Introduction to Acadia University's Graduate Programs

Acadia University offers a range of graduate programs designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in their chosen field. The university is committed to providing a supportive and personalized learning environment, with small class sizes and high faculty-to-student interaction.

Graduate Program Entrance Requirements

Candidates for admission to the graduate programs of Acadia University must possess an Honours degree or a four-year bachelor's degree from an approved university. Those candidates possessing a major in a field other than that of their graduate program will normally be required to take sufficient undergraduate courses to make up the equivalent of an Acadia undergraduate major. Special consideration may be given to those candidates wishing to change from one undergraduate field to a related graduate one.

Program Requirements

The following programs are offered at Acadia University:

• Geomatics: Candidates for admission to this program must possess an Honours degree, or a four-year Bachelor's degree, or its equivalent, from an approved university. Undergraduate degrees in Biology, Earth and Environmental Science, and Physical Geography are most compatible with this degree.
• Chemistry: You must possess an honours degree, or a four-year bachelor's degree (or its equivalent) from an approved university. Students holding degrees with high academic standing in fields that are closely related to Chemistry (such as Biology, Physics, Geology, and Engineering) may also be accepted for graduate work in Chemistry, although you may be asked to take additional course work to improve your background in Chemistry.
• Biology: We place emphasis on research rather than course work. Individual programs of study are determined by your supervisor and committee.
• Computer Science: To apply, you need to possess a 4-year undergraduate degree in computer science (course and project routes). The thesis route requires an Honours undergraduate computer science degree.
• Community Development: We seek applications from excellent graduating and mature students with a range of Bachelor's degrees who are interested in an intensive, self-directed, and engaging program.
• Master of Education: All applicants must meet the minimum graduate admission criteria as outlined below and should carefully note the program-specific information under Additional Admission Requirement(s).
• Masters of Education - Counselling: At the time you apply, you must possess a four-year undergraduate degree with a B (73 - 76%) average in the final two years of study.
• English: Applicants for admission should hold a BA Honours degree in English or equivalent.
• Environmental Science: Candidates for admission to this program must possess an Honours degree, or a four-year Bachelor's degree, or its equivalent, from an approved university.
• Geology: We usually accept only students who have completed undergraduate degrees in Geology with A grades.
• Applied Kinesiology: This program does not have specific admission requirements.
• Mathematics & Statistics: In addition to other admissions requirements, applicants must submit a brief statement of possible research interests and indicate whether they will be seeking an internship.
• Political Science: The current average threshold for admissions in our program is a Bachelor Degree in Political Science/Political Studies/Politics, with a minimum GPA of 3.50/4.00 in the last two years of full-time study.
• Psychology: To apply, you must have either an Honours degree in psychology or equivalent (i.e., an undergraduate degree majoring in psychology along with sufficient and relevant research experience).
• Social & Political Thought: We are interested in admitting a diversity of students with a common motivation and ability to pursue interdisciplinary, graduate-level theoretical work on society and/or politics.
• Sociology: In addition to the general admission requirements, applicants must have an Honours degree in sociology and a grade-point average of at least 3.55 in the last two years of their program.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees for graduate programs at Acadia University vary depending on the program and the student's residency status. The following fees are applicable for the 2023-2024 academic year:

• Graduate Fees for Nova Scotian Students:
  • MA Program (except MA SOPT) and MSC GEOM (1-year programs): $10,195.92
  • MSc/MSc CS (Thesis or Project)/M CODE/MA SOPT/MAK (per year, 2-year programs): $7,145.10
• Graduate Fees for Canadian Students:
  • MA Program (except MA SOPT) and MSC GEOM (1-year programs): $10,604.58
  • MSc/MSc CS (Thesis or Project)/M CODE/MA SOPT/MAK (per year, 2-year programs): $7,431.60
• Graduate Fees for International Students:
  • MA Program (except MA SOPT) and MSC GEOM (1-year programs): $24,233.10
  • MSc/MSc CS (Thesis or Project)/M CODE/MA SOPT/MAK (per year, 2-year programs): $16,881.98

Research Areas

The faculty members at Acadia University are engaged in a wide range of research areas, including:

• Paul Abela: Kant; Moral theory
• Andrew Biro: Critical theory; Environmental political theory; Political ecology/economy
• Rachel Brickner: Comparative political theory; Latin American politics
• James Brittain: Critical Development Studies; Latin American Society and Politics; Political Economy; Social Change and Revolution
• Jesse Carlson: Sociological theory, cultural sociology, morality, friendship
• Alice Cohen: Environmental geography, scales and boundaries, environmental policy and politics, political ecology, water governance and policy
• Can E. Mutlu: Science and technology studies, new materialisms, mobility, migration, security
• Kait Pinder: Literature and politics, aesthetics, arts in Canada
• Marc Ramsay: Ethics and philosophy of law
• Inna Viriasova: Continental political philosophy, critical theory, non-Western and Indigenous thought, post-humanism and new materialisms, biopolitics
• Geoffrey Whitehall: International political theory; Contemporary Political Thought; Discourses of Culture and Technology; Philosophy of Space and Time
• Ian Wilks: Medieval philosophy; Philosophy of religion; Ethics and bioethics

Conclusion

Acadia University's graduate programs offer students a unique opportunity to engage in advanced study and research in a supportive and personalized learning environment. With a range of programs to choose from, students can pursue their academic and professional goals in a variety of fields. The university's commitment to research and academic excellence makes it an ideal choice for students seeking to advance their knowledge and skills.

Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The Social and Political Thought (Master of Arts degree) at Acadia University provides a unique interdisciplinary experience in the realm of social and political life. Blending critical theory with active engagement, the program fosters a diverse community of students and faculty with varied research interests.

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Objectives:

• Encourage critical reflection on social and political issues.
• Enhance understanding of the connections between politics, philosophy, post-colonial thought, literary and media criticism, cultural and environmental studies, and gender studies.
• Foster interdisciplinary scholarship, research, and writing.
• Prepare graduates for successful careers in academia, government, media, social services, and other fields.

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Program Description:

• Housed within the Faculty of Arts at Acadia University.
• Focuses on the interconnectivity of various academic disciplines to analyze political and social life.
• Cultivates a collaborative learning environment through seminars, discussions, and interaction with research-active faculty.
• Requires the completion of a significant interdisciplinary thesis project.
## Outline:

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Course Structure:

• Two-year, full-time Masters program.
• Requires completion of 36-credit hours of coursework.
• Consists of a mix of core and elective courses.
• Opportunities to specialize in specific areas through directed readings and thesis research.

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Course Content:

• Year One:
• Required Courses (18 credit hours)
• Courses focused on critical theory and political thought.
• Introduction to social and political theory.
• Elective Courses (6 credit hours)
• Courses can be selected from any department in the Faculty of Arts or other faculties with the permission of the Graduate Program Advisor.
• Thesis Research (6 credit hours)
• Initial work on the interdisciplinary thesis project.

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Year Two:

• Required Courses (6 credit hours)
• Further thesis research under the supervision of a faculty member.

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Other:

• Weekly colloquia featuring presentations by faculty, visiting scholars, and students.

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Individual Modules:

• Each individual module focuses on a specific theme or topic related to social and political thought.
• Specific modules and topics offered may vary from year to year.
• Example modules could include:
• Political Economy
• Environmental Politics
• Critical Theory
• Feminist Theory
• Post-Colonial Studies
• Media and Culture
## Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• A combination of traditional methods like essays, exams, and presentations
• Continuous assessment throughout the program through active participation in seminars and discussions.

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Assessment Criteria:

• Demonstrating a strong understanding of course material.
• Engaging in critical analysis and insightful discussion.
• Presenting original research and arguments in a clear and articulate manner.
## Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• Interactive seminars, workshops, and group discussions.
• Opportunities for independent research under the guidance of experienced faculty members.
• Close collaboration among faculty and students through thesis supervision and project-based learning.

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Faculty:

• Comprised of renowned scholars recognized for their contributions to various fields within social and political thought.
• Faculty conduct research on a diverse range of topics, including:
• Climate Change and Environmental Politics
• Critical Race Theory
• Social Justice Movements
• Global Political Economy
• Digital Culture

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Unique Approaches:

• Emphasis on interdisciplinarity, encouraging students to explore connections between diverse fields of study.
• A vibrant and supportive academic community fostering collaboration and intellectual exchange.
## Careers:

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Possible Career Paths:

• Opportunities in academia as researchers, teachers, or policymakers.
• Employment in government and non-governmental organizations working on policy development and social justice issues.
• Careers in journalism, media, and communications.

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Career Outcomes:

• Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers in various fields including:
• Academia
• Government
• Non-profits
• NGOs
• Social services
• Media and communications
## Other:
• Admission Requirements:
• Open to applicants with a Bachelor’s degree in any field, with a minimum B-average.
• Requires submission of transcripts, references, a statement of research interests, and a writing sample.
• Fees:
• Tuition fees vary depending on residency status and program type.
• Detailed information on fees is available on the Acadia University website.
• Student Experience:
• The program boasts a supportive and friendly atmosphere, offering students a sense of community.
• Encourages engagement with research early on, providing opportunities to work closely with faculty.
• Provides access to various resources, including the K.C.
Irving Environmental Science Centre and the University Library.
• Offers opportunities to participate in conferences, workshops, and events related to social and political thought.
• Location:
• Located in the town of Wolfville, Nova Scotia, a charming and historical community with easy access to outdoor activities and amenities.

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Overview:

Acadia University is a renowned Canadian university established in 1838. It is consistently ranked as the top primarily undergraduate university in Nova Scotia and among the best in Canada. Acadia offers a unique experience compared to larger universities, with smaller class sizes, more interaction with professors, and opportunities for undergraduate research or co-op work terms.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Acadia provides a welcoming and supportive environment for students. The smaller size fosters a tight-knit community, allowing students to create a sense of home away from home. The campus is walkable, with most students living in residence or within a mile of campus. Acadia offers a range of student life supports, including academic advising, accessible learning services, tutoring, career and experiential learning, health and wellness services, housing and dining options, and campus life activities.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Small class sizes and personalized attention:

Acadia's smaller size allows for more individual attention from professors and a more intimate learning environment.

Opportunities for undergraduate research and co-op work terms:

Acadia provides students with opportunities to engage in research and gain practical experience through co-op programs.

Welcoming and supportive community:

The tight-knit community at Acadia fosters a sense of belonging and provides students with a strong support system.

Beautiful campus and town setting:

Acadia's campus is located in the charming town of Wolfville, offering a picturesque and walkable environment.

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Academic Programs:

Acadia offers over 200 combinations of degree programs across the faculties of Arts, Professional Studies, Pure and Applied Sciences, and Theology. Many programs include Honours or Co-op Education options.

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Other:

Acadia University is located in Mi'kma'ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaw nation.