Associate of Arts

Entry Requirements

• Canadian High School (Grade 12) diploma or equivalent with an overall average of C or better (2.0 on a 4.33 scale)  

          OR
 

• Twenty-one (21) years of age or older and out of high school for at least two years, and
• Documented success through academic, professional or volunteer activities  

         AND
 

• For students whose first language is not English, academic IELTS - 6.5 or better with a minimum of 6.0 in the writing band, or equivalent. More information is available in the English Proficiency section of this website.
• For students who need to upgrade to meet our English proficiency requirements, UCW offers English pathway courses in our University Access Program

Program Structure
The Associate of Arts program is an interdisciplinary set of courses designed to provide core skills in writing, communication, research and team performance. UCW Academic Advisors can help with your course selection to meet your post-secondary education goals.
Preparatory
NSO 098 - Student Orientation
Through this mandatory orientation students come to understand their academic expectations, requirements, and rights and responsibilities at University Canada West. Students learn how to access university services and systems that they need for success in their studies. Orientation includes practices of information literacy, academic integrity, critical thinking and academic writing. 
Tier 1 University Foundation I
Tier 1 courses establish the basic university skills of research and writing while introducing you to a variety of disciplines and topics. Our experienced instructors will prepare you for continued academic success.
Two (2) first-year English courses (6 credits)
One (1) Science course (3 credits)
One (1) Mathematics or Computing Science course (3 credits)
Two (2) Humanities courses (6 credits)
Two (2) Social Science courses (6 credits)
Two (2) Arts elective courses (6 credits)
Tier 2 University Foundation II
Tier 2 courses build a broader academic exposure and deeper exploration in a variety of subject areas. You have the opportunity to further demonstrate critical thinking, analytical, quantitative and communication skills.
One (1) Lab Science course (3 credits)
Six (6) second-year Arts courses (18 credits)
Three (3) general electives (9 credits)
For a comprehensive list of all available courses, please refer to the Academic Calendar here