Master Of Family Studies And Gerontology (Non-thesis) at MSVU - Mount Saint Vincent University - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Program overview

The Master of Family Studies and Gerontology (Non-thesis) program at MSVU is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of family dynamics and the aging process. This program focuses on the challenges faced by individuals and families throughout their life course, emphasizing the importance of policies and programs that impact family well-being. Students will engage in critical thinking and research, preparing them for various professional roles in the field of family studies and gerontology. The program is particularly suited for those looking to advance their careers in community services, family life education, and social work.

Program structure

The Master of Family Studies and Gerontology (Non-thesis) program is structured to provide a robust educational experience over a specified program length. The program includes:

Course-based learning that emphasizes practical application of theories.
Opportunities for research involvement through the Nova Scotia Centre on Aging.
Access to state-of-the-art facilities at the Maritime Data Centre for Aging Research and Policy Analysis.
Flexible options for students, including the choice between thesis and non-thesis pathways.

This program is designed to equip students with the necessary skills to either pursue further academic studies or to enter the workforce with a strong foundation in family studies and gerontology.

Featured Experiences

The Master of Family Studies and Gerontology program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

Engagement in research projects through the Nova Scotia Centre on Aging.
Access to advanced facilities for research and policy analysis.
Opportunities to collaborate with faculty on community-based projects.
Networking opportunities with professionals in the field of aging and family services.
Participation in workshops and seminars that focus on current issues in family studies and gerontology.

Career Options

Graduates of the Master of Family Studies and Gerontology program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Social Worker: Provide support and resources to individuals and families facing challenges related to aging and family dynamics.
Family Life Educator: Develop and implement educational programs that promote healthy family relationships and effective parenting.
Community Development Worker: Work with communities to enhance services and programs that support families and older adults.
Gerontology Researcher: Conduct research on aging populations to inform policy and practice in the field.
Program Coordinator for Aging Services: Oversee programs that provide support and resources for older adults and their families.

These roles allow graduates to make a significant impact in their communities, addressing the needs of families and older individuals.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Master of Family Studies and Gerontology (Non-thesis) program, the following Academic Requirements apply:

Students will typically need to have completed an undergraduate degree in family science, aging/gerontology, sociology, psychology, or a related health profession (such as social work, nursing, health education, or pharmacy) with a minimum of a B average (3.0 GPA) in the last 10.0 units of study.

Additionally, applicants must have completed an undergraduate research methods course and an undergraduate statistics course as part of their background preparation for the program.

As part of the application process, students are required to submit a “Statement of Intent” letter, which is included in the Supplementary Information package for graduate admission. This letter should outline their knowledge of and purpose for applying to the program, identify future career goals, and explain how completing the program will help achieve these goals. They should also comment on how their past work, volunteer, and academic experiences may be beneficial in their intended program of study.

It is important to note that there is a Senate-approved process for recognizing prior learning to meet the admissions criteria.

Applicants must complete the Graduate Studies Application Package available online. Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For any clarification and support regarding the admission process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

If an applicant’s first language is not English, official reports with acceptable scores from one of the following tests must be submitted:

the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
the Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL) Test
the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
the Pearson Test of English (PTE)
the Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB)

When proof of English language proficiency is required, there are two options:

IELTS

7.0 or above (no individual band below 6.5) – Graduate Studies

CAEL

70 or above (no individual band below 70) – Graduate Studies

TOEFL (iB Test)

93 or above (no individual score below 23) – Graduate Studies

Pearson (PTE)

61 overall (no individual band below 54) – Graduate Studies

MELAB

85 or above – Graduate Studies

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!