What is your application process?
I am from the country of:
I want to study:
Our apologies...
The program that you have selected is not available for residents of your country at this time.
For the 2024/25 years, we are not currently accepting applications for the following stream:
Master of Applied Kinesiology (Coaching Professional Stream)
Applications for this program are currently closed. The Department is not accepting any further applications.
The program is full. No further applications are being accepted for the 2024-2025 year.
Applications for this program are currently closed. The School is not accepting any further applications.
We are accepting applications for a Fall 2024 start date in the MEd (General Curriculum) program for both part-time and full-time students.
We are not currently accepting applications for the following programs:
- Inclusive Education (Equity and Social Justice)
- Curriculum Studies (Outdoor Education)
- Curriculum Studies (Health Interprofessionals)
- Curriculum Studies (Music Education)
- Counselling
Before You Apply
Contact a potential Supervisor
You must have the consent of a potential Acadia supervisor before you begin your application to your program. Please consult the department’s website for a list of faculty members and their areas of expertise, then contact them individually by email to express your interest in the graduate degree and determine with them if there is a suitable project to work on. For some departments, this may also require the supervisor to confirm that they have funding to support you and your research.
Only after you have determined that there is an agreed supervisor, project, and possibly funding, should you begin your application.
If you receive no response to your email(s), you can assume that they are not willing to supervise you.
Masters of Education
The graduate application process is competitive. At the time you apply to the MEd program, you must have accumulated the equivalent of two years of full-time, paid, relevant experience that follows the completion of your four-year undergraduate degree. If you are applying for Curriculum Studies stream, your work experience would follow the completion of your BEd instead.
- The two full-time equivalent (FTE) years may be accumulated over a period longer than two years.
- Relevant volunteer work in addition to the two FTE years will be considered an asset. Please note that study cannot be counted as related experience.
- For the MEd in Inclusive Education (Equity and Social Justice) and Curriculum Studies, two years of successful teaching or related experience is required.
If your application does not meet the two-year full time employment requirement, or the BEd requirement (for the Curriculum Studies program), you are encouraged to reapply at a later date. Unfortunately, we can not supplement your application with additional information added later. It is your responsibility to carefully check your application to ensure that it is complete and contains all required information.
Independent Studies
However, you can choose take up to four (4) courses as an independent student (IND) before applying to the MEd program or while waiting for a decision on your application. For further information, please visit the Master of Education website.
Masters of Education (Counselling)
Our program's application process is competitive. Successful applicants often meet the minimum requirements, but distinguish themselves through other aspects of the application documentation and/or process.
We strongly encourage you to read the admission requirements carefully to ensure that your application is complete, and visit the program website to ensure that you understand the structure of the program. Because the program includes mandatory practicums, there are several important considerations that you should be aware of such as background checks, an intern work permit (if you are an international student), and the possible need for transportation (since many placements may not be close to Wolfville).
Timeline
- Applications are assessed during January and February
- Short-listed applicants are normally interviewed in March and April
- Generally, you can expect to receive a decision through the Status Portal by the end of April
Given the demand for the program, we cannot respond to queries about unsuccessful applications.
Independent Studies
You can choose take up to four (4) courses as an independent student (IND) before applying to the MEd program or while waiting for a decision on your application. For further information, please visit the Master of Education website.
Masters of Science in Geomatics
This program is open only to permanent residents of Canada. Applicants can only apply to this program:
- AFTER having completed the Diploma program at the College of Geographic Sciences (CoGS) in GIS, Remote Sensing or Marine Geomatics and an advanced diploma at the Applied Geomatics Research Group (NSCC Middleton Campus);
2. When a supervisor at the NSCC Middleton campus has been confirmed;
3. When a project has been confirmed; and
4. When funding is in place
Psychology
The Department of Psychology has created a document on their selection process to assist you as you apply to their program. We encourage you to familiarize yourself with this information before beginning your application.
How to Apply
You can apply online by completing our application form. The application is a 10-step form that does not have to be completed in one sitting; simply make sure that you save any completed sections before exiting.
There is a non-refundable $50.00 (CDN) processing fee required after you submit your application form and before the application deadline of your program (if applicable). Payment can be made by credit card directly through the Applicant Status Portal. Visa debit/Mastercard debit cards are not accepted. If you do not have a credit card, the Applicant Status Portal will list other payment options. We are unable to waive or refund your processing fee.
After completing the form
After you submit the online application form, you will receive an email with a link to the Applicant Status Portal where you will upload all your supporting documents (except for your official transcripts). You are required to provide the supporting documents listed in the “What You’ll Need to Apply” section at the bottom of this page. Incomplete applications are not reviewed. We will not assess your file until we have received your application form, processing fee, and all supporting documents.
Documents submitted in support of an application for admission are retained by the University and are not returned to you.
Applying for part-time studies
The only graduate programs offered part-time on a regular basis are the Master of Education and the Master of Applied Kinesiology (Coaching Stream).
If interested in pursuing an MA/MSc degree part-time, please consult directly with the department/school in question.
START DATE
Curriculum Studies: Fall (September)
Application Deadline
Students who wish to be considered for scholarships from Acadia University for the upcoming academic year must submit their application no later than February 15th; however, applications to the MAK program are accepted until July 15th
You will need to apply and submit a complete application package by February 1st.
The Department of Biology does not have set admission deadlines (besides from what is noted below to be considered for internal funding). They instead have a rolling admission process.
You will need to apply and submit a complete application package by February 1st to be automatically considered for the first round of university funding. Late applications will be considered for admission, and will be considered for funding if still available.
You will need to apply and submit a complete application package by February 1st. The admissions committee begins reviewing applications on February 2 and normally notifies successful applicants by March 1.
You will need to apply and submit a complete application package by February 1st to be automatically considered for the first round of university funding. Consideration of applications begins after the February 1st deadline. Late applications will be considered for admission, and will be considered for funding if still available.
Canadian citizens and permanent residents
You will need to apply and submit a complete application package by February 1st to be automatically considered for the first round of university funding.
You may continue to apply for admission after the February 1st deadline but will only be considered for admission until July 1st. These applications are not eligible for university funding.
Canadian citizens and permanent residents
You will need to apply and submit a complete application package by February 1st to be automatically considered for the first round of university funding.
You may continue to apply for admission after the February 1st deadline but will only be considered for admission until July 1st. These applications will not be considered for the first round of university funding.
You will need to submit your completed application package by December 4th to be considered for admission. Official transcripts post-dated by December 4th will be accepted up until January 4th.
Applications will only be reviewed after the deadline has passed. This program has an early July start each year.
You will need to submit your completed application package by December 15th to be considered for admission and automatically considered for university funding.
You will need to submit your completed application package by May 1 to be considered for admission. Official transcripts post-dated by May 1 will be accepted up until June 1.
All applications will only be reviewed after the deadline has passed.
Applicants with a Student Visa:
Submit your completed application package (including all required documents and fees paid) by February 1st.
Permanent Residents:
You will need to apply and submit a complete application package by February 1st to be automatically considered for the first round of university funding.
You may continue to apply for admission after the February 1st deadline but will only be considered for admission until July 1st. These applications are not eligible for university funding.
Applicants with a Student Visa:
Submit your completed application package (including all required documents and fees paid) by February 1st.
Permanent Residents:
You will need to apply and submit a complete application package by February 1st to be automatically considered for the first round of university funding.
You may continue to apply for admission after the February 1st deadline but will only be considered for admission until July 1st. These applications will not be considered for the first round of university funding.
All applicants to this program, regardless of citizenship, have a February 1 deadline. The admissions committee begins reviewing applications on February 2 and normally notifies successful applicants by March 1.
All applicants to this program, regardless of citizenship, have a February 1 deadline. Consideration of applications begins after the deadline.
This program is only available to Canadian and US residents.
You will need to submit your completed application package by December 15th to be considered for admission and automatically considered for university funding.
You will need to submit your completed application package by December 4th to be considered for admission. Official transcripts post-dated by December 4th will be accepted up until January 4th.
Applications will only be reviewed after the deadline has passed. This program has an early July start each year.
You will need to submit your completed application package by May 1 to be considered for admission. Official transcripts post-dated by May 1 will be accepted up until June 1.
All applications will only be reviewed after the deadline has passed.
You will need to submit your completed application package by March 15 to be considered for admission. Official transcripts post-dated by March 15 will be accepted up until June 1.
All applications will only be reviewed after the deadline has passed.
You will need to submit your completed application package by February 27 to be considered for admission. Official transcripts post-dated by February 27 will be accepted up until June 1.
All applications will only be reviewed after the deadline has passed.
NOTE: Our application deadlines refer to the submission of a complete application package: your application form and any supporting documents that may be required, such as transcripts, resumes, etc. If documents are not received by the deadline or post-marked, it will be at the discretion of the department/school whether a file will be considered.
Funding Options
All applicants are encouraged to seek out external funding opportunities.
If you apply and submit a complete admission application package by February 1, with a GPA of at least 3.0 in each of your last 2 years of undergraduate study, you will be automatically considered for an Acadia Graduate Scholarship (AGS) and an Acadia Graduate Teaching Assistantship (AGTA).
If you apply and submit a complete admission application package by February 15, with a GPA of at least 3.0 in each of your last 2 years of undergraduate study, you will be automatically considered for an Acadia Graduate Scholarship (AGS) and an Acadia Graduate Teaching Assistantship (AGTA).
If you apply and submit a complete admission application package by December 15, with a GPA of at least 3.0 in each of your last 2 years of undergraduate study, you will be automatically considered for an Acadia Graduate Scholarship (AGS) and an Acadia Graduate Teaching Assistantship (AGTA).
MED
Applicants to an M.Ed. program should refer to the FAQ document on the School of Education website.
Admission Requirements
Admission to our graduate programs is competitive, and possessing the minimum requirements does not guarantee your admission. Some departments and schools have additional requirements. Please read the requirements on this page, or consult the University Academic Calendar.
To be admitted to our graduate programs, you must possess an honours degree, or a four-year bachelor's degree, from an approved university. If you have a major in a field other than that of your graduate program, you will normally be required to take sufficient undergraduate courses to make up the equivalent of an Acadia undergraduate major. Special consideration may be given if you wish to change from one undergraduate field to a related graduate one.
Guidelines for Students from Canada
You must have at least a B- average (70%) in the courses taken in your major field in the last two undergraduate years (or 60 credit hours) of university study, including coursework in undergraduate degree(s) and any graduate work you have completed.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Graduate Studies Officer by emailing gradadmissions@acadiau.ca.
GPA Admission Requirements for Specific International Countries
Acadia’s minimum admission requirement is 2.67/4.0 GPA OR a 70% in the courses taken in the major field in the last two undergraduate years. To be eligible for an Acadia Graduate Scholarship/Acadia Graduate Teaching Assistantship [Internal Scholarship], you must possess a GPA of 3.0/4.0 in each of the last two years of study. If you are applying for an external scholarship, in most cases a 1 st Class Average is required. Acadia defined 1 st Class as 3.67/4.0 GPA. Please note that some departments/schools may have additional admission requirements.
Guidelines for Students from Afghanistan
80% (B) for admission; 85% (B) for internal scholarship; 86% (A) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Australia
2nd Class, Lower Division (B- or 70%) for admission; 2nd Class Upper Division (A or 73%) for internal scholarship; 1 st Class (A+ or 83%) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Bangladesh
2nd Class, Lower Division (B-, 50%, or 2.7/4.0) for admission; 2nd Class, Upper Division (B+, 55%, or 3.3/4.0) for internal scholarship; 1st Class (A-, 60%, or 3.7/4.0) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Benin
11/20 (B-) for admission; 12/20 (B) for internal scholarship; 14/20 (A-) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Brazil
7/10 (70%) for admission; 8/10 (80%) for internal scholarship; 9/10 (90%) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Cameroon
2nd Class, Upper Division (B or 3.0/4) for admission and internal.
scholarship; 1st Class (A or 4.0/4) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Chile
4.5/7.0 (B-) for admission; 5/7.0 (B) for internal scholarship; 6/7.0 (A-) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from China
80% (B) for admission; 82% (B) for internal scholarship; 89% (A) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Columbia
3.5/5.0 for admission; 3.7/5 .0 for internal scholarship; 4.0/5.0 for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Croatia
3.0/5.0 (B, or Dobar [Good]) for admission and internal scholarship; 3.5/5.0 (A, or Vrlo Dobar [Very Good]) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Cuba
4.0/5.0 (B or 3.0/4) for admission and internal scholarship; 4.5/5.0 for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Cyprus
North (Turkish-Cypriot)
16/20 (B or 80%) for admission; 17/20 (B or 85%) for internal; scholarship; 19/20 (A or 95%) for external scholarship.
South (Greek-Cypriot)
7/10 (B) for admission; 8/10 for internal scholarship; 9/10 (A) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Egypt
68% for admission; 70% for internal scholarship; 80% for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Eritrea
65% (B) for admission; 74% for internal scholarship; 75% (A) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Ethopia
80% (B or 3.0/4) for admission; 84% for internal scholarship; 89% for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from France
12/20 (B or 3.0/4) for admission; 13/20 (B+ or 3.3/4) for internal scholarship; 14/20 (A or 3.7/4) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Germany
2.6/5 (B or 3.0/4) for admission; 3.0/5 (3.0/4) for internal scholarship; 1.6/5 (A- or 3.7/4) external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Ghana
2nd Class Honours, Lower Division (B-, or 50%, or 2.7/4) for admission; 55% for internal scholarship; 1 st Class Honours (A, or 70%, or 4.0/4) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from India
2nd Division (B or 50%) for admission; 55% for internal scholarship; 1st Division, (A or 60%) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Iran
14/20 (B or 3.0/4.0) for admission; 15/20 for internal scholarship; 16/20 (A or 4.0/4) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Iraq
2.7/4.0 (B- or 60%) for admission; 3.0/4.0 (B or 70%) for internal scholarship; 3.7/4.0 (A- or 80%) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Israel
3.0/4.0 (B or 75%) for admission; 80% for internal scholarship; 4.0/4.0 (A or 85%) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Japan
70% (B or 3.0/4.0) for admission; 74% for internal scholarship; 80% (A or 4.0/4.0) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Jordan
80% (B or 3.0/4.0) for admission; 84% for internal scholarship; 90% (A- or 4.0/4.0) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Lebanon
12/20 (B or 3.0/4.0) for admission and internal scholarship; 16/20 (A- or 3.7/4.0) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Malaysia
2nd Class Honours, Lower Division (B- or 50%) for admission; 2nd Class Honours, Upper Division (B or 60%) for internal scholarship; 1 st Class Honours (A or 70%) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from New Zealand
B- (60% or Bare 2nd) for admission; B (65% or Clear 2nd) for internal scholarship; A (80% or Clear 1st) for external scholarships.f
Guidelines for Students from Nigeria
2nd Class Honours, Lower Division (50%) for admission; 2nd Class Honours, Upper Division (60%) for internal scholarship; 1st Class Honours (70%) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Pakistan
50% for admission; 55% for internal scholarship; 60% for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Philippines
Senior High School diploma with minimum 85% or 2.24/5.00
Guidelines for Students from Russian Federation
B (4.0/5.0, or Khorosho [Good], or 3.0/4.0) for admission and internal scholarship; A (5.0/5.0, or Otlichno [Excellent], or 4.0/4.0) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Saudi Arabia
80% (B, or 3.0/5.0, or 3.0/4.0) for admission; 84% for internal scholarship; 90% (A, or 4.0/5.0, or 4.0/4.0) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from South Africa
2nd Class, Division 2 (B-, or 60%, or 2.7/4.0) for admission; 65% for internal scholarship; 1st Class (A, or 75%, or 4.0/4.0) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Taiwan
70% (B) for admission; 75% for internal scholarship; 80% (A) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Tanzania
2nd Class Honours, Lower Division (B- or 2.7/4.0) for admission and internal scholarship; 1st Class Honours (A or 4.0/4.0) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Thailand
80% (B or 3.0/4.0) for admission; 85% for internal scholarship; A, or 4.0/4.0 for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Turkey
65% (B, or 7.0/10, or Iyi [Good], or 3.0/4.0) for admission; 75% for internal scholarship; 85% (A, or 9.0/10, or Pek Iyi [Very Good], or 4.0/4.0) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Uganda
2nd Class Honours, Lower Division (B) for admission and internal scholarship; 1st Class Honours (A) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Ukraine
70% (B, or 4.0/5.0, or 3.0/4.0) for admission; 80% for internal scholarship; 90% (A, or 5.0/5.0, or 4.0/4.0) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from United Arab Emirates
80% (B or 3.0/4.0) for admission; 85% for internal scholarship; 90% (A (UAE) or 4.0/4.0) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from United Kingdom
2nd Class Honours, Lower (B-, or 53%, or 2.7/4.0) for admission; 56% for internal scholarship; 1 st Class (A, or 70%, or 4.0/4.0) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Venezuela
13/20 (B or 3.0/4) for admission; 14.0/20 for internal scholarship; 17/20 (A- or 3.7/4) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Viet Nam
6/10 (B) for admission; 7/10 for internal scholarship; 8.5/10 (A) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Zambia
8/11 (B, or 56%, or Very Satisfactory) for admission; 65% for internal scholarship; 10/11 (A, or 76%, or Distinction) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Zimbabwe
2nd Class, Lower Division (B, or 65%, or 2.7/4) for admission; 2 nd Class, Upper Division (B+, 70%, or 3.3/4) for internal scholarship; 1 st Class (A, or 80%, or 4.0/4) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Bahamas
2.75/4.0 (B- or 70%) for admission; 3.0/4.0 (B or 75%) for internal scholarship; 3.75/4.0 (A- or 85%) for external scholarship.
Guidelines for Students from Jamaica
2nd Class Honours, Lower Division (B- or 2.7/4.0) for admission and internal scholarship; 1 st Class Honours (A or 4.0/4.0) for external scholarships.
Guidelines for Students from Libya
65% (B or 3.0/4.0) for admission; 70% for internal scholarship; 75% (A- or 3.7/4.0) for external scholarships.
Program Requirements
Geomatics
Candidates for admission to this program 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. Candidates should have at least a B- average in relevant disciplines in the last two undergraduate years. Before applying for this MSc degree program students will have been enrolled in the NSCC Geomatics diploma program; acceptance is also subject to availability of positions, faculty advisors and adequate funding. Acceptance of a qualified candidate will also be contingent on letters of support from appropriate referees.
Visit the website of this program to learn more and view available options for perspective thesis supervisors.
Visit WebsiteProgram Requirements
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. You must have at least a B- average (70%) in the courses taken in the major field in the last two undergraduate years.
Visit the website of this program to learn more and view available options for perspective thesis supervisors.
Visit WebsiteProgram Requirements
Biology
We place emphasis on research rather than course work. Individual programs of study are determined by your supervisor and committee. The advisory committee consists of your supervisor and at least two other faculty members or research associates.
You are advised to contact your prospective supervisor directly at the time of application. We make decisions on accepting applicants primarily on the recommendation of these prospective supervisors.
Visit the website of this program to learn more and view available options for perspective thesis supervisors.
Visit WebsiteProgram Requirements
Computer Science
To apply, you need to possess a 4-year honours undergraduate degree in computer science. Please check the Grad Guide to find out if you have the required undergraduate requirements.
In general, students required to make-up more than three undergraduate computer science courses will not be admitted. Individuals requiring more make up courses may be considered based on their special research interests and preparation.
Visit the website of this program to learn more, read their Grad Guide, and view available options for perspective thesis supervisors.
Visit WebsiteProgram Requirements
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. The program is thesis-based and you will also complete a number of courses while working in close cooperation with faculty on your research project. We are seeking applicants who have a particular interest in one of the following areas:
- Tourism and Sustainable Community Development
- Environmental Education
- Active Transportation and Community Health
- Sustainable Food and Community Development
- Renewable Energy and Community Engagement
- Adventure Education
- Community-Based Resource and Environmental Management
Visit the website of this program to learn more and view available options for perspective thesis supervisors.
Visit WebsiteProgram Requirements
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).
- Applicants to all MEd programs must have at least a B average (73-76%) in the final two years of full-time equivalent (60 credit hours) university study, including coursework in undergraduate degree(s) and any graduate work completed.
- Two years of paid, full-time equivalent, post-degree teaching or related experience is required.
- Two current arm’s length references from persons conversant with the applicant’s academic and professional abilities are required. One is to be an academic reference from a recent instructor/teacher/professor. The other is to be a professional reference from an individual familiar with the applicant’s professional performance. If the applicant has not taken a course in the last five years, two professional references may be submitted. This is the only circumstance in which two professional references are acceptable.
MEd (Curriculum Studies) Additional Admission Requirement
- Applicants to the Curriculum Studies (General) program must possess a Bachelor of Education degree or its equivalent (e.g., NS Teachers College plus an undergraduate degree).
- All Curriculum Studies applicants must submit a letter of intent describing the nature and focus of study they wish to pursue. This letter should include a discussion of relevant academic study and professional experience related to the applicant’s program interests.
Visit the website of this program to learn more.
Visit WebsiteProgram Requirements
Masters of Education - Counselling
- Applicants to the MEd Counselling must have the equivalent of two years of full-time, paid, relevant experience following completion of their four-year undergraduate degree. The two full-time equivalent (FTE) years may be accumulated over a period longer than two years. Your application will not be considered if you do not have this experience.
Relevant work experience for those applying to the Counselling Program should involve strong interpersonal and communication skills. Some examples of relevant work experience might include social work, peer helping, pastoral care, working with members of a vulnerable population, teaching, special needs care, group home, hospice work, at-risk youth outreach, community outreach, distress line work, big brothers/sisters, and lay counselling programs. - Relevant volunteer work in addition to the two FTE years will be considered an asset. Please note that study cannot be counted as related experience.
- Applicants must provide a letter of intent outlining their motivations and aspirations in reference to the counselling program.
- Applicants must participate in an interview as part of the application review process.
Visit the website of this program to learn more.
Visit WebsiteProgram Requirements
English
Applicants for admission should hold a BA Honours degree in English or equivalent.
Visit the website of this program to learn more.
Visit WebsiteProgram Requirements
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. Applicants with undergraduate degrees not meeting these qualifications would be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and can be approved by consensus among the supervisor, graduate coordinator, and department head. Undergraduate degrees in science, in particular Environmental Science, Environmental Geoscience, Environmental Engineering, are most compatible with this MSc degree. Candidates should have at least a B- average in relevant disciplines in the last two undergraduate years. Acceptance of a qualified candidate will also be contingent on letters of support from appropriate referees.
Initial inquiries should be addressed to the Graduate Coordinator, Department of Earth and Environmental Science at Acadia University or to a potential supervisor. Contact with and agreement from a potential supervisor are required prior to submission of your application.
Visit the website of this program to learn more and view available options for perspective thesis supervisors.
Visit WebsiteProgram Requirements
Geology
We usually accept only students who have completed undergraduate degrees in Geology with A grades.
Visit the website of this program to learn more and view available options for perspective thesis supervisors.
Visit WebsiteProgram Requirements
Applied Kinesiology
This program does not have specific admission requirements.
Visit the website of this program to learn more:
Visit WebsiteProgram 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.
Visit the website of this program to learn more.
Visit WebsiteProgram Requirements
Political Science
The current effective threshold for admission is a Bachelor of Arts with Honours Degree in Political Science, with a minimum GPA of 3.5 in the last two years. We occasionally admit candidates with a major in Political Science or degrees in other disciplines or with lower GPAs, however, we may require coursework in Political Science prior to admission to the MA depending upon the actual qualifications of individual candidates (and their equivalence to Political Science). Your application must include: two (2) letters of reference, curriculum vitae, undergraduate university transcript, a sample of your recent written academic work, general statement of your proposed thesis research that includes information on your proposed research topic, and the application fee as required by Acadia University.
Visit the website of this program to learn more.
Visit WebsiteProgram Requirements
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). If you are interested in counselling, but do not hold those qualifications, you may be interested in either our Master of Education in Counselling, or in completing an undergraduate degree in Psychology. More information is available at the Graduate Psychology website.
Over the past five years, we have averaged 40 applications for 4 to 5 spaces per year. Of admitted students, the average GPA was 3.60 and generally GRE percentile scores (General Test) were above the 40th percentile. 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 in order to augment the selection process. Admission is restricted to those holding a bachelor’s degree with Honours in Psychology (with a thesis) or equivalent (please see chart and description below).
*Biological bases of behaviour (neuropsychology, biological psychology, physiological psychology) Cognitive bases of behaviour (learning, memory, cognition), Social bases of behaviour (social psychology, cultural, ethnic and group processes), Individual differences (abnormal psychology, developmental psychopathology)
**The research statement must outline how you are prepared to complete a Masters thesis. Please describe your research experience and completed coursework that is related to research such as research design and statistics. The statement must also include general areas of research interest and potential Acadia supervisors in those areas. The document has a 1-3 page limit. The statement of applied interests must describe your academic and clinical interests and how you intend to pursue them in the clinical psychology graduate program at Acadia University. Please state what you are interested in studying and why Acadia University is a good place for you. Please also include your career objectives, preparation, suitability for the program, and any other relevant information. If you've applied for a scholarship opportunity (ie. SSHRC/NSERC/CIHR), please include this info in your statement. Applicants are invited to describe any special circumstances that may affect their application and academic record such as the need for paid employment during undergraduate years, parental and medical leave(s), and possible socio-cultural disadvantages. If included, this information should be added with a subheading “Special Circumstances”. This last component is completely voluntary and not required; however, the Department of Psychology is committed to Equity/ Diversity/ Inclusiveness principles and actions and is willing to consider applicants’ special circumstances as part of the admission selection process. The document has a 1-3 page limit.
***The onus is on the applicant without a four-year Honours degree in Psychology (thesis based) to demonstrate how all requirements have been met. At least one referee must comment on how you are prepared to complete a Masters thesis.
Visit the website of this program to learn more and view available options for perspective thesis supervisors.
Visit WebsiteProgram Requirements
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. We encourage applications from interested students graduating from relevant disciplinary (e.g. Philosophy, Political Science, Sociology, English) and interdisciplinary (e.g. Communication and Cultural Studies, Environmental Studies, Women and Gender Studies) programs, as well as from those with relevant work or life experience beyond their undergraduate degree. All applications will be considered on an individual basis.
Your application must include: at least two letters of reference, curriculum vitae, undergraduate university transcript, sample of your recent written work, statement of research interest, and the application fee as required by Acadia University.
Visit the website of this program to learn more.
Visit WebsiteProgram Requirements
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. The application must include: a statement of research interests, a sample of written work (e.g. chapter from an Honours thesis or excerpt from a major research paper), a curriculum vitae, all undergraduate transcripts, and two letters of reference. The deadline is February 1 for applicants who wish to be considered for university funding. Other applications may be considered after this date, if space permits. Students will identify a supervisor, in consultation with the department, once they start the program.
Students without an Honours degree but who have completed a four-year undergraduate degree in sociology may be considered if they demonstrate equivalent academic and/or work experience. These students must submit a full-length major research paper for their writing sample.
Visit the website of this program to learn more.
Visit WebsiteEnglish Proficiency Requirement
Since English is the language of instruction at Acadia University, you must be able to communicate competently in English both orally and in writing, and students whose first language is not English may be required to present the result of the TOEFL, IELTS, CAEL or PTE.
Acadia's minimum graduate studies English requirements are as follows:
- IELTS (Academic only) - 6.5 overall with no subtest score below 6.0
- TOEFL - 93 IBT with no subtest score below 20
- TOEFL - 93 IBT Home Edition with no subtest score below 20
- CAEL - 70 overall with no subtest score below 60
- PTE Academic or Online - 61 with no subtest score below 60
Please note that some programs require higher scores. Please consult with the Graduate Advisor for your specific degree.
We do not accept the Duolingo English Test (DET).
After submitting your application, you can upload your unofficial score through the Applicant Status Portal and we will use that for our assessment/review.
If you are accepted to Acadia, we will require your official English test score:
Official IELTS submission
We only accept IELTS results delivered to our IELTS Results Service account by the IELTS test centre. No paper Test Report Forms will be accepted. An institution code for IELTS is NOT required. All IELTS test centres worldwide can send scores electronically to our institution. Please contact the test centre directly where you took the IELTS test and request that your test scores be sent to the following account using the IELTS system:
Account Name: Acadia University-Graduate Studies
Email Address: gradadmissions@acadiau.ca
Official TOEFL submission
We only accept TOEFL results delivered to our ETS Data Manager account by ETS. No paper Test Report Forms will be accepted. An institution code for TOEFL is required. Acadia’s institutional code is 0901.
Conditional Admission
There are a few programs that will offer conditional admission if you are academically admissible and there is a supervisor available, but you don't meet the minimum IELTS/TOEFL score requirement (MSc in MATH, MSc in COMP, MSc in GEOL, or MSc in CHEM).
For all other programs, the English language requirement MUST be met at the time of application.
English Proficiency Requirement
You do not need to provide English language test scores to enter this program.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO APPLY
As part of your application, you will need to send the following supporting documents electronically through the Status Portal. If your program has an application deadline, you must send all documents by the application deadline.
Only transcripts and English language test scores (if applicable) must be sent by mail. We do not accept any other documents by mail.
Transcripts
You will need to provide one original, official transcript from each post-secondary institution you have attended at the time that you apply.
This includes universities/colleges where:
- you took only one (1) or more courses (but a degree/certificate was not conferred);
- you participated in an exchange program;
- you graduated from a program(s); or
- you are currently enrolled (degree/certificate currently in progress).
You are strongly encouraged to start the process of requesting and sending the official transcripts early.
Requirements:
We do not accept unofficial transcripts.
“Official” is defined as being issued directly from the original institution. Transcripts can be provided to the applicant in a sealed university official envelope to be mailed to Acadia's Graduate Studies Office OR the transcripts can be mailed directly from the institution to Acadia's Graduate Studies Office.
- If you previously attended Acadia, we do not require an official transcript to be sent — we will obtain that transcript from our system.
- If it is not possible for the institution to produce another official transcript, they may make a copy of the original transcript and certify that the document is an accurate copy. The certified copy should then be provided to you in a sealed envelope or sent directly to Acadia from the issuing institution.
- The transcript must be submitted to Acadia in English. If your transcript is not in English, it's your responsibility to have it translated. If your institution does not provide translated documents, your transcript can be translated elsewhere and then brought back to your institution to be certified as an accurate copy. The certified translated copy should then be provided to you in a sealed envelope or sent directly to Acadia from the issuing institution.
- In rare cases where a university will not provide a certified copy of a transcript, the Ministry of Education / Office of the Judiciary in that Country can certify the authenticity of the transcript. It would need to be submitted to Acadia in their official, sealed, stamped, envelope to be accepted.
Important notes regarding transcripts:
- We do not accept unofficial transcripts for any reason. Please do not apply until you have your official transcript.
- We do not accept transcripts by email.
- We do not require transcripts for your 10th or 12th year — only the official transcripts after grade 12 and onward are required.
- We do not accept notarized documents.
- We do not accept WES Evaluation Reports/Verification of Transcripts — Acadia does their own assessment of the official application documents.
Send your transcript:
If your university has partnered with MyCreds, National Student Clearinghouse, My eQuals, or Parchment, these services can send the official transcript to
COURIER (DHL, FedEx, Purolator, etc.)
Address the package to: Acadia University, Graduate Studies, 15 University Avenue, Wolfville, NS, B4P 2R6
REGULAR MAIL/POST
Address the package to: Acadia University, Graduate Studies, Box 70, Wolfville, NS, B4P 2R6
Resume
You will need to send us a current professional resume using the Applicant Status Portal. We encourage you to highlight your academic history, work experience, and volunteering or community involvement related to your graduate program or research interests.
Letter of Intent
You will upload your LOI through the Applicant Status Portal once you submit your application form. For info on what to include in the LOI, please visit the Master of Education FAQ.
Statement of Applied Interest
You will upload your Statement of Applied Interests through the Applicant Status Portal once you submit your application form. The document has a single-spaced, 1-3 page limit. In your statement:
- Please describe your academic and clinical interests and how you intend to pursue them in the clinical psychology graduate program at Acadia University.
- Please state what you are interested in studying and why Acadia University is a good place for you.
- Please also include your career objectives, preparation, suitability for the program, and any other relevant information.
- If you've applied for a scholarship opportunity (ie. SSHRC/NSERC/CIHR), please include this info in your statement.
- Applicants are invited to describe any special circumstances that may affect their application and academic record such as the need for paid employment during undergraduate years, parental and medical leave(s), and possible socio-cultural disadvantages. If included, this information should be added with a subheading “Special Circumstances”. This last component is completely voluntary and not required; however, the Department of Psychology is committed to Equity/ Diversity/ Inclusiveness principles and actions and is willing to consider applicants’ special circumstances as part of the admission selection process.
Research Statement
You must outline how you are prepared to complete a Masters thesis. Please describe your research experience and completed coursework that is related to research such as research design and statistics. The statement must also include general areas of research interest and potential Acadia supervisors in those areas.
You will upload your Research Statement through the Applicant Status Portal once you submit your application form. The document has a single-spaced, 1-3 page limit.
Departmental Information Form
You will have access to the Departmental Information Form through the Applicant Status Portal once you submit your application form.
Statement of Research Interests
You will upload your Statement of Research Interests through the Applicant Status Portal once you submit your application form. There is no specific format or page limit for this statement.
A statement of research interest is a short document that provides a brief history of your past research experience and the future work you intend to complete. It is a common component of a potential candidate’s application for post-graduate study. The statement is the primary way that an admissions committee determines if a candidate’s interest and experience make them a good fit for their program/institution.
A Statement should:
- Articulate the broader field that you are working within, and the specific question that you are interested in answering
- Provide a brief history of your past research/interest. How did this research propel you forward?
- Describe your ongoing research. What questions are you actively trying to solve? What have you found so far? How are you connecting your research to the larger academic conversation? (do you have any publications under review, upcoming conferences, or other professional engagements?) What are the larger implications of your work?, and
- Describe the future trajectory of your research. What is the big picture? What further questions do you have and how will you solve them? How can the institution to which you are applying help you in that process? Does the institutional have the necessary academic expertise and resources to help you complete the research? Social & Political Thought applicants can find more information on their application page.
Statement of Research Interests
Applicants should also submit a detailed statement of research interests of about 500 words to indicate the type of research they intend to pursue at Acadia University. The purpose of the statement is to identify the intended focus of study, the media and/or genres involved, the authors of choice, and the approach.
Statement of Research Interests
A statement of research interest should tell the admissions committee what you are interested in pursuing in the Social and Political Thought graduate program. We want to know about your research interests: what areas of study makes you excited; what literatures really get you thinking; what are the social, political, economic, cultural, historical issues that you want to tackle…
We want to know about the path that led you to these research interests: what were the courses you took, what events were important to you; did you take a leave of absence from your studies; and what makes you tick? We do not want a formal thesis proposal – the coursework will change your ideas – send us your proposed research interests. The document is normally 1-2 pages long.
Statement of Research Interests
You will upload your Statement of Research Interests through the Applicant Status Portal once you submit your application form. There is no specific format or page limit for this statement.
A statement of research interest is a short document that provides a brief history of your past research experience and an indication of the area of mathematics and/or statistics that you wish to pursue in your future studies. It is a common component of a potential candidate’s application for post-graduate study. The statement allows an admissions committee to determine if a candidate’s interest and experience make them a good fit for their program/institution. In addition, and perhaps even more importantly, the statement enables the committee to try to match the candidate with a potential supervisor.
The research supervisor is a critical feature of the MSc program in Mathematics and Statistics. In order for a candidate to be admitted to the program, a faculty member must be willing and available to act as their supervisor.
Useful information that you should include in your Statement of Research Interest:
- In which of the three general areas (Statistics, Applied Math, Pure Math) do you wish to work?
- Within your general area, what topics might you be interested in researching (for example, within Statistics the area of Time Series might be one choice; Cryptography & Number Theory within Pure Math, or Tidal Power within Applied Math)?
- Which professors within the department might be a suitable match for your research interests?
If you feel that your future plans do not fit in well with any of the three general areas, please provide a description of what you would like to do and some context as to how you arrived at this choice.
Remember, the primary purpose for this document is to enable us to see how you might fit into our program and which, if any, of our faculty might be able to supervise your studies.
Statement of Academic and Professional Interests
A statement of interests provides a brief overview of both your academic interests and your professional interests. It should outline the area of study you wish to pursue in a graduate program and describe the academic and professional experiences that have lead you to become interested in this area. Please address the four bullet points below, but feel free to address them in any order.
- Describe your academic &/or professional interests. What is the big picture? What area of study has captivated your curiosity?
- Provide a brief history of your past academic and professional experiences outlining those experiences that have heightened your interest in the area of study you wish to explore.
- Describe your career objectives, your suitability for the program, and any other relevant information.
If you have applied for a scholarship opportunity (e.g. SSHRC/ NSERC/ CIHR/ Research NS), please include this information in your statement.
Optional: This portion is completely voluntary and not required. The School of Kinesiology is committed to principles and actions of Equity, Diversity, Inclusiveness and is willing to consider an applicant’s special circumstances as part of the admission selection process. As such, applicants are invited to describe any special circumstances that may affect their application and academic record (e.g., the need for paid employment during undergraduate years, parental and medical leave(s), possible socio-cultural disadvantages). If included, this information should be added with a subheading “Special Circumstances”.
Upload your Statement of Academic and Professional Interests through the Applicant Status Portal once you submit your application form. The document has a 2-page limit (single spaced).
Statement of Academic Intent
A statement of intent is a short document that provides a brief overview of the future work you intend to complete, and how your academic background will help you successfully complete it. It should address the nature and focus of study you may wish to pursue in the graduate program. The point of the statement of academic intent is to make a compelling argument that you are prepared for graduate study. The statement is the primary way that an admissions committee determines if a candidate’s interest and academic experience make them a good fit for graduate study in general, and the MAK graduate program in particular.
- Describe, more specifically, the academic work you intend to pursue in the MAK. What questions do you have and how do you see yourself answering them? How can the MAK help you in that process?
- Outline how you are prepared to successfully complete graduate work. Please describe your research experience and completed coursework that is related to research such as research design and statistics.
- Please name potential Acadia supervisors in the area of study you wish to pursue and rank them in terms of your order of preference. Please provide a brief rationale for your ranking.
Upload your Statement of Academic Intent through the Applicant Status Portal once you submit your application form. The document has a 2-page limit (single spaced).
Writing Sample
Please include a writing sample using the applicant status portal.
- It must be a minimum of 10 pages.
- A research essay completed for an upper-level undergraduate course is appropriate.
- Please submit a copy free of instructor’s mark and comments.
GRE SCORES
GREs may be required. Please see program FAQs for further details.
Recommendations
You will need to provide contact information for two references. Both references should be academic sources.
1) You can include your referees' contact information on your application form, or submit your application form without them and add them in the Applicant Status Portal later. Your application is not complete until we receive your recommendations.
2) We will send an automated email to the referees with instructions on how they can send the recommendation to us. In most cases, the referee can complete an online recommendation form, upload a letter, or both (if they prefer), through our secure website. Recommendations sent by mail or email will not be accepted.
If your program has an application deadline, you should make sure that your referees send us their recommendations before the deadline.
You will need to provide contact information for two references. At least one, and preferably both, of your references should be from academic sources.
1) You can include your referees' contact information on your application form, or submit your application form without them and add them in the Applicant Status Portal later. Your application is not complete until we receive your recommendations.
2) We will send an automated email to the referees with instructions on how they can send the recommendation to us. In most cases, the referee can complete an online recommendation form, upload a letter, or both (if they prefer), through our secure website. Recommendations sent by mail or email will not be accepted.
If your program has an application deadline, you should make sure that your referees send us their recommendations before the deadline.
You will need to provide contact information for two references. Your references can be either academic or professional in nature.
1) You can include your referees' contact information on your application form, or submit your application form without them and add them in the Applicant Status Portal later. Your application is not complete until we receive your recommendations.
2) We will send an automated email to the referees with instructions on how they can send the recommendation to us. In most cases, the referee can complete an online recommendation form, upload a letter, or both (if they prefer), through our secure website. Recommendations sent by mail or email will not be accepted.
If your program has an application deadline, you should make sure that your referees send us their recommendations before the deadline.
You will need to provide contact information for two references. Your two references must be your current/previous supervisor (either from industry or academic) or a course instructor or employer.
1) You can include your referees' contact information on your application form, or submit your application form without them and add them in the Applicant Status Portal later. Your application is not complete until we receive your recommendations.
2) We will send an automated email to the referees with instructions on how they can send the recommendation to us. In most cases, the referee can complete an online recommendation form, upload a letter, or both (if they prefer), through our secure website. Recommendations sent by mail or email will not be accepted.
If your program has an application deadline, you should make sure that your referees send us their recommendations before the deadline.
You will need to provide contact information for two references. We recommend that your two references should be from academic sources.
1) You can include your referees' contact information on your application form, or submit your application form without them and add them in the Applicant Status Portal later. Your application is not complete until we receive your recommendations.
2) We will send an automated email to the referees with instructions on how they can send the recommendation to us. In most cases, the referee can complete an online recommendation form, upload a letter, or both (if they prefer), through our secure website. Recommendations sent by mail or email will not be accepted.
If your program has an application deadline, you should make sure that your referees send us their recommendations before the deadline.
You will need to provide contact information for three references. The references should be three academics or two academics and one professional source. At least one referee must comment on how you are prepared to complete a Master’s thesis.
1) You can include your referees' contact information on your application form, or submit your application form without them and add them in the Applicant Status Portal later. Your application is not complete until we receive your recommendations.
2) We will send an automated email to the referees with instructions on how they can send the recommendation to us. In most cases, the referee can complete an online recommendation form, upload a letter, or both (if they prefer), through our secure website. Recommendations sent by mail or email will not be accepted.
If your program has an application deadline, you should make sure that your referees send us their recommendations before the deadline.
You will need to provide contact information for two references. One reference must be an academic reference and the other should be a professional reference.
1) You can include your referees' contact information on your application form, or submit your application form without them and add them in the Applicant Status Portal later. Your application is not complete until we receive your recommendations.
2) We will send an automated email to the referees with instructions on how they can send the recommendation to us. In most cases, the referee can complete an online recommendation form, upload a letter, or both (if they prefer), through our secure website. Recommendations sent by mail or email will not be accepted.
If your program has an application deadline, you should make sure that your referees send us their recommendations before the deadline.
You will need to provide contact information for two references. Preferably, your two references should be from academic sources.
1) You can include your referees' contact information on your application form, or submit your application form without them and add them in the Applicant Status Portal later. Your application is not complete until we receive your recommendations.
2) We will send an automated email to the referees with instructions on how they can send the recommendation to us. In most cases, the referee can complete an online recommendation form, upload a letter, or both (if they prefer), through our secure website. Recommendations sent by mail or email will not be accepted.
If your program has an application deadline, you should make sure that your referees send us their recommendations before the deadline.
Two references are required as part of your application.
- If you have taken a course in the last five years before the start date of your MEd program, or if you are currently enrolled in a course, one academic and one professional reference is required.
- If you have not taken a course in the last five years before the start date of your MEd program, two professional references are required.
An academic reference is from a current or recent instructor, teacher, or professor.
A professional reference is from someone other than an instructor/teacher/professor who would be familiar with your work. Your professional reference:
- should not be a family member, colleague or friend
- should not be someone that you have an ongoing, non-professional relationship with: this should be a strictly professional relationship
- should hold, or did hold, a senior or administrative position, higher than your rank now or in the past
- should be someone who oversaw your role or someone that you reported to
- should be able to evaluate your performance based on your job description or position at the time you worked with them
Sending your recommendations:
1) You can include your referees' contact information on your application form, or submit your application form without them and add them in the Applicant Status Portal later. Your application is not complete until we receive your recommendations.
2) We will send an automated email to the referees with instructions on how to complete the online recommendation form through our secure website. Recommendations sent by mail or email will not be accepted.
Make sure that your referees send us their recommendations before the deadline.
Apply Now
Applying online takes about 15 minutes. You can also save your progress and come back to the application later.
Apply to AcadiaAfter You've Applied
Once you complete and submit your application package, you will receive an automated email with a link to your Applicant Status Portal. Through the Applicant Status Portal, you can:
- view the list of required documents needed to complete you admission file;
- upload you supporting documentation (except for transcripts); and
- view the official letter when a decision has been made on your application.
Please note that admission decision times vary by department. When an admission decision has been made, you will be notified through the Applicant Status Portal.
Apply Now
Applying online takes about 15 minutes. You can also save your progress and come back to the application later.
Apply to AcadiaAfter You've Applied
Once you complete and submit your application package, you will receive an automated email with a link to your Applicant Status Portal. Through the Applicant Status Portal, you can:
- view the list of required documents needed to complete you admission file;
- upload you supporting documentation (except for transcripts); and
- view the official letter when a decision has been made on your application.
Please note that admission decision times vary by department. When an admission decision has been made, you will be notified through the Applicant Status Portal.
Working on/off-campus while being a student
International students are permitted to work on/off-campus while registered as a student.
Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)
Regardless of the type of graduate program you are registered in, you are eligible for a PGWP. A post-graduation work permit may be issued based on the length of the study program for a minimum of 8 months up to a maximum of 3 years.
You must complete your studies first before you can start this application. If you would like more information of obtaining a PGWP, please the Government of Canada's PGWP page.
Other important notes:
- As an international student considering graduate studies at Acadia University, you will need to show that you have $20,635 CDN, in addition to your first year of tuition and travel costs, available before you begin your student visa application.
- Once you have accepted your offer of admission, you should make contact with our International Student Advisor in the Wong International Centre by emailing international@acadiau.ca. An orientation program for new international students is held in late August or early September.
- The Halifax International Airport is 100 kilometres from the Acadia campus. This should be the final destination to which overseas flights are booked.