Master of Arts (Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation)

Please Note [Oct. 17, 2023] - ADDENDA. The Program Requirements and Laddering sections have been updated. See Amendments to the Calendar for more information.

Both a thesis-based and a course-based option are available in the Master of Arts (MA) degree program. While both are research-oriented programs, the thesis program requires fewer courses and places more emphasis on the development of research skills.

Program Requirements

The minimum requirements for the thesis-based MA are the completion of 12 units in addition to the thesis. All students must successfully complete either KSR 580 or KSR 581 .

Students enrolled in the course-based MA degree program must complete as a minimum, the equivalent of 30 units. Students must successfully complete at least one of KSR 580 or KSR 581 (each 3 units). In addition, students must successfully complete a capping exercise (6 units). This will take the form of a completed research project, or successful completion of a comprehensive examination.

Although there is no formal residency requirement, some courses, research, teaching, funding, or supervisors may require an in-person presence on a University of Alberta campus or other related site.

Both thesis-based and course-based MA students are required to complete the Ethics and Academic Citizenship Requirement (INT D 710 ), and the professional development requirement (8 hours of professional development activities, and the Individual Development Plan).

Length of Program

The time required to complete the program will vary according to the previous training of the applicant and the nature of the research undertaken. Normally a minimum of two years is required to complete the program. Thesis-based master’s candidates must complete all the requirements within four years of the term in which they first register. Course-based master’s candidates must complete all the requirements within six years of the term in which they first register.

Laddering into the course-based MA/MARLS In Kinesiology, Sport, and Recreation

Students who complete the Graduate Certificate in Adapted Physical Activity , Graduate Certificate in Indigenous Sport and Recreation , Graduate Certificate in Sport and Recreation Management and/or Graduate Certificate in Coaching in good standing may be able to use the courses from these certificates to receive advanced standing in either MA program. Completion of the certificate does not guarantee admission to a master’s degree program. The certificate may be used for both the basis of admission and laddered into the course-based master degree. Details on laddering can be found in the Calendar under Regulations of the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research .