Athabasca University

I am about to finish my MA from Athabasca. I was a bit sceptical when i started - I chose Athabasca because I move around alot and needed my degree to come with me. BUT as time went on, I began to realize that I was actually working much harder than my friends who were doing Master's degrees at "regular" Universities. And by working hard I mean that is a GOOD thing. The program is academically challenging, very diverse and I would recommend it. It is probably more autonomous than class-room style courses but if you are self-motivated, you can do very well at Athabasca, get to know some cool professors and peers and learn a great deal.

I just completed Master of Arts- Integrated Studies and the experience was challenging, rewarding and first-rate. I did have reservations about completing the entire degree in an online environment but my concerns were unfounded. The Professors and Tutors were professional and knowledgeable.Several of the course textbooks were written by teaching professors and others were involved in current research. In no manner do I consider this educational experience "watered -down" compared to traditional universities. My first two degrees were granted from traditional universities and the learning experience was not up to par with AU. I highly recommend AU.

I completed my 4 year BA at Athabasca (with some course work done at the U of A as well) with a double major in sociology and psychology. Overall It was an excellent experience. I did have one poor tutor throughout the whole process but in my time at the U of A I discovered poor instructors also (as I imagine you can occassionally end up with at any school). The tutor I had issues with became much more responsive once tutor services were contacted as they dealt with the concern very promptly. There were some administrative issues towards the end of my degree where several of their senior level sociology courses were under renovations when I was completing my degree and needed to complete them, but they worked with me to ensure I worked things out. Apart from this unwelcome stress at the end of my degree, the experience was quite good. I also saw above a post referring to Jim Brophy, an instructor at AU. I had him for a course and found him to be excellent; he was passionate about his subject matter, interested in what I was planning for my final project and overall a great tutor who I would be happy to have had for multiple courses. I am now starting the MAIS program and am excited about taking it on. I hope to complete a phd in the future and hope that the MAIS degree will be a good stepping stone for further gradute studies.

Almost done my degree now, I find the courses in the Leadership spec track very challenging and relevant, and the professors are supportive and knowledgeable. The admin people always answer my emails within a day, and are quite helpful.

Athabasca U's MAIS program is ideal for working adults who want the intellectual challenges and rewards of an advanced liberal arts program, but with minimal disruptions to their family life and professional career.