 Migration has been a central feature of our human story for thousands of years. But as the world becomes more connected and politics respond, we face new questions about the social, economic, cultural, and political implications of the movement of people and transnationalism more generally. The MA and graduate diploma programs in migration and diaspora studies at Carleton University are designed to equip students with the tools needed to answer these questions and to engage with the various dimensions of the migration and diaspora experience today. Part of what makes MDS unique is that it originated as a research collective of over 40 faculty from across the university. In keeping with that spirit of interdisciplinarity, the core course exposes students to perspectives not only from the social sciences, but also from the humanities. Students discover how the creative arts are reshaping the stories that we tell about migration and diaspora. What drew me to the migration and diaspora studies program is the amazing faculty and staff. They provide a lot of opportunities for growth and they're very passionate about the research that they do. They're also leading experts in their field and are very willing to share their expertise. Our MA program gives students the chance to pick the path that's right for you. You can complete the program through coursework alone or by including a thesis or a major research project if there's a topic that you want to explore in greater depth. The MA program also includes the opportunity for students to complete a co-op option and all graduate students can complete a practicum placement with an organization that's engaged in the practical realities of the migration and diaspora experience. And MDS is this really wonderful multifaceted program that is so connected with every aspect of our world. We see it reflected in the kinds of policy studies that students undertake but also the humanities and really we see ourselves entangled and caught up in all kinds of contemporary and historical events. And so one of the really wonderful things is that students can take advantage of these different opportunities or internships but there's also just a number of different program streams that really allow students to pursue what they're interested in and develop new skills and talents. Art and inspiration will entice you to want to pursue research domestically or internationally with a faculty that is passionate about supporting students to blaze new trails and innovative research. Fieldwork opportunities are only limited by your ingenuity. The faculty is here to help you develop your research skills and confidence. Additionally, since Ottawa is the capital, MDS provides opportunities to join change-making organizations in the sphere through internships and practicums such as with the UNHCR. Being a part of the MDS program provided me with extensive and unique opportunities to develop and tailor my research and my preferred field of study. The diverse academic backgrounds and personal experiences of my peers, mentors and other faculty members opened up so many avenues for understanding migration at the international and domestic levels. And aside from the new knowledge I gained, as an MDS student, I built close relationships with my friends and other colleagues and was able to establish networking opportunities outside of school. When I applied to the Migration Diaspora Studies, I was working at the United Nations Refugee Agency in Iran supporting and assisting Afghan refugees. My goal was to learn more, to enhance my contributions to refugee responses. I'm very happy to be part of this program. It's really diverse. The topics align with the work experience I had and also with the current global events. Choosing this program was the perfect choice. It is just what I hoped for. And this program will enable you to succeed in future professional opportunities regardless of the course pathway you choose. It revered me to enter the Canadian workforce as a researcher at the Association for Canadian Studies Metropolis Institute and eventually transition into the civil service at the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada. Similarly to how your academic interests may change throughout your time on campus, this program will enable you to follow your professional curiosities that will continue to evolve well beyond your time on campus. So if you're looking for a graduate program that explores the social, economic, cultural and political implications of the movement of people and transnationalism more generally, join us in the Migration and Diaspora Studies program at Carleton University. We're now accepting applications for our MA and graduate diploma programs. Please get in touch with us with any questions that you have. We look forward to hearing from you.