Athabasca University

What you'll study

Course work explores theories, methods and practices that support sustainable community development and community-based organizing. Topics addressed include community leadership, education, community economic development, social movements, and the interaction of public, private, non-profit and voluntary sectors with communities. The degree finishes with a final integrative product — either a paced capstone course or an individual study project that links research to a work or community issue.

Entry requirements

Admission requires a baccalaureate degree and completion of an academic writing assessment. Applicants are admitted to the overall MA–Interdisciplinary Studies program and must submit a study plan to declare the Community Studies focus following acceptance.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for leadership and specialist roles in civic engagement, community development, social enterprises, non-profit and public sector organizations, and community-facing work in health, education and social services. The program emphasizes capacity building, network development and applied strategies for addressing complex social, economic and ecological challenges.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Tuition is charged per course; an estimated total program tuition (2026–2027) for a student taking all AU courses while living in Canada is provided by the university. Fees and ancillary charges (application, admission, student association, administration and materials fees) apply; Athabasca University lists course tuition differentials for domestic, Indigenous and international students and a 10% Indigenous tuition reduction on the graduate tuition portion beginning Sep. 1, 2026. Prospective students should consult AU financial services and program pages for up-to-date fee and funding information.