9.8. Master of Arts Integrated Studies (MAIS)
Designed specifically for flexibility and distance delivery, Athabasca University's MAIS program offers Canadian students unprecedented access to graduate-level studies, providing those with limited access to traditional universities the opportunity to pursue graduate studies at their own pace, in their own locale.
MAIS students will gain a broad, multifaceted, and critical perspective on how social and human systems operate and change, and will be provided with opportunities to integrate and apply their studies to their workplace and community.
The MAIS program is still in development but the first intake of students is scheduled for September 1, 2000. Initially, the program will comprise curriculum streams in educational and community studies, followed by work, organizations and leadership. Other streams will be added as student demand and resources allow. Suggested streams to date include: global and social change, cultural and cross-cultural studies, and information studies.
The MAIS program can be individualized to meet specific goals and needs. A rich, virtual learning environment will supplement each student's development by providing an opportunity to share ideas and experiences with others from many different walks of life.
Admission Requirements
Persons wishing to enrol in the MAIS program must hold a baccalaureate degree from a recognized post-secondary education institution.
Application Procedure
- Complete and submit the MAIS Application Form, along with the non-refundable application fee.
- Submit official transcripts* directly from an accredited institution
showing the granting of bachelor's degree.
*Applicants submitting official documents (e.g., transcripts) in a language other than English must provide an official translation of such documents. If the credential being submitted was earned outside North America, documentation attesting to its equivalence to a North American baccalaureate is required. Such documentation can be provided through the International Qualifications Assurance Services (IQAS) at the following address.
International Qualifications Assurance Services
4th Floor, Sterling Place
9940-106 Street
Edmonton, AB T5K 2V1
E-mail: iquas@gov.ab.ca
http://www.aecd.gov.ab.ca/iqas/
Enrolment
Once enrolled, students will be permitted to register in MAIS courses on a first-come, first-served basis, space permitting.
Credit Requirements
Thirty-three credits are required to complete the MAIS.
Program Status
Any student who receives a grade of "F" or more than one "C" in a core course
may be required to withdraw from the program.
Full- and Part-time Involvement
Students may study in the program on a full- or part-time basis. The expected normal completion time is three to four years. To comply with Alberta Students Finance requirements, full-time students must complete 6 credits per semester (two courses) to achieve a 66% load or 9 credits per semester (three courses) to achieve a 100% load.
Delivery Method
Asynchronous computer conferencing is used to enhance print-based courses. Learners will require access to a computer with specific configurations and software. Learners will be supplied with a basic course package of print and other media as deemed necessary (for example; textbooks, study guides, audiotapes, videotapes). In addition, they will be expected to use computer-mediated communication. Those students taking Master of Distance Education (MDDE) elective courses are required to register with the Centre for Distance Education as non-program students.
Students will be asked to design a program that includes the completion of:
- Two core courses: a theory course, and a research methods course
- 7 or 8 elective courses, for 21-24 credits. Electives presently available include:
| MDDE 601 | MDDE 614 |
| MDDE 611 | MDDE 617 |
| MDDE 613 | MDDE 651 |
one integrated project, for 3-6 credits
Library
Athabasca University Library also serves the needs of graduate students. See Section 10.8.
Income Tax Deductions
Application and tuition fees can be used to reduce income tax. Only fees paid and expended during the calendar year can be reflected in the tax receipt. Canada Customs and Revenue Agency regulations permit the University to issue an education tax credit receipt only for amounts greater than $100. Full-time students may be eligible for the education tax credit for each month of full-time registration. T2202 tax forms for the educational tax deduction along
with the tuition tax receipts are automatically mailed to the address on record in February.
Appeals
All students at Athabasca University, whether undergraduate or graduate, are bound by the same policies and regulations governing academic conduct and appeals. Refer to Section 12 Student Code of Conduct and Right to Appeal.
Transcripts and Confidential Information
Graduate students, like undergraduate students, are bound by the institution's policies, regulations, and procedures governing the release of transcripts and confidential information.
Master of Arts - Program Coordinator
Rebecca Heartt
Athabasca University
1 University Drive
Athabasca, AB T9S 3A3
Information Centre (800) 788-9041 or (780) 675-6111
E-mail: mais@athabascau.ca
** This page is an official publication of Athabasca University **
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