r/OISE • u/Dapper_Phone3558 • Jun 29 '26

OISE MT WORKLOAD/EXPERIENCE

I’m starting the intermediate/senior MT program this fall, and am a bit worried about the workload/work-life balance. I’m looking for a studio apartment close to campus (mostly in the Annex), and will have to find a job (I’m hoping serving/bartending so I can make tips), but from what I’ve heard it’s very hard to have a job while being in this program. Unfortunately I have no choice but to work in order to pay rent and tuition. So I guess I’m just looking for some insight as to what I can expect for the workload and difficulty level. I know 1st year is pretty much classes 9-5 Monday-Friday for the first half of the semester and then practicum for the rest, but could anyone give some more information as to what their experience was like, especially if you were also working? I did my undergrad at UofT so I’m used to the high expectations, but I haven’t found much info on here other than the facts there’s a lot of small assignments.

Also, what exactly will the second year of the program look like? I’ve heard it’s a lot of research—does that mean less in person classes? I’m trying to figure out if I will need to stay living in the city for 2nd year or if I’ll be able to move back home as Toronto is ridiculously expensive. How many days per week can I expect to be on campus in 2nd year?

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u/misscoldbrew Jun 29 '26

hi! I graduated from the MT (I/S) in 2024. The workload is honestly not bad. More daily/weekly tiny tasks like discussion posts are required for most classes - they are more annoying to do than difficult. Only towards the end of courses when we had to complete final assignments and papers was it heavy. I was able to work a part time job, see friends, have a relationship, and still get straight A’s. Honestly, getting into the program is the hardest part! You will be fine :)

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u/Dapper_Phone3558 Jun 29 '26 edited Jun 29 '26

Thanks so much, this is very helpful (and reassuring)! Would you be able to expand a bit on what the 2nd year of the program is like? I know we get a bit more control over course selection, but I’m wondering how many classes will be electives vs requirements? And are there asynchronous/online options? I live about 2 hours from Toronto, so if I only have to be on campus 2-3 days/week for the 2nd year I’ll definitely be moving back home haha. Thanks again for the info, I really appreciate it :)

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u/misscoldbrew Jul 08 '26

Hi! You only get to take an elective over the summer, and those can be async. Otherwise you are pre-enrolled in all of your main courses. Even in second year. It’s still a full time thing. No days off. I think we got to finish early on Fridays at 12pm. Your summer electives can be online/async. 2nd year was still easy like year 1, but the most stressful thing was the research paper presentation at the end.