Athabasca University

130 Programs 5 Degree levels

An online interdisciplinary MA focus that examines paid and unpaid work, organizational change and ethical leadership using perspectives from social sciences, humanities, labour and gender studies. Suited to administrators, union members, HR professionals, NGO or public-sector workers and anyone interested in leadership and workplace change.

What you'll study

The focus draws on the humanities, social sciences, labour studies, gender studies and cultural studies to explore contemporary developments in work, organizations and leadership. Coursework trains you to think holistically and critically about paid and unpaid work, stable and precarious employment, organizational change and ethical leadership. You will learn to link broad theories of work to specific topics, develop problem-solving skills and consider policy-making strategies relevant to workplaces and leadership practice.

Entry requirements

Admission requires a baccalaureate degree and an academic writing assessment. Applicants are admitted to the MA–Interdisciplinary Studies program; after admission they must submit a study plan to declare the Work, Organization and Leadership focus. There are three intakes per year and MA–IS courses are offered in online paced-study and individualized-study formats.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to contribute to leadership, organizational development and change efforts across sectors. The focus is appropriate for people working in the public sector, non-governmental organizations, unions, human resources, administration and the corporate world, particularly those seeking deeper theoretical and practical perspectives on leadership and workplace change.

Scholarships & funding angle

Course tuition fees and program-related charges are listed on Athabasca University’s fees pages; program application and admission fees apply and some administrative fees (for example for transfers or continuations) may be charged. Prospective students should consult the university’s financial services and graduate funding information for details on fees, possible Indigenous tuition adjustments and available financial supports.

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Programme details are indicative and may change — always verify current information with the official university website before applying.