Athabasca University

Programme overview

This Master of Arts (Interdisciplinary Studies) with a focus in Adult Education is a 33-credit, fully online master’s programme. Students declare this focus after admission by submitting a study plan to the Graduate Office. You must complete at least 18 credits through Athabasca University. Courses are available in paced study (defined start and end dates) and individualized study (monthly start dates). There are three intakes each year and the programme can be completed in as little as two years full-time, with an expected normal completion time of three to four years and a maximum allowed completion time of six years.

What you'll study

The focus area explores adult learning across community, workplace and daily life settings. Study emphasises:

• foundations of adult learning theory and motivations
• transformative learning approaches for building capability, connection and civic engagement
• design and evaluation of learning experiences for diverse adult learners
• community engagement and social-purpose education tools

Students complete their degree with a final integrated project or capstone paper, which may be undertaken through a paced capstone course or an individualized project tied to a professional or community issue.

Entry requirements

Admission to the MA Interdisciplinary Studies requires a baccalaureate degree and an academic writing assessment. Applicants are admitted to the overarching MA-IS programme and must submit a study plan post-admission to declare the Adult Education focus. Application deadlines are Jan. 15 for spring, May 15 for fall and Sep. 15 for winter intakes.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared to lead and design adult learning initiatives, support community development, and foster inclusive educational practice in workplaces, community organisations, public institutions and professional training settings.

Scholarships & funding angle

Fee details and program tuition are published by the university; applicants should consult institutional financial services for current tuition, association fees and any applicable Indigenous tuition reductions or scholarships. Consider employer support, professional development funding, and university bursaries or graduate awards where available.