Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences online diploma to degree programs
With Athabasca University’s online post diploma to degree programs, you gain the flexibility to study from anywhere, while ensuring that your prior education is fully recognized.
Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations
Take your diploma to degree journey further with Athabasca University’s Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations (Post diploma). Designed for both business and non-business diploma holders, this online degree completion program allows you to transfer previously earned credits and complete your degree faster.
Why choose the Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations program?
- Flexible admission routes: Business and non-business diploma holders can receive up to 60 transfer credits.
- Accelerated pathway: Upgrade your diploma to a degree and complete your bachelor’s faster.
- 100% online: Study anytime, anywhere—no set start dates.
- Industry recognition: Accredited with Chartered Professionals in Human Resources (CPHR) Alberta, offering exam exemptions for eligible graduates.
This diploma to degree pathway is ideal for those looking to advance in HR, labour relations, and workforce management while maintaining work-life balance. Start anytime and take the next step in your career today.
Bachelor of Professional Arts
The Bachelor of Professional Arts is designed specifically for diploma holders looking to upgrade their diploma to a degree. Unlike other programs that offer both entry-level and post diploma routes, the BPA requires a recognized 2- or 3-year diploma (or 60 credits) for admission.
Why choose the Bachelor of Professional Arts?
- Built for diploma graduates: Direct diploma to degree pathway—no first-year courses required.
- Fast-track your degree: Transfer credits let you complete your bachelor’s degree faster.
- Flexible and online: Study from anywhere while balancing work and personal commitments.
- Earn more credits: Some students may qualify for additional credits through prior learning assessment.
Bachelor of Professional Arts majors available
Communication Studies
Build expertise in media, public relations, and digital communication.
Popular diploma transfer programs:
- Library and information technician
- Broadcasting, radio, television, and journalism
- Communications and public relations
- Photography, video, graphic design, and other fine arts diplomas
Criminal Justice
Advance your career in law enforcement, corrections, or public safety.
Popular diploma transfer programs:
- Police foundations, law enforcement services, security services, and correctional services
- Community and justice services
- Criminology and investigative services
- Legal assistant
Governance, Law, and Management
Prepare for leadership roles in government and business.
Popular diploma transfer programs:
- Legal assistant, paralegal, law clerk
- Social work, community and justice services
- Police foundations, law enforcement services, security services, and correctional services
- Youth justice services
Human Services
Gain skills for social work, community services, and nonprofit management.
Popular diploma transfer programs:
- Early childhood education, child and youth care
- Developmental and disability services
- Social service worker, social work
Are you wondering about transferring into the Bachelor of Arts program?
While there are no formal block transfer agreements in our Bachelor of Arts program, we often will transfer course credits where there are equivalencies.
Updated March 06, 2026 by Digital & Web Operations (web_services@athabascau.ca)