Acadia University is leading a period of significant change
We are creating a new vision for what Acadia can and must do to support students to learn, grow, and be prepared to face the complexities of our world. Universities across the country are facing pressures on funding, finances, enrolment, and student expectations. We are at a critical moment to meet these challenges and reimagine Acadia.
We are inspired by the work, innovation, and dedication of our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and partners. There is energy on campus as people push boundaries, explore what is possible, and (re)imagine what Acadia can become.
We want to elevate our liberal education and our student-centred model at Acadia to be more responsive to the needs of our region and to a rapidly changing world while preparing students with the skills and tools to navigate their futures.
Proposing a Reorganization of our Programs Structure
Acadia is proposing a reorganization of our current academic and support programs that are divided into 3 Faculties, 9 Schools and 19 Departments into a new structure.
Fewer divisions bring together disciplines and programs and create more opportunities for collaboration. We anticipate faculty and staff will continue discussions around more inter- and multi-disciplinary partnerships. We hope that this structure creates an environment in which we can continue to evolve as a university.
This concept encourages an all-campus approach to student supports, providing students the education and services they require.
Why now?
Acadia hasn’t performed a major review of its academic structure in half a century. A more responsive approach to student needs is necessary, and this new structure can help us get there. Acadia must respond to current pressures, such as financial and enrolment challenges, a government-mandated program review (Schedule H), and Bill 12 if it is to continue delivering the educational experience it promises its students.
What This Means for Students
The reorganization of our programs into different groupings and administrative structures does not impact your current programs. You will continue your degree program uninterrupted. Furthermore, these changes would not begin to take effect until July 1, 2027.
What you can expect of these changes
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Stronger academic and student supports: Advisors, accessible learning support, student life roles, curriculum and teaching support, and career and experiential learning coordination will all be more closely connected to your programs.
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More collaboration: With fewer barriers between units, faculty can work more easily across disciplines, opening possibilities for new courses, combined programs, and innovative learning opportunities.
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Enhanced student leadership and voice: There will be clearer ways for students to be involved in decision-making and providing feedback on academic matters. The ASU and their related committees will continue, and program-based societies wwill continue as usual.
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Program renewal and innovation: Through the restructuring and the ongoing program review process (Schedule H), there is a focus on updating and creating programs that better reflect student priorities and changing futures.
This new proposed academic structure will allow for more free-flowing collaboration and creativity among faculty in both academic programming and research, and will send a message to the province and the country that Acadia is an active leader in shaping the future through our research, community engagement, and education of the next generation of leaders, changemakers, creators, entrepreneurs, community builders, and democratic citizens.
Universities must evolve to better support students in an increasingly complex world. Listening to our community has shaped the proposed path forward.