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Brianne Casey
One application, two degrees: Laurier student develops future-ready skills in BA+MA program

One application, two degrees: Laurier student develops future-ready skills in BA+MA program

April 11, 2022

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The Bachelor of Arts + Master’s (BA+MA) program at Wilfrid Laurier University has been the perfect fit for fourth-year History student Brianne Casey.

As a BA+MA student, Casey can complete two degrees in five years without having to apply separately for admission into a Master of Arts program in History. BA+MA programs at Laurier are also available English and Applied Politics. The program is ideal for academically inclined students like Casey, who knew in high school that she wanted to obtain a master’s degree.

“We see the professionalization of our students as they progress through the program. They are developing advanced writing, research and analytical skills – important skills to have in today’s information-centric landscape.”

Students in the BA+MA program have access to unique mentoring and professional development opportunities, including those offered by Laurier’s nationally acclaimed ASPIRE program, which offers skills and professionalization training to graduate students.

"Having a graduate degree gives you an edge and helps you focus your skills and expertise,” says Casey, who identifies as Métis. “I have made great connections with professors and have had the opportunity to work with primary resources while learning about Indigenous history, which I am passionate about. I cannot say enough good things about my experience in the BA+MA program.”

Casey worked with a variety of primary sources while researching the perceptions about Indigenous peoples in western Canada compared to current realities for a fourth-year seminar course on 20th-century Canadian history. She also transcribed court martial documents from 19th-century British India while working as a research assistant for Associate Professor Amy Milne-Smith.

Applications doubled

David Smith, associate professor and chair of the Department of History at Laurier’s Waterloo campus, says applications to the BA+MA program are on the rise. Applications to the program for the 2022-23 academic year have doubled over the 2021-22 academic year.

“Students want an exceptional academic experience with added value and the BA+MA program offers that,” says Smith. “We see the professionalization of our students as they progress through the program. They are developing advanced writing, research and analytical skills – important skills to have in today’s information-centric landscape.”

While many graduates of Laurier’s BA+MA program choose to pursue doctoral studies, Smith says others begin their careers in education among other industries. Enhanced qualifications such as a master’s degree increase a teacher’s starting salary.

Students in the BA+MA program also have the option to customize their degrees by pursuing a minor or an option in areas including international policy, education, legal studies and communication studies, among others.

Applicants interested in learning more about the BA+MA program at Laurier can email chooselaurier@wlu.ca.

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