In Québec, cultural animation’s recognition is related to that of its training programs, including the undergraduate program in animation et recherche culturelle (animation and cultural research) at UQAM. Even though this program has lived some difficult periods in its history, it is currently experiencing great popularity in terms of student enrolment. Between 2006 and 2008, an MA in cultural animation is planned in the wake of the success of the BA, but its development is blocked following questions raised during focus groups conducted with students, graduates and employers. How to understand this non-completion? How it participates in the recognition of cultural animation in Québec? This article is based on an analysis of the comments made by participants in the meetings organized within the preparation of the MA project and of the issues they raise.