Education Programs MA-EL & MWS-E at ICS

Admission Requirements & Modes of Study

Everything you need to know about applying to the MA in Educational Leadership or the Master of Worldview Studies in Education.

Admission Requirements

What you need before you apply

Both the MA-EL and MWS-E are designed for current Christian educators. The prerequisite for admission to either program is a four-year baccalaureate degree (or its equivalent), preferably with an undergraduate concentration related to education, and an overall average of B+.

Both programs also require proficiency in the English language. Details on language requirements can be found below.

MA-EL

Master of Arts in Educational Leadership

A research-focused master's degree for educators pursuing advanced scholarship, leadership roles, or doctoral preparation. Includes a sustained research project (the Praxis & Project) that serves as the program's thesis equivalent. 36 credit hours.

MWS-E

Master of Worldview Studies in Education

A practice-oriented master's degree for educators who want to deepen their worldview thinking and integrate faith into their professional work. Lighter, more affordable, and completed through a flexible online format. 30 credit hours.

Application Deadlines

Plan your start date

MA-EL
April 1 Summer or Fall start
November 1 Winter or Summer start

Two entry points per year

MWS-E
April 1 Summer start
August 1 Fall start
December 1 Winter start

Three entry points per year

Late Applications

Late applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis but will not usually be eligible for financial aid. Contact the Academic Registrar with questions about your particular situation.

Application Checklist

What you will need to submit

A complete application to either the MA-EL or MWS-E must include the following components. You may submit items separately. After your inquiry, the Academic Registrar will walk you through each step.

  • Completed application form for the relevant program (MA-EL or MWS-E)
  • Purpose statement of 500 to 1,000 words explaining how the program fits with your educational and professional goals
  • Official transcripts sent directly from the issuing institution
  • Two letters of academic or professional reference and one letter of personal reference
  • Academic writing sample or sample of professional work

Modes of Study

Flexible options for working educators

Full-Time

Full-time equivalency equals six semester courses per academic year (for example, three courses in the fall and three in the winter). A complete application must be submitted by the relevant deadline to be considered for admission.

Part-Time

Part-time students must complete the full application process if they wish to work toward a degree. It is strongly recommended that those in full-time employment limit their enrolment to one course per term.

Special Studies

ICS welcomes educators who wish to take individual courses for their own professional development without committing to a full degree. A four-year baccalaureate degree (or equivalent) is required. Contact the Academic Registrar for details.

Non-Degree Courses

Individuals intending to apply to a program may take a couple of courses for credit before committing. These courses can later be credited toward the degree. Non-degree students must complete a Course Registration Form, available from the Academic Registrar.

English Language Proficiency

Both the MA-EL and MWS-E require proficiency in the English language. If English is not your first language, you will need to provide proof of proficiency as part of your application.

Learn About Language Requirements

Credit Transfer

Previously completed graduate courses

Applicants who have completed courses at other institutions may request a credit transfer. ICS will accept a maximum of two credit transfers provided the courses are deemed to be of an appropriate academic level and fit into the applicant's program. Credits will not be transferred from programs of study previously completed and for which a degree was already granted.

Ready to Begin?

Whether you are drawn to the research depth of the MA-EL or the flexible, practice-focused MWS-E, your journey as a worldview-grounded educator starts here.

Questions About Your Application?

The Academic Registrar is happy to walk you through the process, answer questions about admission requirements, or help you decide which program is the right fit.

Email academic-registrar@icscanada.edu
← Back to Educational Leadership at ICS