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's small program size ensures a high degree of direct contact and engagement with supervisors, who guide students in their research and studies.

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 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. A minimum average of B- (70%) in the courses taken in the major field in the last two undergraduate years (or 60 credit hours) of university study is required.

Program Requirements

Each graduate program at Acadia University has its own set of requirements, which are outlined below:

Geomatics

• Candidates must possess an Honours degree or a four-year Bachelor's degree from an approved university.
• Undergraduate degrees in Biology, Earth and Environmental Science, and Physical Geography are most compatible with this degree.
• A minimum average of B- in relevant disciplines in the last two undergraduate years is required.

Chemistry

• An Honours degree or a four-year bachelor's degree (or its equivalent) from an approved university is required.
• Students holding degrees with high academic standing in fields closely related to Chemistry may also be accepted.
• A minimum average of B- (70%) in the courses taken in the major field in the last two undergraduate years is required.

Biology

• Emphasis is placed on research rather than coursework.
• Individual programs of study are determined by the supervisor and committee.
• The advisory committee consists of the supervisor and at least two other faculty members or research associates.

Computer Science

• A 4-year undergraduate degree in computer science (course and project routes) is required.
• The thesis route requires an Honours undergraduate computer science degree.
• Students required to make up more than three undergraduate computer science courses will not be admitted.

Community Development

• Applications are sought from excellent graduating and mature students with a range of Bachelor's degrees.
• The program is thesis-based, and students complete a number of courses while working in close cooperation with faculty on their research project.

Master of Education

• Applicants must meet the minimum graduate admission criteria.
• A B average (73-76%) in the final two years of full-time equivalent (60 credit hours) university study is required.
• Two years of paid, full-time equivalent, post-degree teaching or related experience is required.

Masters of Education - Counselling

• A four-year undergraduate degree with a B (73-76%) average in the final two years of study is required.
• The equivalent of two years of full-time, paid, relevant work experience is required.
• A personal reflection statement outlining motivations and aspirations in reference to the counselling program is required.

English

• Applicants should hold a BA Honours degree in English or equivalent.

Environmental Science

• Candidates must possess an Honours degree or a four-year Bachelor's degree from an approved university.
• Undergraduate degrees in science, particularly Environmental Science, Environmental Geoscience, and Environmental Engineering, are most compatible with this MSc degree.
• A minimum average of B- in relevant disciplines in the last two undergraduate years is required.

Geology

• Only students who have completed undergraduate degrees in Geology with A grades are usually accepted.

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 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

• Applicants must have an Honours degree in psychology or equivalent.
• Previous research activity, work experience, and clinically-related public service are considered.
• Short-listed candidates shall receive a telephone or in-person interview by two or more faculty members.

Social & Political Thought

• The program seeks to admit 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.
• Applicants are required to have completed 6h coursework in each of social theory and research methods.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees for graduate programs at Acadia University vary depending on the program and the student's residency status.

• MA Program (except MA SOPT) and MSC GEOM (1-year programs):
  • Nova Scotian students: $10,195.92
  • Canadian students: $10,604.58
  • International students: $24,233.10
• MSc/MSc CS (Thesis or Project)/M CODE/MA SOPT/MAK (per year, 2-year programs):
  • Nova Scotian students: $7,145.10
  • Canadian students: $7,431.60
  • International students: $16,881.98
• MEd/MAK.COACH (part-time)/MSc CS* (Course option), per course:
  • Nova Scotian students: $1,300.50/3 hr credit
  • Canadian students: $1,352.64/3 hr credit
  • International students: $3,129.66/3 hr credit

Research Areas

The research areas for each graduate program at Acadia University are diverse and varied. Some examples include:

• Sociology: Aging, Critical development studies, Disability, Education, Everyday Life, Food and Health Inequity, Gender and sexuality, Health and healthcare, Justice and law, Knowledge and power, Racialization and ethnicity, Social justice, Social and economic organizations, Social change and revolution, Social movements, Social Welfare and Social Policy, Social theory, Sociology of families, Work.

Conclusion

Acadia University's graduate programs offer students a unique opportunity to engage in advanced research and study in a supportive and collaborative environment. With a range of programs to choose from, students can pursue their academic and professional goals in a field that aligns with their interests and passions.

Sociology Master's Program at Acadia University: A Comprehensive Breakdown

Degree Overview:

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Objectives:

• To prepare students for further academic study and employment in the field of sociology.
• To provide students with a high degree of direct contact and engagement with their supervisor, who will guide them in their research and studies.
• To emphasize collaboration between students and faculty in planning research projects, developing research, communication, and critical analysis skills, and creating a close-knit community within the program.
• To offer opportunities for students to gain teaching experience through discussion groups and guided classroom experiences, and in some cases through teaching assistantships.

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Program Description:

The Master of Arts in Sociology at Acadia University is a small program designed to foster in-depth exploration of sociological theories and methods of inquiry through a highly collaborative environment. Students will have the opportunity to apply these skills toward research projects that contribute to a deeper understanding of contemporary societies. The program emphasizes the planning and execution of an individual research project, culminating in the defense of a Master's thesis. Coursework focuses on providing a deeper exposure to social theory, qualitative and quantitative research methods, and a broader exploration of various topics within sociology.

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Research Interests:

The program's faculty possess diverse research interests, supporting students in exploring various areas of sociological inquiry. These areas include:

• Aging
• Critical development studies
• Disability
• Education
• Everyday Life
• Food and Health Inequity
• Gender and sexuality
• Health and healthcare
• Justice and law
• Knowledge and power
• Racialization and ethnicity
• Social justice
• Social and economic organizations
• Social change and revolution
• Social movements
• Social Welfare and Social Policy
• Social theory
• Sociology of families
• Work
## Outline:

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Program Duration:

The Master's program in Sociology takes two years to complete.

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Coursework:

• Year One - First Term:
• SOCI 5960 Thesis
• SOCI 5113 Sociological theory
• SOCI 5003 Graduate seminar
• SOCI 5xx3 Elective
• Year One - Second Term:
• SOCI 5960 Thesis
• SOCI 5123 Sociological methodology
• SOCI 5xx3 Elective
• Year One - Third Term:
• SOCI 5960 Thesis completion
• Studies can be qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods or theory-focused.

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Course Schedule:

Courses take place in-person at Acadia University.

Assessment:

Assessment methods in the Sociology Master's program vary depending on the specific courses taken. However, some common assessment methods include:

• Thesis defense: Students are required to defend their Master's thesis before a committee of faculty members.
• Essays and research papers: Students are expected to produce high-quality written work demonstrating their understanding of sociological concepts and theories.
• Presentations: Students may be required to present their research findings orally in class or at conferences.
• Exams: Some courses may include written or oral exams to assess students' knowledge of course material.
## Teaching: The Sociology Master's program at Acadia University utilizes various teaching methods to foster student learning and engagement. These methods include:
• Lectures: Faculty members deliver lectures to introduce students to key concepts and theories in sociology.
• Seminars: Small-group seminars provide a platform for in-depth discussion and analysis of sociological issues.
• Guest lectures: The program may invite guest speakers from outside the university to share their expertise and perspectives with students.
• Independent research: Students are expected to conduct independent research as part of their thesis projects and course assignments.

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Faculty:

The program boasts a diverse faculty with expertise in various areas of sociology, ensuring students are exposed to multiple perspectives and research methodologies.

Careers:

Graduates of the Master's program in Sociology have pursued careers in various sectors, including:

• Academia: Graduates may choose to pursue further academic studies or careers in teaching or research.
• Government: Graduates can find employment in government agencies involved in social policy development, program evaluation, or research.
• Non-profit organizations: Graduates can work with non-profit organizations focused on social justice, community development, or advocacy.
• Private sector: Graduates may find opportunities in the private sector in areas such as market research, human resources, or consulting.
## Other:
• Students in the program have opportunities to gain teaching experience through discussion groups and guided classroom experiences, and in some cases through teaching assistantships.
• The program emphasizes a collaborative approach to learning, fostering a close-knit community within the program.
• Students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of research interests within sociology, supported by a diverse faculty with expertise in various areas.
• The program is designed to provide graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue successful careers in a variety of sectors related to sociology.
• Students have opportunities to present their research findings at conferences and publish their work in academic journals.

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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.