Program Overview
Acadia University's 12-month Master's in Political Science program provides rigorous training in Canadian politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory. It prepares graduates for further academic study or careers in the public and private sectors, including journalism, advocacy, and international development. The program stands out for its small size, individualized attention, and location in a welcoming community.
Program Outline
Masters in Political Science at Acadia University
Degree Overview:
Program Summary:
- This 12-month program aims to equip students to unite "great ideas with urgent practice".
- It focuses on rigorous training in the discipline and prepares graduates for further academic study at the PhD level, as well as work in both the private and public sectors.
- The program stands out for its small size, allowing for individualized attention, and its location in a welcoming community with a vibrant cultural and natural setting.
Program Objectives:
- To provide students with comprehensive instruction in Canadian politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory.
- To cultivate student expertise through rigorous training in the political science discipline.
- To prepare graduates for continued academic pursuits at the PhD level.
- To equip graduates for careers in the public and private sectors including journalism, advocacy, international development and organization, education, and law.
Outline:
The program consists of three terms.
Years 1, Term 1:
- POLS 5143 Masters Colloquium
- POLS SUBFIELD 1 Research Seminar (from Canadian, Theory, Comparative or Global)
- POLS 5xx3 Elective
- POLS 5960 Thesis (in-progress)
Year 1, Term 2:
- POLS 5143 Masters Colloquium
- POLS SUBFIELD 2 Research Seminar
- POLS SUBFIELD 3 Elective (from three remaining subfield areas)
- POLS 5960 Thesis (in-progress)
Year 1, Term 3:
- POLS 5960 Thesis Completion
Assessment:
- The program utilizes various methods of assessment. These may include:
- Essays
- Research projects
- Examinations
- Presentations
- Seminar participation
Teaching:
- Benefit from small class sizes and individual attention.
- Learn from faculty with diverse research interests.
- Access the Wolfville campus library, IT services, and student resources.
Careers:
- Graduates are prepared for various career paths in both the public and private sectors. These may include:
- Government positions
- Non-governmental organizations
- Advocacy and policy work
- Education and research
- Journalism and communication
- International development
Other:
- The program welcomes applications from students from diverse backgrounds and encourages interdisciplinary study.
- Students have opportunities to participate in research, conferences, and other academic activities. Disclaimer It is recommended to double-check the program website and official sources for the most up-to-date information.
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.
Services Offered:
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.
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.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.
Other:
Acadia University is located in Mi'kma'ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaw nation.
Entry Requirements:
Canadian Students:
- Recent high school graduates:
- Minimum overall average of 80% in the last two years of high school.
- Minimum of 70% in English 12.
- Completion of pre-requisite courses in Mathematics, History, and Social Studies.
- Mature students:
- Minimum of two years of relevant work experience.
- Completion of pre-requisite courses in Mathematics, History, and Social Studies.
- Transfer students:
- Minimum overall average of 70% in transferable courses.
- Completion of pre-requisite courses in Mathematics, History, and Social Studies.
- Home-schooled students:
- Minimum overall average of 80% in high school equivalency exams.
- Completion of pre-requisite courses in Mathematics, History, and Social Studies.
- Re-admission students:
- Minimum overall average of 70% in previous university courses.
- Completion of any outstanding pre-requisite courses.
International Students:
- Recent high school graduates:
- Minimum overall average of 80% in the last two years of high school.
- Minimum of 70% in English 12 or equivalent English language proficiency test score.
- Completion of pre-requisite courses in Mathematics, History, and Social Studies.
- Mature students:
- Minimum of two years of relevant work experience.
- Minimum of 70% in a recognized post-secondary qualification.
- Completion of pre-requisite courses in Mathematics, History, and Social Studies.
- Transfer students:
- Minimum overall average of 70% in transferable courses.
- Completion of pre-requisite courses in Mathematics, History, and Social Studies.
- Home-schooled students:
- Minimum overall average of 80% in high school equivalency exams.
- Minimum of 70% in English 12 or equivalent English language proficiency test score.
- Completion of pre-requisite courses in Mathematics, History, and Social Studies.
- Re-admission students:
- Minimum overall average of 70% in previous university courses.
- Completion of any outstanding pre-requisite courses.
Pre-requisite courses:
- Mathematics:
- Pre-calculus or equivalent.
- History:
- Canadian History or equivalent.
- Social Studies:
- Introduction to Political Science or equivalent.
Additional notes:
- Applicants with lower grades may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
- Applicants with relevant work experience may be exempt from some pre-requisite courses.
- International students may be required to take an English language proficiency test, such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- Applicants are encouraged to contact the program coordinator for more information about specific entry requirements.
