Academic Programs - Graduate

Community Development

Experience an intensive, self-directed, and engaging program which combines study, research and professional work in community development. In this program, students benefit from the small-school advantage, working closely with faculty members who provide mentorship and support in the development of research and professional community engagement skills.

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Acadia's Master of Community Development program is a small, innovative, and interdisciplinary two-year program. In this program, students work closely with a supervisor on their research and thesis, as well as take additional courses to supplement their research and expand their knowledge in the discipline. Students gain applied experience through a professional or teaching practicum that is an integral part of the program.

If you have an undergraduate degree in a related discipline, are seeking a challenging program, and have a strong interest in one of the research areas of our department, we encourage you to apply.

Be Inspired

Acadia's Master of Community Development program is intentionally kept small so that students receive highly focused attention from faculty mentors, allowing the program to be customized to student needs, interests, and research. Acadia’s small size facilitates access to faculty from related departments throughout the University for assistance with academic coursework and research. Our faculty are strongly connected with community organizations and with local centres of excellence focused on collaborations between university and community.

Research Interests

  • Ecotourism/Sustainable Tourism/Indigenous Ecotourism
  • Community Youth Leadership
  • Sustainable Community Development
  • Environmental Education
  • Sustainable Food Systems
  • Environmental Sustainability
  • Community Leadership, Systems Chang, and Equity
  • Healthy Active Living, Community Design, and Government Policy
  • Natural Parks Management

Program at a Glance

Courses take place in-person at Acadia University.

Year One -
First Term

  • CODE 5960
    Thesis
  • CODE 5033
    Community Development Seminar
  • CODE 5xx3
    Elective

Year One -
Second Term

  • CODE 5960
    Thesis
  • CODE 5543
    Community Development Research Methods
  • CODE *5xx3
    Elective

Year One -
Third Term

  • CODE 5960
    Thesis

Year Two -
First Term

  • CODE 5960
    Thesis
  • CODE 5056
    Community Development Practicum

Year Two -
Second Term

  • CODE 5960
    Thesis Completion

* Only one of the two electives is required. You may choose an elective in either the fall or winter.

 
 

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Acadia

As a small university, we can provide you with an experience that you won't find in a large institution or research university.

Begin your application today. The application is a multi-step form that does not have to be completed in one sitting; simply make sure that you save your progress before exiting.

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