Introduction to Acadia University's Graduate Programs

Acadia University offers a range of graduate programs designed to advance students' knowledge, skills, and abilities in preparation for successful professional careers. The programs focus on collaborative learning within dynamic environments that combine intensive study with practical, community-engaged learning.

Applied Kinesiology Program

The Master of Applied Kinesiology degree at Acadia University is designed to develop students' knowledge, skills, and abilities in preparation for successful professional careers. The program offers three streams: Applied Research, Coaching, and Exercise.

Applied Research Stream

The thesis-based Applied Research Stream aims to develop students' knowledge, skills, and abilities to conduct intensive research. Students work in research laboratories and have access to nationally recognized community-based programming.

Coaching Stream

The non-thesis, course-based Coaching Stream aims to develop students' knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in coaching and leadership environments in sports. Students are immersed in a learning environment with other coaches and coaching experts.

Exercise Stream

The non-thesis, course-based Exercise Stream aims to develop students' knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed in professional exercise practice environments. Students participate in practical community-engaged learning opportunities and explore areas of practice in high-performance sport, musculoskeletal injury prevention, and more.

Program Requirements

• Candidates for admission to the graduate programs must possess an Honours degree or a four-year bachelor's degree from an approved university.
• Students must have at least a B- average (70%) in the courses taken in their major field in the last two undergraduate years.
• Admission is highly competitive, and the number of students admitted each cycle or year may vary depending on the applicant pool and resource availability.

Admission Requirements

• Candidates must have at least a B- average (70%) in the courses taken in their major field in the last two undergraduate years.
• Applicants to all MEd programs must have at least a B average (73-76%) in the final two years of full-time equivalent university study.
• Two years of paid, full-time equivalent, post-degree teaching or related experience is required for some programs.

Tuition Fees

• Graduate fees for Nova Scotian students: $10,195.92 (MA program, 1-year) to $7,145.10 (MSc/MSc CS, 2-year programs) per year.
• Graduate fees for Canadian students: $10,604.58 (MA program, 1-year) to $7,431.60 (MSc/MSc CS, 2-year programs) per year.
• Graduate fees for international students: $24,233.10 (MA program, 1-year) to $16,881.98 (MSc/MSc CS, 2-year programs) per year.

Program at a Glance

• Courses take place in-person at Acadia University.
• The program duration is typically two years, with various course requirements and research opportunities.

Year One - First Term

• KINE 5023 - Professional Development Seminar
• KINE 5033 - Directed Reading
• ELECTIVE - from any Faculty

Year One - Second Term

• KINE 5013 - Advanced Research Methods in Kinesiology
• KINE 5313 - Advanced Directed Reading
• ELECTIVE - in Research Methods

Year Two - First Term

• KINE 596T - Thesis
• ELECTIVE - in Research Methods

Year Two - Second Term

• KINE 596T - Thesis

Guidelines for Students from Various Countries

• Specific GPA requirements and admission criteria apply to students from different countries, including Canada, the United States, Afghanistan, Australia, and more.

Program-Specific Requirements

• Some programs have additional requirements, such as letters of intent, research statements, or samples of written work.
• Students are advised to contact their prospective supervisor directly at the time of application.

Conclusion

Acadia University's graduate programs, including the Master of Applied Kinesiology, offer students a comprehensive education and preparation for successful professional careers. With various streams and specializations, students can choose the program that best aligns with their interests and goals.

Degree Overview:

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Objectives:

• Advance your knowledge, skills, and abilities in preparation for successful professional careers.
• Focus on collaborative learning within a dynamic learning environment.
• Combine intensive study with practical, community-engaged learning.

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Description:

This program focuses on applying research to improve the health and performance of individuals and communities.

• The program offers three different streams to choose from:
• Thesis-based Applied Research Stream:
This stream aims to develop your research skills and abilities by conducting intensive research. You will work in research laboratories and gain experience with community-based programming.
• Non-thesis, course-based Coaching Stream: This stream aims to develop your coaching and leadership skills in sports by immersing you in a learning environment with other coaches and coaching experts.
• Non-thesis, course-based Exercise Stream: This stream aims to develop your knowledge and skills to succeed in professional exercise practice in various environments such as general health, performance in sport, occupation, and clinical settings across the lifespan.

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Other:

• The program combines rigorous academic coursework with real-world experience to prepare graduates for diverse career opportunities across health, fitness, and sports industries.
• The program offers an interdisciplinary approach that combines knowledge from different fields such as kinesiology, health sciences, education, and psychology.
• Graduates of the program are equipped to make meaningful contributions to the health and well-being of individuals and communities.
## Outline: ### Thesis-based Applied Research Stream

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Year One:

• Fall Term: Professional Development Seminar, Directed Reading
• Spring Term: Advanced Research Methods in Kinesiology, Advanced Directed Reading, Elective in Research methods

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Year Two:

• Fall Term: Thesis
• Spring Term: Thesis

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Other:

• The research will be conducted within a faculty member's laboratory and/or within a community-based organization.
• Topics include: health & performance; physical activity & health; exercise prescription & program design; motor development; sport psychology; biomechanics; adapted physical activity; health promotion & behavior change; nutrition & metabolism; and athletic therapy & rehabilitation.
### Non-thesis, course-based Coaching Stream

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Year One:

• Fall Term: Professional Development Seminar, Leadership, Elective from any Faculty
• Spring Term: Advanced Research Methods in Kinesiology, Directed Reading, Coaching Readiness and Effectiveness
• Summer Term: Coaching Practicum

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Year Two:

• Fall Term: Elective from any Faculty, Coaching Practicum
• Spring Term: Elective from any Faculty, Capping Project

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Other:

• The program includes various core courses:
• Professional Development Seminar
• Advanced Research Methods in Kinesiology
• Coaching Readiness and Effectiveness
• Leadership in Coaching
• Psychology of Coaching
• Biomechanics of Human Movement
• Motor Learning and Control
• Exercise Physiology
• Sport Nutrition
• Sport Psychology
## Assessment:

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Thesis-based Applied Research Stream:

• Your academic performance will be assessed in the following ways:
• Participation in seminars and tutorials
• Completion of assignments and presentations
• Performance in written examinations
• Thesis proposal defense
• Thesis defense

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Non-thesis, course-based Coaching Stream:

• Your academic performance will be assessed in the following ways:
• Assignments and projects
• Participation in group discussions
• Case studies
• Midterm and final examinations
• Coaching practicum evaluations
• Capping project presentation

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Non-thesis, course-based Exercise Stream:

• Your academic performance will be assessed in the following ways:
• Participation in classes and labs
• Assignments and projects
• Midterm and final examinations
• Professional placement evaluations
## Teaching:
• The program utilizes various teaching methods such as lectures, seminars, tutorials, laboratory sessions, and field trips.
• The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are active researchers and experts in their respective fields.
• The program fosters a collaborative learning environment where students are encouraged to engage in active discussion and problem-solving.
## Careers:
• The program prepares graduates for a wide range of career opportunities within the health and fitness industry.
• Potential career paths include:
• Research scientist
• Exercise physiologist
• Strength and conditioning coach
• Sport psychologist
• Athletic therapist
• Adapted physical activity specialist
• Health promotion officer
• Fitness consultant
• Personal trainer
• Teacher/educator
• The program also provides graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue further graduate studies.
## Other:
• The program offers students the opportunity to participate in various research projects within the KPE department or in partnership with community organizations.
• The program also provides students with the opportunity to volunteer or gain work experience in a variety of settings relevant to their area of interest.
• The program has strong industry connections which provide students with networking opportunities and potential job placements.

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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.