Pursuing Master of Arts-Integrated Studies: Reasons and Expectations

Primary reasons am applying for Master of Arts- Integrated Studies

I chose to pursue the degree in this university for many reasons. To begin with, I believe the degree course will offer me a unique and great opportunity to engage in a study program that cut across the fields of humanities, arts and social sciences. From the testimonials from the former students in the degree program, I understand that the degree program has comprehensive scope but has an individualized specific focus. This requires the students to at least choose one focus area to do an inquiry. This is relevant to me because I will be able to choose a particular area of study which interests me in addition to having a comprehensive scope of the general field.

Another reason I am applying for this integrated program is the kind of teachings the students are offered. The students in the program are taught to reason and think critically, holistically, and reflectively and to give much focus on the points of overlap and articulations between the generalized and specialized knowledge. Furthermore, I believe that exposure of the students to a wide variety of interdisciplinary methods and disciplines will prepare me to envisage and look for innovative solutions to different problems in my area of expertise.

Similarly, another propelling reason am applying for the degree course is the belief that the degree will teach me to contextualize and  situate practices and knowledge on a wide intellectual continuum which integrates methods, practices and  theories of humanities, arts and social sciences. As an educator, this is significant for me in my profession as I will be able to apply what I have learnt in practice.

Another primary reason why I chose to apply for the integrated course at Athabasca University is sufficient and adequate cost of education compared to other universities. Furthermore, the assigned texts and reading files are very informative and relevant. From the university newsletter and website, I learnt that the instructors are competent, qualified and responsive to the academic needs of the students. I believe this will be helpful for me during my studies.

My intellectual area of interest

My interest is education and I hope to use this program to balance out my current profession of teaching.

What I want to achieve through the MAIS program

I have high expectations on what I want to achieve after going through the integrated program in Athabasca University. From the degree program, I want to join one of the top institutions in the country and do a profession that will provide well for my family. Furthermore, I aim to do exceptional coursework that I will be proud of always.

Moreover, I have great hope and belief to innovate an idea or solution that will bring change in the education field if not the entire education system. This way, it will act as an encouragement to other prospecting students to wishing to join and pursue the program and bring change in their other relevant areas of expertise.

Resources, experience and skills that will facilitate my completion of the degree

I believe the experience and the skills I have gained in the education field will assist me much in maneuvering and going through the degree course. Much say than done, I have a sponsorship from my employer which I believe will facilitate the funding of the school fees, educational necessities in addition to my salary for my up keep. Furthermore, I believe the tutor will be of much help to assist me wherever I have a query or when I need assistance with the class work.

Another important resource I will bank on is the online learning centers and forums of the university. Through making contribution and reviewing other researched essays of other students, I believe I will gain a lot. Moreover, I believe participation in online student discussions on my course related subjects and topics, posting critiques and articles, making comments on other coursework done by other students, I will able to be upbeat with the current information.

Additional Comments

After going through the reviews of the alumni of Athabasca University, I believe this is one of the high quality graduate programs the university is offering. Although it has many similarities to the graduate programs, the major difference is that it is more demanding and most of the students are professionals in various fields with high learning expectations. Additionally, Athabasca University is neither for the faint hearted nor the lazy. Generally, the university is designed and well suited for the mature students like me, who have a will to be disciplined in their daily studies.