Master of Arts in Social & Political Thought

Program Overview

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The Social and Political Thought Master's program at Acadia University offers an interdisciplinary exploration of social and political life, fostering critical thinking, interdisciplinary scholarship, and research. Through a combination of core and elective courses, students engage with renowned faculty in seminars, discussions, and thesis research, preparing them for careers in academia, government, media, and social services. The program emphasizes interdisciplinarity, collaboration, and a supportive learning environment.

Program Outline

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.