AU openness 2 AU student sara 3 AU flexibility 4 AU student pheonix 5 au innovation 6 AU professor jay smith 7 AU excellence 8 AU student marc 9

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2 CHEck out the view at AU Welcome to your AU Viewbook, your view to a closer look at Athabasca University, Canada s top distance education and online learning university. We know your life is busy, so we ve prepared this convenient guide that summarizes the more than 90 undergraduate and graduate degree, diploma and certificate programs AU offers. Please take some time to explore the pages that follow and find the university solutions that suit you best. To learn specific details about the more than 700 AU courses available, be sure to visit athabascau.ca. We look forward to helping you stand out as you pursue your educational goals. viewbook contents AU openness 2 AU student sara 3 AU flexibility 4 AU student pheonix 5 au innovation 6 AU professor jay smith 7 AU excellence 8 AU student marc 9 UNDERGRADUATE degrees 10 Arts 12 Business 14 Computing and Information Systems 16 General Studies 18 Health administration 20 Human Resources and Labour Relations 22 Nursing 24 Professional Arts 26 science 28 GRADUATE PROGRAMS 30 arts 32 Business 34 counselling 36 distance education 38 nursing and health studies 40 information systems 42 Certificates and diplomas 44 AU student sebastian 46 AU student christine 47 next steps 48 3

3 AU Openness: Feel free to pursue your educational dreams AU doesn t close the doors on your educational pursuits. We make sure they re wide open. That s because our philosophy is to remove geographical, financial, social and cultural barriers that limit post-secondary access. In fact, we guarantee access to university-level study to anyone 16 years of age or over. As Canada s Open University, we provide many opportunities for students to pursue a post-secondary education. If you re from another university in Canada, you may want to pick up AU courses to be used as credit at your home university. Or if you re thinking about an AU degree, your two-year diploma can count for two years of credit toward your degree. AU is also open to growth, having doubled our student numbers over a sixyear period. We proudly serve over 37,000 students per year in 87 countries worldwide. And since 1970 more than 260,000 students have registered at AU. So why not be the next person to pursue your educational dreams at AU? Your spot has been reserved! 4 AU student 5 Sara in London, England

4 AU Flexibility: You re unique, and so is your schedule Once upon a time, you couldn t use the words university and flexible in the same sentence. Well that s not the case any more. AU is structured to fit the specific needs of your lifestyle. So it s education on your terms, not ours. There s no need to worry about an old-fashioned application deadline, and all the anxiety that comes with it. With monthly start times and AU s continuous enrolment philosophy, you enter your area of study when you re ready. AU flexibility also means you can experience all the advantages of a traditional university in a non-traditional setting like your home, office, cabin or wherever you may find yourself. And once you get started, you can keep right on studying. More than 90 per cent of AU students study all year around. And there s no need to sacrifice your career for your education 81 per cent of AU students work while studying for their degrees. 6 AU student Phoenix 7 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

5 AU innovation: new ideas, new technology, new learning solutions Fresh thinking means providing learning solutions tailor-made for the courses you re taking. At AU, courses are delivered in a variety of ways, from online to print-based to teleconferencing and video. We re also researching the delivery of course materials using mobile devices. Post-Diploma Programs AU s post-diploma degree programs let students with a two or three year diploma from recognized accredited post-secondary institutions receive blocks of transfer credit for their diplomas. Often, approved two-year diplomas in an area directly related to an AU degree program can receive two years of credit (60 credits). PLAR You may be eligible for additional credits through AU s Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition process. PLAR awards credits for learning you have acquired from non-formal education such as work and life experience, job training, and workshops. Another innovation is the AU Press, launched in This is Canada s 21st century university press, where research and knowledge is disseminated online through digital media as well as print. Dr. Jay Smith in 8 Edmonton, Alberta, Dr. Jay Canada 9Smith in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

6 AU Excellence: You deserve the best learning experience possible As a world leader in distance and online education, AU strives to make your educational experience an excellent one. From the world s first online MBA, to our first online doctorate program in 2008, AU is always looking for new ways to expand educational horizons. AU has three Canada Research Chairs and a number of professors researching topics as diverse as the northern lights, Canadian social policy, and climate change. A major area of research is distance education itself. It allows AU to be in the forefront of the distance education field. AU is publicly funded and recognized as an accredited institution by the Province of Alberta. Through the Post-secondary Learning Act, the government authorizes Athabasca University to grant degrees. 10 AU student Marc in 11 Toronto, Ontario, Canada

7 ARTS Bachelor of ARTS INTRODUCING AU S UNDERGRADUATE degrees Choices, choices, and still even more choices. This is the section that sheds more light on AU s wide selection of undergraduate programs. Not quite sure of the area of study you want to pursue? Have a look at the summary of the different programs that we offer. Or, if you re already certain of your area of interest, please read through the program summary that pertains to you. If you ve always wanted a university degree, whether it s for personal or professional achievement, you re mere pages away from making it happen. Go for it now! BUSINESS BACHELOR OF COMMERCE Bachelor of Management COMPUTING AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTING AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS GENERAL STUDIES BACHELOR OF GENERAL STUDIES health administration bachelor of health administration HUMAN RESOURCES AND LABOUR RELATIONS BACHELOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES AND LABOUR RELATIONS NURSING bachelor of nursing professional arts bachelor of professional arts science bachelor of science bachelor of science in human science 13

8 ARTS Arts: Become well-versed and versatile at the same time It s often been called the foundational degree, and once you have one, it leads the way to a new world of options. It s the AU Bachelor of Arts, and it could very well be what you ve been searching for. By choosing arts as your degree path, you ll broaden your horizons by studying subject matter that runs from a to z. There s no better way to discover where your true passions lie, while at the same time honing your learning skills, your research skills and your analytical skills. An arts degree prepares you to be a critical thinker with highly transferable and sought-after skills. Upon completion, you may wish to enter graduate school. Or decide to take your well-rounded education and enter the work force. Arts degree grads work just about everywhere. An arts degree teaches you about yourself and the world around you and is a rock-solid academic foundation on which to build your career. Bachelor of Arts Three-year (90 credits) degree Four-year (120 credits) degree Concentrations/majors in: Anthropology Canadian Studies * English French General** History Humanities Information Systems Labour Studies Political Economy Political Science Psychology Sociology Women s Studies * four-year degree only ** three-year degree only

9 BUSINESS business: When it comes to your career, we mean business The bottom line? We offer a variety of undergraduate business programs to address the needs of a wide spectrum of students. So whether you re an entry-level employee or a recent college graduate, are currently studying business at another institution, or are a professional or middle manager who needs a specific university degree or certificate to move your career to the next level, AU has the answer. And here s a real advantage that makes great business sense. Unlike other universities where students must complete one or two years of a business program, then compete for space in order to finish the degree, you can simply enter your AU business program in year one. Your business education from Athabasca University equips you with the specialized skills and knowledge that employers are looking for, as well as the vital critical thinking, communication and management skills required to advance quickly in your chosen career. Bachelor of commerce Bachelor of management four-year (120 credits) degree or post-diploma degree General degree or majors in: Accounting E-Commerce Financial Services three-year (90 credits) degree or post-diploma degree four-year (120 credits) degree or post-diploma degree general degree or majors in: Human Resources Management Indigenous nations and organizations Marketing

10 Computing and information systems computing and information systems: A career choice worth analyzing Have you always been inquisitive, tech-savvy and possess an aptitude for math? If so, then AU s Bachelor of Science in Computing and Information Systems will be right up your alley. With this undergraduate degree, you ll enhance your analytical abilities as you learn to solve complex questions using a variety of software tools, operating systems, and languages. The program equips you with the skills necessary for developing and utilizing computer-based information systems in business, education, and other sectors that require processing and management of information. Successful AU Computing and Information Systems grads work in this diverse field as computer and network operators, database analysts, software development specialists, webmasters, and many other satisfying career areas. Another advantage to consider when you enrol in this program is the fact that many of the faculty are active e-learning researchers, and several are world-leaders in their field, so you ll definitely be in good company. Bachelor of SCIENCE in computing and information systems Four-year (120 credits) degree or post diploma degree 18 19

11 General studies general studies: A STUDY in flexibility There s a reason General Studies is one of AU s most popular programs. And that reason is flexibility. This degree is as flexible as it gets, which means you have a ton of options available. If you have post-secondary experience at one or more post-secondary institutions like a college, technical institute or university, your credits can count toward your GS degree. There s no minimum number of courses you must complete from AU, so you just need to gather your post secondary credits together and simply complete what s missing. And while we re on the subject of flexibility, here s another GS benefit to consider. You have the choice of either an Arts and Science or an Applied Studies degree designation depending on your interests. Bachelor of GENERAL STUDIES three-year (90 credits) degree with designations in: Arts and science applied studies 20 21

12 health administration health administration: sharpen your skills If you re a health care administrator or manager, the AU Bachelor of Health Administration program will prove to be an invaluable educational experience. It s the perfect opportunity to sharpen your organizational, analytical and managerial skills to meet health care challenges head on. And if you re already a graduate of an approved diploma in business administration or related fields, you ll be eligible to receive up to 60 credits toward your degree. Bachelor of health administration Three-year (90 credits) degree or post-diploma degree 22 23

13 human resources and labour relations human resources and labour relations: the right degree for the job Do you find the study of employment relations fascinating, especially as it relates to social, legal, political and economic factors? Do you want to build your skills, gain new insight and take on more responsibility in your work place? Then the AU Human Resources and Labour Relations program is the perfect educational opportunity for you. It s an ideal fit if you re currently in labour relations, a trade unionist or a human resource specialist, and you re looking to build on your existing credentials. A key benefit is that you can work toward your degree and your designation at the same time. That s because the Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations meets the degree requirements for the Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP) Designation which takes effect in Or, if you currently hold a certificate or diploma as a human resources practitioner, you can use this degree to qualify for the CHRP designation. Bachelor of human resources and labour relations Three-year (90 credits) degree or post-diploma degree 24 25

14 nursing nursing: Knowledge that makes a difference Are you a practicing licensed practical nurse (LPN) or a registered nurse (RN)? Why not move up and get your Post LPN or Post RN Nursing degree while continuing to work and studying part-time online? An AU Bachelor of Nursing degree lets you take your current LPN credits and use them toward your nursing degree. The program features a flexible course delivery so you can work while studying. For RNs, you can use your credits toward a Post RN degree that focuses on building knowledge and clinical practice related to family and community health promotion as well as leadership and management. Bachelor of nursing Two-year (60 credits) post RN degree Three-year (90 credits) post lpn degree 26 27

15 Professional arts professional arts: Use your diploma as a springboard to a degree Your college diploma whet your appetite for learning, but you want more. That s why there s the AU Professional Arts degree. If you have an approved college diploma or equivalent, you re in. This program gives you plenty of options, so one of the hardest decisions will be deciding which area of study to focus on. You can major in communication studies, criminal justice, governance, law and management, or human services. No matter what your area of employment, a professional arts degree will prove to be a definite asset. It s an ideal way to advance your education and further your career. For example, a degree in professional arts can move you up the ranks. Literally. If you re a criminal justice major, your professional arts education can advance your rank with police services and the military. Bachelor of professional arts Four-year (120 credits) Degree majoring in: Communication Studies Criminal Justice Governance, Law and Management Human Services 28 29

16 science science: Discover your career potential If you re a naturally curious person, and you re constantly setting sail on new voyages of discovery, then the AU Science degree has all the elements you re looking for. It s time to get discovering, experimenting, learning and growing. Your fascinating educational journey will include courses like scientific reasoning, the history of science, ethics, technology, and the environment. The skills you acquire will prove to be invaluable during your science career. If you re interested in studying human science, you can customize your degree to best suit your career goals. You can attain knowledge in health sciences, occupational or community health, biopharmaceuticals, management and administration, and research and technology. You may also have the opportunity to transfer credits to pre-medicine, pre-dentistry, and pre-veterinary programs at other universities across Canada. Bachelor of science Bachelor of science in human science Four-year (120 credits) degree or post-diploma degree Four-year (120 credits) degree or post-diploma degree 30 31

17 Arts Master of Arts - Integrated Studies welcome to the au graduate programs Turn your commitment to life-long learning into an opportunity to fulfill a life-long dream. Earn your master s degree online with AU. Becoming an AU grad student is all about taking your education to the next level. It s about pushing boundaries, achieving personal academic goals and going beyond your expectations. Athabasca University provides innovative, Internet-based graduate programs that reach students around the world. Each program offers a spectrum of courses relevant to today s work environment. Will it be challenging? Yes. Rewarding? Beyond words. Graduate Diploma in Heritage Resources Management Graduate Diploma in Legislative Drafting Business Doctorate in Business Administration Master of Business Administration Graduate Diploma in Management Counselling Master of Counselling Post-Graduate Certificate in Counselling Post-Masters Certificate in Counselling Distance Education Doctor of Education in Distance Technology Master of Distance Education Graduate Diploma in Distance Education Technology Graduate Diploma in Instructional Design Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design Health Master of Health Studies Master of Nursing Advanced Graduate Diploma: Advanced Nursing Practice Information Systems Master of Science - Information Systems 33

18 arts arts: a degree built for you by you The AU Master of Arts Integrated Studies (MAIS) isn t your typical graduate program. It s really about studying areas of interest and experience that pertain specifically to your requirements. Customization is key, since you design the learning program that best suits your needs. Unlike most degrees, the MAIS curriculum crosses the boundaries of arts, humanities, and the social sciences. It s a degree that will challenge you to ask questions and explore all avenues of a problem. The MAIS degree prepares you to view problems holistically, to seek information in new locations, to combine knowledge and research from diverse disciplines, and to explore interdisciplinary methods. This exciting style of learning will bring a fresh, new, and more knowledgeable approach to your workplace or your community. master of arts Integrated Studies master of arts integrated studies independent track or Specialization in: Educational Studies Work, Organization, and Leadership Global Change Canadian Studies* Information Studies* Adult Education Cultural Studies Community Studies Historical Studies* Equity Studies (open) * These areas of concentration are under development and may be subject to change. Degrees will not be awarded with these 34 specializations at this time. 35 Also available: Graduate Diploma in Heritage Resources Management Graduate Diploma in legislative drafting

19 BUSINESS Business: the source of online business excellence As an experienced manager, you can be confident you re making an excellent choice when you take an AU MBA. That s because this is the original online MBA. It all started back in 1994 when AU s Centre for Innovative Management launched the world s first fully interactive online Executive MBA program. Since then it s grown to become Canada s largest Executive MBA, and has been internationally recognized for its quality and student success stories. So why not put our online MBA experience to work for you? If you ve considered an executive MBA while balancing work, family and your studies, the perfect solution has arrived. This rigorous and collaborative program will allow you to learn alongside other experienced managers and leaders from across Canada and around the world. Not only will you learn from your fellow students who are working in diverse industries and positions, you ll work with an outstanding team of academics. Best of all, the 24-hour online format means you can balance work and family commitments and study at the same time. Master of Business administration Doctorate in business administration Online Executive MBA: MBA with Project Management electives MBA with Energy Management Electives Also available: Graduate Diploma in Management Doctorate in business administration (DBA)

20 counselling COUNSELLING: ENHANCE YOUR COUNSELLING SKILLS An AU master s degree in counselling is the ideal blend of theory and practice designed with you in mind. Whether you re interested in a career as a professional counsellor or a counselling psychologist, or are currently a counsellor wanting to take your skills to the next level, this degree will suit your needs. Your studies in this dynamic program will provide you with solid philosophical and theoretical counselling foundations. You ll also gain real-world counselling skills and strategies essential for working with a range of clientele using a variety of different techniques. master of counselling master of counselling specialization in: Counselling Psychology Career Counselling Also available: Post-Graduate Certificate in Counselling Post-Masters Certificate in Counselling

21 distance education distance education: go the distance Here s a great educational fit to take advantage of. Athabasca University is a leader in distance education and online learning, so it s not surprising that we offer graduate degrees in distance education itself. Courses are offered using the Moodle e-learning software platform, which provides you with a variety of flexible ways to communicate. You ll have opportunities to gain experience with a number of current and experimental delivery technologies and social software systems. And considering the subject matter is always evolving, you ll come away with the most up-to-date knowledge available. What better way to become an expert in the field of distance education than to learn from the distance education and online learning authority? You ll work with the most accomplished scholars in the business, including a Canada Research Chair who s a member of the faculty. master of distance education Doctor of education IN distance Education Master of Distance Education Also available: Graduate Diploma in Distance Education Technology Graduate Diploma in Instructional Design Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design Doctor of education (EdD) IN distance Education undergraduate programs degrees graduate graduate programs programs Certificates and diplomas

22 nursing and health studies nursing and health studies: develop new leadership skills Add to your nursing and health care leadership skills with two master s degree options from AU. The Master of Nursing program contains two streams. The generalist stream prepares you to assume more of a leadership position in the health system. The program provides you with advanced skills that will help you spot trends and provide the leadership to get things done. The advanced stream prepares you for a broader role in the delivery of health services to clients of all ages as a community-based nurse. It delivers the theoretical and clinical preparation you ll need to take on this leading-edge role. The master s program in health studies has a similar mandate to prepare you as a health professional to take on a leadership role as health care changes. The program gives you the skills to identify emerging trends and anticipate future directions in health services and provide leadership in planning, implementation, evaluation, change management, and policy development. master of NURSING master of HEALTH Studies master of NURSING master of HEALTH Studies Also available: Advanced Graduate Diploma: Advanced Nursing Practice undergraduate programs degrees graduate graduate programs programs Certificates and diplomas

23 information systems information systems: taking technology to the next level Are you an information systems professional interested in expanding your knowledge base and advancing your career in the information technology sector? Then an AU Master of Science Information Systems degree will suit you perfectly. As an MScIS student, you ll develop a common base of skills, knowledge and values in computing and information systems. This program focuses on integration of theory and practice, plus the development of technical, analytical and socio-technical management and communication skills needed by leaders in the IT industry. As an MScIS graduate, you can look forward to a challenging career in the growing national and international information technology and service sector. You ll be qualified for senior-level positions in database and web design, advanced language programming, network design, project management, software development, business operations, e-commerce, research, and systems administration. Master of Science Information Systems Master of Science Information Systems undergraduate programs degrees graduate graduate programs programs Certificates and diplomas

24 Certificate of Completion English Language Proficiency Program au certificates and diplomas An AU certificate or diploma is an ideal way to start your post-secondary quest for knowledge. Build your educational credentials or employment qualifications as you pursue the area of interest that appeals to you. University Certificate Accounting Administration Advanced Accounting Career Development Computers and Management Information Systems Computing and Information Systems Counselling Women e-commerce English Language Studies Financial Services French Language Proficiency Health Development Administration Heritage Resources Management Human Resources and Labour Relations Labour Studies Management applications management foundations Marketing Public Administration University Diploma Arts Inclusive Education 47 undergraduate programs degrees graduate graduate programs programs Certificates and diplomas

25 AU student and pro football player Sebastian 48 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada AU master s student Christine in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada 49

26 next steps Now that you have a better idea about the different AU programs available, we encourage you to visit athabascau.ca for more information about the specific area of study you are interested in. Whatever your educational goals, AU s online and distance learning methods will help you stand out. So be sure to research your options online. We also invite you to order a University calendar, and to contact our Information Centre if you have questions or need some advice. Canada/U.S.: International: Or check out askau.ca, our online resource to provide answers to questions about Athabasca University. 50

27 Website Inquiries Phone (Canada/U.S.) or