About Acadia

Our Students

Distance study and online courses have changed the definition of what it means to be a university student; it's now easier than ever to accommodate an Acadia experience into your lifestyle.  Over the years, our Distance Studies programs have welcomed students from a variety of different backgrounds and lifestyles, including students from other institutions, military personnel, lifelong learners, and more.

Our students have chosen to study at Acadia for a number of reasons, but many cite the same factors: the flexible nature of our open-entry courses, and the type of credibility and rigorous academic curriculum that can only come from one of Canada's top undergraduate universities.

Our Service

Acadia is known for its community spirit, and we make the effort to extend this to our online students around the globe.  Our friendly client service representatives are here for you, and available in ways that meet your needs and preferences: email, telephone, or even live online chat. 

Online courses are taught by experienced Acadia faculty members.  As you progress in your course, you'll be able to contact your professor with your questions.

Our University

Founded in 1838, Acadia University has long been recognized as one of Canada's premier undergraduate institutions. With its nationally and internationally recognized research initiatives, small classes, and technology-rich teaching and learning environment, Acadia offers students an experience that includes academic achievement combined with personal growth and development.

"Acadia is a fine university in all kinds of ways - it is palpable - you can feel the commitment to a high quality education and you see it by the awards to faculty and the success of our students and our alumni," says Ray Ivany, Acadia's president and vice-chancellor. "Acadia's commitment to academic rigour and excellence is obviously part of who we are, and part of being a top-tier university in Canada, and in the world."

Acadia was built on the belief that everyone has a right to higher education, regardless of class, belief, gender, or race. In 1838, at a time when money was scarce, the community pulled together to create a special place for learning. Women knitted and sold mittens to raise funds and canvassed for materials; men felled trees and built the first academic halls - Acadia University was established. Acadia's stylized "A" depicts crossed axes to remind us of the determination and pride that is the Acadia Spirit. That spirit has sparked many successes for Acadia.

The university has the distinction of being the only Canadian university inducted into the Smithsonian Institution for its pioneering use of technology in the classroom. Acadia professors continue to set the standard for innovative classroom instruction today. Acadia is also the only university to have placed first in all four categories (best overall, highest quality, most innovative, and leaders of tomorrow) in Maclean's annual reputation survey. In the 18 years that Maclean's has done this survey, Acadia has ranked as the most innovative undergraduate institution 15 times.

"Acadia's combination of small, personalized classes and a rich computing environment provides special opportunities for Acadia students," explains Tom Herman, Acadia's vice-president, academic.

More than 170 years after its founding, the world is witnessing the influence of this liberal arts university - one whose visionary approach to academic excellence continues to set a benchmark.