domestic Students International Students
Tuition $6,180 $36,624
Student Fees $2,133
$4,018 with co-op
$3,082
$4,967 with co-op
Textbook Fees $500 $500

See a full breakdown of your first-year expenses.

Scholarships and Bursaries

When you apply to Laurier you’ll be automatically assessed for entrance scholarships (based on your final admission average) and for in-course scholarships in your upper years (based on your Laurier GPA from the previous academic year). We also offer more than 700 competitive scholarships and awards, which require separate applications and may be awarded throughout the academic year.

Learn more about the tuition costs for master’s programs and opportunities for funding and scholarships during your graduate studies.

Additional Financial Support

  • Get information and advice on eligibility for government assistance (like OSAP) from our Financial Aid office.
  • Apply for bursaries to receive additional support based on financial need and academic performance.
  • Learn money management skills through courses, workshops and financial coaching.
  • Visit the Career Centre for support finding part-time job opportunities.

 

Laurier Arts graduates employed or in post‑graduate studies in 2025

 

Laurier students engaged in hands‑on learning in 2025/26

 

Laurier is among the top 7 percent in the Center for World University Rankings 2026

Waterloo Campus

The Waterloo campus is tucked into about one city block, so you’re steps away from your classes, food and your new favourite study spot. With more than 60 programs in arts, science, business and music, you can customize your degree, gain hands-on learning opportunities and join in the community beyond the classroom.

There are many ways to tour our Waterloo campus, whether that's on a guided tour with one of our Laurier student ambassadors, on your own using virtual reality, or even on-demand through one of our pre-recorded tours. See our campus spaces and start to picture yourself at Laurier.

students in a classroom

How Will I Learn in This Program?

This is primarily an in-person program, meaning you'll attend classes on campus and learn face-to-face with professors and classmates. When you register for courses, you'll be able to select from available sections and create your timetable. 
 
In-person delivery gives you direct access to faculty, hands-on learning opportunities and a traditional university student experience.

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Get in Touch

Have questions? Email chooselaurier@wlu.ca, call 548‑889‑8888 or see all contact information.


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Think this program might be the perfect fit for you and your future?