www.viu.ca/programs Bachelor of Arts 4-year Degree Programs in Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Enjoy the Journey
Students select at least one Major or two Minors from the following disciplines: Majors Minors Anthropology Anthropology Creative Writing Biology Criminology Business Economics Chemistry English Computing Science First Nations Studies Creative Writing Geography Earth Science Global Studies Economics Graphic Design English History First Nations Studies Liberal Studies Geography Philosophy Global Studies Physical Education History Psychology Languages and Culture Sociology (Romance Languages) Women s Studies Liberal Studies Mathematics Media Studies Philosophy Physical Education Political Science Psychology Sociology Theatre Visual Art Women s Studies Vancouver Island University s Bachelor of Arts degree, with selected Majors and Minors, builds on our strong record of arts undergraduate education, dating back to 1969. Our graduates have gone on to graduate schools and professional schools at major universities, while others have used their degree to enter successful careers. At the lower-level, we offer courses in some 50 disciplines and interdisciplinary studies. At the upper-level, the BA program offers selected Majors and Minors, and new ones are being developed. A liberal arts education is both valuable in itself and as a foundation for a wide variety of careers. Given its range and flexibility, the BA degree provides a sound preparation for both employment and further education. Students are advised
to consult graduate school calendars for specific entrance requirements. Admission Requirements Applicants are eligible for admission if they meet one of the following conditions: graduation from a BC secondary school, or equivalent*, with a minimum C grade in English 12; previous degree from a recognized university; visiting student from a college or university (a Letter of Permission from the home institution is required); transfer student from a college or university (at least 24 transferable university-level credits completed); mature student at least 21 years of age (or will turn 21 in the first semester of admission) and has a minimum C grade in English 12. * See an Advisor for information on equivalencies. Notes on Admission Students may enter Vancouver Island University at any point prior to the beginning of their third year. No more than 60 credits may be transferred from elsewhere towards our BA. In their first two years, students should choose courses with their intended Major and/or Minors in mind. Degree Planning At the end of their first year (or in the semester when they will be completing a minimum of 24 credits), students should see a BA Degree Advisor to declare their chosen Major and/ or Minors program. The BA Degree Advisor will authorize program codes and set up a Record of Degree Program using our Automated Program Planner, assist the student with program planning and answer any questions the student might have regarding program and/or degree completion. Students can change their official Record of Degree Program at anytime by advising the BA Degree Advisor and requesting changes to their program codes. Degree Advisors for Bachelor of Arts programs are: Robert Riggan email: riggan@viu.ca; local 2603 Lynda Patterson email: pattersol@viu.ca; local 2178 Requirements for Majors and Minors In addition to general degree requirements detailed in the online calendar www.viu.ca/programs, students complete
at least one Major with a minimum of 30 upper-level credits, or two Minors with a minimum of 18 upper-level credits from each discipline. Departments may require additional upper-level credits for some Majors. Students must satisfy all of the requirements for their Major or Minors as listed in the description for each discipline. Note: When selecting electives to meet departmental requirements for Majors and Minors, please see descriptions for each department at www.viu.ca/programs. Senior Project A senior project is optional for certain Majors; students are encouraged to plan their senior project during third year and to schedule its completion during fourth year. Each senior project will have a designated project supervisor, who will assist the student to identify the resources required to complete the project successfully. Residency Requirement A minimum of 60 credits must be taken at Vancouver Island University and, of these, 42 credits must be at the upperlevel. In exceptional cases, for partnership programs (e.g., Liberal Studies offered at North Island College), with written permission of the relevant Dean, the minimum of 60 credits may be reduced by up to 18 credits. Majors and Minors New Majors and Minors are being developed. Please visit www.viu.ca/programs for updated information and complete program outlines. Anthropology Major and Minor Anthropologists are concerned with understanding the structure and functioning of social groups, the evolutionary biology of our species and the history of cultures around the world. Our program encourages the application of anthropological theory, knowledge and methods in areas such as race relations, cultural sensitivity training, archaeology, resource management, human rights facilitation, as well as the interaction of culture and the environment. Linguistic anthropologists study language and its role in cultural transmission. Biology Minor The program is designed for students who have an interest in life sciences, but have additional academic and career aspirations in areas other than biology. The program is ideal for students wishing to fulfill their BA requirements by completing two Minors. The program integrates well with a Minor in Anthropology, Geography, Psychology, Business, Creative Writing, History,
or Liberal Studies. The program will also interest students proceeding towards a career in Primary and Secondary Education, with plans for teaching a science curriculum. Business Minor Business plays a major role in the structure and functioning of contemporary society. Rapid changes in technology, environmental pressures on natural resources, structural shifts in the economy, changes in consumer preferences, global competition, and employment dislocation in many industries all necessitate a better understanding of the role and nature of business in today s society. The program contains a liberal arts component to improve students understanding of the intellectual and applied linkages between Social Sciences, Humanities and Business. Chemistry Minor Designed to be taken as part of a Double Minor or as a Major and Minor combination, the program introduces students to the traditional sub-disciplines of Chemistry, with a particular emphasis on analytical and environmental chemistry. The course selection is designed to maintain broad appeal and relevance to a variety of career objectives, including teaching, environmental consulting, and academic research. The curriculum has been designed to provide students with the knowledge that will enable them to pursue careers and further academic opportunities in environmental science, and to teach chemistry at the secondary school level. Computing Science Minor The program is composed of courses drawn from the systems and business application domains. It is designed to train students in applied computing and educate them in the social, ethical and legal implications of computing. Graduates of the program may work in fields where a well grounded knowledge in computing is necessary or advantageous. Examples include opportunities is many aspects of business, mathematics and statistics, graphic arts, music production, the video gaming industry, teaching and education, et cetera. Creative Writing Major and Minor The Creative Writing & Journalism department offers introductory, intermediate and advanced-level courses in book publishing, dramatic writing (including writing for the stage and scriptwriting for radio, television and film), fiction, journalism, and poetry. Students have the opportunity to combine applied and creative writing skills with a background in all aspects of print and electronic publishing including editing, distribution, promotion, and production of print materials.
Criminology Major Criminology is an interdisciplinary science that focuses on law and its interpretation by the courts, patterns in crime, the explanation of deviant and criminal behaviour, and society s reaction to lawbreaking. The program introduces students to criminal law, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and case-law decisions made by the courts. The program also addresses the trends and correlates of crime, including the influences of age, ethnicity, gender, and social class. The aim is to provide students with conceptual, critical and applied skills to work in fields where a legal/justice focus is beneficial. Earth Science Minor The program is designed to provide foundational knowledge about the Earth s materials, processes, resources, and history. Earth Science is a multidisciplinary field in which the principles of chemistry, physics and mathematics are applied to understand how the Earth works and to solve the challenges facing us regarding energy and resource availability and environmental security. The Minor in Earth Science is designed to be taken as part of a Double Minor or as a Major and Minor combination for a Bachelor of Arts degree. The program provides a solid foundation in the physical sciences and the flexibility to create individualized programs of study. Economics Major and Minor Economics has been defined as the study of the way in which human beings, separately and collectively, satisfy their limitless wants with limited resources. Its methods of analysis straddle Arts and Science, theory and policy, and provide a fascinating mechanism for interpreting human behaviour. While theoretical models provide the basis for the study of economics, the program focuses on the application of theory to current policy issues within domestic and international environments. Upon completion, students will possess a sound base of knowledge and skills essential to the understanding of the changes occurring in Canadian and world economies. English Major and Minor A Major in English is excellent preparation for a number of professional schools (e.g. law, secondary school teaching, library science), as well as for graduate studies in the discipline. Moreover, a degree in English gives students oral and written communication skills, critical thinking/problem-solving skills, research skills, organizational skills, teamwork and the development of interpersonal skills. In addition to skills, the impetus behind the BA emphasizes learning, appreciation, critical thinking, evaluation, and a sense of cultural history. There are many opportunities for students with English degrees in the fields
of communications, business, service professions and public relations. First Nations Studies Major and Minor The Major and Minor in First Nations Studies are products of a collaboration between Vancouver Island University and the First Nations of Vancouver Island and Coastal British Columbia. Their purpose is to provide comprehensive, high-quality education respectful of the cultures of Aboriginal peoples, while meeting their diverse needs. Geography Major and Minor Geography is the study of earth spaces and places. Geographers are concerned with the distribution and patterning of physical and human phenomena in earth space including the nature and magnitude of human impact on natural environments, protecting sustainable environments and managing the earth s valued resources. The geographic concepts of place and landscape provide a framework for understanding the role of culture in the evolution and development of urban and rural landscapes. Global Studies Major and Minor The program examines the causes and effects of, and responses to, globalization from a multidisciplinary perspective, drawing on insights from the academic disciplines of anthropology, economics, geography, political science, and sociology. Course selection creates an inclusive learning and social environment that provides, by its nature, an opportunity for students from diverse backgrounds to learn from each other. Global Studies provides excellent preparation for further study or careers in fields such as law, journalism, international business and marketing, international economic and social development, and areas of human rights and social justice. Graphic Design Major The program is intended for students who wish to pursue a professional career in the creative discipline of digital and print Graphic Design. Graphic designers work in new media and web design, packaging, illustration, animation, production and prepress, advertising, marketing communications design, art and creative direction, corporate identity, broadcast design, corporate communications, information design, editorial design, education, environmental and exhibit design, signage, and related occupations. This degree program is hands-on and rich in applied elements and simulations of real employment-type learning to prepare students for the evolving requirements of the Graphic Design and Digital Visual Communication Industry. History Major and Minor History is the study of evidence of past ideas, objects, and actions. In an effort to make sense of such a massive array of material,
historians try to understand the past with the aid of chronologies and themes. New evidence and new interests force us to ask new questions about the past. History, therefore, is a living subject one that is constantly being redefined and reassessed. The discipline of History includes topics relating to war and politics, gender and aboriginal issues; environmental concerns; family and childhood constructs; and public (applied) history policies. The program focus is on North America and Europe in the nineteenth and twentieth century. Languages and Culture (Romance Languages) Minor The program is designed to serve a variety of students whose overall program or career plans require or benefit from a strong grounding in another language or culture: not only B.Ed students, but also History, Anthropology, Global Studies, Liberal Studies, Business, Recreation and Tourism, etc. The program s strong interdisciplinary framework allows students to not only work in both French and Spanish, but also to include work from other departments. There is a wide variety of employment areas such as primary and secondary education, research, business, tourism, fisheries, forestry and other federal government services. Liberal Studies Major and Minor Liberal Studies offers a significant alternative to traditional degrees in a single discipline. It draws its rich content from the humanities, arts and sciences, and treats it in a way which brings out the connections between different disciplines. Courses are team taught by professors from a wide range of academic backgrounds, who form with students a community intent on maximizing the learning of all. In participatory seminars students develop skills in communication and critical thinking so prized in graduate school and in the professions of tomorrow. Many possibilities for graduate study will also be open to those who combine a major in Liberal Studies with one in a specialized discipline. Mathematics Minor The Mathematics Department offers a wide variety of mathematics and statistics courses. The program is designed to be taken as part of a Double Minor or a Major/Minor combination for a Bachelor of Arts degree. The curriculum provides the knowledge and experience needed to enter the teaching profession or pursue advanced study. Vancouver Island University also offers a Bachelor of Science, Minor in Mathematics. Media Studies Minor Media Studies is multi-disciplinary in nature, with a particular focus on the impact of media on culture and content production. The program explores the convergence of communication, culture, and technology. Courses are designed to encourage
students to develop their communication skills written, oral, visual, multimedia and increase their awareness of the ways various media shape culture through critical thinking, collaboration, and research. The curriculum prepares students for a variety of careers: from writers and artists, to teachers, public service workers and entrepreneurs. Philosophy Major and Minor Philosophy is the critical and systematic study of the fundamental assumptions at play in the entire range of human activity. It concerns itself with explorations into the nature of reality, human knowledge, moral and scientific reasoning, art and society. The study of Philosophy fosters the ability to think critically and innovatively, to communicate in a logical manner, to interpret and evaluate core concepts and theories in a number of disciplines and to articulate well-reasoned arguments. These competencies are particularly useful in such professions as law, medicine, business and public administration. Physical Education Major and Minor The Sport, Health, and Physical Education program provides students with the knowledge and experience to pursue careers in physical education, fitness/wellness management, movement science, outdoor leadership, physical therapy, coaching, athlete development, and sports management. Students will explore the nature of human movement and learn essential skills to communicate, administrate, and lead groups in physical activity settings in order to promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles. In addition, students will gain an appreciation of the disciplinary knowledge and its application to various physical activity-related professions. Political Science Minor Political science helps students meet the challenges of evolving civic and political opportunities, by providing them the intellectual tools needed to understand and analyze real world problems, conduct research, and be more informed participants in public affairs. As well as preparation for political science graduate programs, courses in this discipline encompassing provincial, national, comparative and international politics as well as political thought, law and politics and public policy are also useful for students who wish to pursue careers in business, public service, education, law or communications. Psychology Major and Minor The program allows students to become familiar with current work in six main areas of psychology in order to understand the mechanisms believed to underlie thought and behaviour. Courses also provide training in a number of skills related to social research, statistical analysis, and interpersonal relations. While the
Major does not prepare graduates to practice as psychologists (this requires a Ph.D. and registration with the provincial regulatory organization), it is excellent preparation for work in many related fields, and it is the first step toward further training to obtain professional qualifications. Sociology Major and Minor Sociologists seek to understand human behaviour and attitudes by examining how these are shaped by history, culture and a society s political and economic arrangements. Of central concern to sociology is the study of social inequality at the local, national and global levels. Sociological research spans a very wide range of subject areas including race, family, gender, aging, social movements, health, religion, population, science and technology, community development and the natural environment. The program provides students with a solid grounding in research methods, sociological theory and the core areas of sociological inquiry. Theatre Minor The program is intended for students who wish to study theatre as part of a BA degree to complement several other disciplines including creative writing, playwriting, digital media, media studies or as electives for education students. Strategies learned in these courses will be useful in many different disciplines and situations as the courses explore methods for the presentation of ideas and concepts to a live audience. These techniques apply to teaching, meetings, group work, collaborations, and presentations. Visual Art Minor This program is intended for students who wish to pursue studies in Fine Arts with an integrated, mixed media approach. The emphasis on multimedia with the integration of contemporary cultural studies makes this program distinct from the more individual media studied in a Bachelor of Fine Arts program. The program may be combined with another area of study and is relevant to Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Arts, and Bachelor of Education students. A multi-dimensional focus applies equally well to contemporary art-making and to the variety of approaches necessary in a school classroom. Women s Studies Major and Minor Women s Studies at Vancouver Island University explores the history, thought and experiences of women from a range of viewpoints using a multi-disciplinary approach. It encourages students to look critically at cultural productions, institutions, ideologies, sexuality and language as ways of examining the historical and contemporary status of women. Gender,
specificities of race, class, sexual orientation, age and disability/ ability will be addressed as key elements in developing sound critical theories. Particular attention is paid to the history and experiences of First Nations women. The program is grounded in feminist theory and teaching/learning styles, and recognizes the value of a participatory classroom where diverse life experiences are included and recognized. The Regional University Advantage Students who complete degree programs at Vancouver Island University have many advantages: students have the convenience of getting a university education closer to home; class sizes are, on average, one quarter the size of university classes; instructors are accessible; and tuition fees are affordable. All classes are taught by fully qualified instructors, who are dedicated to teaching and able to pay more individual attention to students. Start Date and Application Deadline Although most programs start in September, some degree programs offer the option to begin in January or May. Applications are accepted anytime between November 15 and March 31, unless otherwise indicated in the online program outline or the Program Availability List, visit www.viu.ca/pal. Late applications are often accepted and you are encouraged to contact us if you require assistance. Financial Assistance Financial assistance is available to students demonstrating financial need. Information on sources of financial aid (loans, grants, scholarships, awards, tuition bursaries and general bursaries) is available at the Financial Aid & Awards office, Building 200 Nanaimo campus, or call (250) 740-6423. Applications should be made eight to ten weeks prior to the start of your program. For more information, please visit www.viu.ca/financialaid. Further Information The Vancouver Island University Calendar is available online. Visit our website at www.viu.ca/programs. Students planning a career or long-term academic program are urged to discuss their goals with an Educational Advisor before registering (250) 740-6410.
How to Apply Students can apply online at www.pas.bc.ca or obtain an Application for Admission form, which is available from regional secondary schools, or from Vancouver Island University Registration Centres at the Nanaimo, Duncan, Powell River or Parksville Qualicum campuses. When the Registration Centre confirms that you have been admitted, you will be advised of when and how to register and pay for your courses. About Vancouver Island University Vancouver Island University is a comprehensive postsecondary institution located on beautiful Vancouver Island, in British Columbia. Our main campus is located in Nanaimo, and we have regional campuses in Duncan and Powell River, and a campus centre in Parksville. More than 14,000 full-time and part-time students are enrolled in academic, applied, career/ technical, vocational, trades, and developmental programs leading to certificates, diplomas and degrees. Vancouver Island University 900 Fifth Street Nanaimo, BC V9R 5S5 Switchboard: (250) 753-3245 Toll-free: 1-888-920-2221 Advising: (250) 740-6410 Financial Aid & Awards: (250) 740-6423 Registration Tel: (250) 740-6400 Fax: (250) 740-6479 www.viu.ca The information contained in this guide is accurate at the time of printing. Vancouver Island University reserves the right to make such changes as necessary, including cancellation and adjustment of courses. Produced by Communications and Public Relations November 2008 Bachelor of Arts.indd