Sociocultural Studies (MA)

sociocultural

In all its forms, physical activity has the power to take people to new heights and bring people together from around the world.

The Sociocultural Studies in Kinesiology field fosters the examination of the social, cultural and global/political impacts of physical activity, exercise and sport, and helps develop a broader understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of these influences.

Thesis-based

The thesis-based option emphasizes learning through research and the concentration of study on a specific topic that promotes depth of knowledge. Students work closely with a supervisor to produce a research study by gathering original data and applying methodologies to the study of a question that may advance knowledge in the selected field.

NOTE: Students must contact prospective research supervisors (see below) prior to submitting an application to the thesis-based program.

Course-based

(Note: Not accepting applications for 2024, please refer to the new MKin course-based program)

Students guide the content of their program by selecting courses based on their areas of interest to expand their breadth of knowledge in the field. By gathering information from existing sources, students construct a major paper about a specialized topic or question, and present it to the University community.

NOTE: Students are not required to contact a supervisor prior to submitting an application to the course-based program.

Thesis-Based

Duration

12 to 24 months. Students are enrolled during all 3 academic terms (Fall, Winter and Summer). Most students complete their master’s degree within 18-24 months.

Course Load

2.0 credits (4 one term courses)

  • 0.5 Credits are required courses:
    • Research methods or statistics 0.5
  • 1.5 Credits selected by the student and supervisor suitable for the student’s area of research.
Non-course Milestone Requirement:

Thesis or Major Research Paper and Presentation

Thesis. The formal statement of the theory, source materials, methodology, and findings of a student's major research project. It must be a complete and sufficient document that does not require subsidiary information to substantiate its findings.

Internship

No

Course-Based

Duration

12 to 24 months. Students are enrolled during all 3 academic terms (Fall, Winter and Summer). Most students complete their master’s degree within 18-24 months.

Course Load

4.0 credits (8 one term courses)

  • 4.0 Credits selected by the student and course-based coordinator suitable for the student’s area of research.
Non-course Milestone Requirement:

Thesis or Major Research Paper and Presentation

Major paper and presentation. This paper focuses on a critical evaluation of a topic or question. It will be graded by faculty with appropriate interest and expertise. Upon completion, the student will present the topic to the Western University community.

Internship

No

* indicates thesis-based supervisors
^ indicates course-based supervisors