Applied Legal Studies

This Master of Arts (MA) Program is for students intending to practice as Notaries Public in the province of British Columbia. The program prepares students for admission to notarial practice, subject to further requirements prescribed by the Society of Notaries Public of British Columbia, and for business and public service. The degree is granted upon the successful completion of the required number of courses and a final examination. 

The Society of Notaries Public of British Columbia governs the entry of individuals into notarial practice. Conferral of this degree is no guarantee of a position in the Society's post degree professional training programs or in notarial practice.

Completion of the Applied Legal Studies degree is a prerequisite for membership in the Society of Notaries Public.

Program Admission Requirements

For information about admission requirements and the application process, visit Master of Arts in Applied Legal Studies through the School of Criminology. 

Please note: satisfaction of the entrance requirements means only that an applicant is eligible for admission into the program. Admission is competitive—each year the number of applications we receive, which meet the admissions eligibility requirements, far exceeds the number of seats we have available in program. Applications are assessed on a holistic basis taking into account undergraduate GPA and required testing scores, but also employment and life experience.  

How to Apply

Go to the Master of Applied Legal Studies admission requirements to learn more about the application process.

The Fall 2023 intake is now complete.

Applications for the Fall 2024 intake will be accepted November 1st, 2023 to February 1st, 2024.

"The MA ALS program is a challenging full-time program. But I am proof that it can be done if you are dedicated, give yourself the time and space to do well, and prioritize your success in the program. At the core of the Notary profession, you need to genuinely care about people. People may come to your office at times when they are vulnerable, faced with crucial decisions, and in need your assistance and support. People are often intimidated by legal services of any kind, and a good Notary plays a vital role in explaining and demystifying those processes, translating knowledge to help people feel more secure and safe, and making legal knowledge accessible."

Franca Muraca

2019 Graduating Class | Master of Arts in Applied Legal Studies

Interested in applying?

Learn more about the admission requirements and application process.

Learn more

Get in touch

Got questions? Contact Dr. Margaret Hall, Director of Applied Legal Studies

Program website

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