Associate of Arts Degree

Prince Rupert, Smithers, Terrace, in addition to online, video conference and teleconference options. Most classes start in September and January of each year. Some University Credit (UC) courses are available in condensed and/or field formats in the spring/summer semester. Some UC courses may be available at other NWCC campuses.

Associate of Arts Degree - Overview

The Associate of Arts Degree is a provincial credential designed to prepare students for careers following graduation or for transfer into a Bachelor’s Degree program. The Associate Degree curriculum comprises two years of university level study in a variety of academic areas. Students complete a broad range of courses, balanced with in-depth study in specific disciplines. They can earn the first two years of a four-year Bachelor Degree and then transfer* directly into the third year of a degree program at BC universities.

An Associate of Arts Degree is a key pathway to Social Services and Humanities Degrees such as English, History, Psychology and Anthropology. It is also a recognized and credible academic achievement that can be used to increase employability.

Obtaining an Associate Degree from NWCC reduces the total cost of the four-year bachelor’s degree and provides a strong academic foundation from which to transition into a university setting

*Students who plan to transfer credit to another NWCC program or postsecondary institution should first consult with the institution to determine admission requirements and appropriate university credit electives. For more information about course transferability visit www.bctransferguide.ca

Associate of Arts Degree

General Requirements

To obtain an Associate of Arts Degree, a student must complete a minimum of 60 credits of first or second year courses. These must include a minimum of 18 credits in Arts at the second-year level taken in two or more subject areas.

Specific Requirements:

A. 6 credits in first-year English; and
B. 9 credits in Science which shall include at least:

3 credits in Mathematics, or Computing Science or Statistics (Statistics courses taught in subject areas such as Business, Commerce, Economics, Psychology, etc. may also be used to meet this requirement);

3 credits in a laboratory science, and

C. 36 credits in Arts which shall include:

6 credits in the Social Sciences;
6 credits in Humanities (including the Creative and Performing Arts) other than English;
24 additional credits in Arts, and

D. 9 credits in Arts, Science, or other areas.