The Master of Arts degree program in Recreation and Leisure Studies offers the opportunity to study leisure and leisure behaviour from a variety of social science perspectives., Students learn to conduct independent scholarly research of high calibre through their coursework (usually completed during the first year of study) and a thesis (normally completed during the second year of study under the supervision of a faculty member)., The thesis-based Master of Arts in Recreation of Leisure Studies is designed to:, increase knowledge of the theories and concepts of leisure and the contributions by the social sciences and humanities to the field, develop and strengthen research competencies including the use of research methods and designs in problem solving, hypothesis testing and theory development, increase understanding of the importance of the applications of theories, methods, and models associated with leisure in contemporary society, The MA program is intended for students who have demonstrated strong academic abilities at the undergraduate level. While there is a blend of applied and scholarly approaches, there is a strong emphasis on the ability to conceptualize and conduct independent research of high calibre.