Social & Political Thought
Note: Applicants to the PhD program are required to have a Master's degree (MA) for eligibility.
A truly interdisciplinary approach, this program aims to integrate intellectual interests common to the humanities and social sciences.
Founded in 1973, York’s graduate program in Social & Political Thought is the leading doctoral program of its kind in Canada. The program offers a highly independent, self-styled pattern of study.
You are encouraged to become creative scholars and teachers and to work independently. For this reason, only students who indicate they wish to complete such a program of independent study will normally be admitted.
Degrees Offered
MA
Program Component(s)
- Major research paper
- AND Oral examination
Minimum Required GPA
B+
Fall Entry
- Full-time
- Part-time
Deadline - Fall (All Applicants)
2025-12-01English Proficiency Requirement
| Minimum TOEFL (Paper-based) | 600 |
| Minimum TOEFL (Internet-based) | 100 |
| IELTS (Academic Module) | 7.5 |
| YUELI | Academic Program Level 9 with Distinction |
| YUELI Graduate Studies Preparation Program (GSPP) | Graduate with distinction |
| CAEL | Overall score of 70, no component score less than 60 |
| Minimum CPE Score | C |
| Minimum CAE Score | B |
| Duolingo | 140 |
| PTE Academic | 76 |
PhD
Program Component(s)
- Comprehensive examination (oral and written)
- AND Dissertation
Minimum Required GPA
B+
Fall Entry
- Full-time
- Part-time
Deadline - Fall (All Applicants)
2025-12-01English Proficiency Requirement
| Minimum TOEFL (Paper-based) | 600 |
| Minimum TOEFL (Internet-based) | 100 |
| IELTS (Academic Module) | 7.5 |
| YUELI | Academic Program Level 9 with Distinction |
| YUELI Graduate Studies Preparation Program (GSPP) | Graduate with distinction |
| CAEL | Overall score of 70, no component score less than 60 |
| Minimum CPE Score | C |
| Minimum CAE Score | B |
| Duolingo | 140 |
| PTE Academic | 76 |
Additional Admission Requirements
Number of Recommendation(s)
- 3 recommendation(s)
Other Requirements
- Resumé or CV
- Statement of interest, including Grad Course List
- Sample of writing
Connect with York University