Program overview
Achieve success as an independent learner in a variety of disciplines by learning how to think critically, write clearly, and speak persuasively with Athabasca University’s online University Diploma in Arts. This program is an intermediate credential that provides a grounding in the intellectual skills required of university studies and can be laddered into Bachelor of Arts degree.
Routes and options
Ladder to a degree
This program is an intermediate credential that provides a grounding in the intellectual skills required of university studies and can be laddered into Bachelor of Arts degree.
Completion times
Finish this program in as little as 2 years of full-time study or work at your own pace and take as long as you need. There is no time limit for completion.
Admission requirements
There are no formal admission requirements for this program. All you need is to be 16 or older. You can enrol anytime and start right away, regardless of your previous education.
Please note: If you have completed a more senior-level credential (e.g. a bachelor’s degree), you cannot apply to the University Diploma in Arts program.
How to apply
You can apply to AU online, anytime. Once you’ve completed the online application form and paid the one-time general application fee (and transfer credit evaluation fee, if applicable), you’re officially an AU student and can start registering in courses.
Make sure we get your transcripts if you want us to consider your previous post-secondary education for transfer credit.
Transfer and advanced credit
If you have previous post-secondary education that relates to this program, you may be eligible for transfer credit. This could mean fewer courses to get your AU diploma.
If you transfer credit, you must complete a minimum of 24 credits at AU.
Program requirements
To complete the program you will need to fulfil all the requirements of the diploma.
Our program plans can give you an idea of what courses you need to finish this program, and how to plan the order you’ll take them in. If you’re feeling stuck, our academic advisors can help.
Required courses
Detailed information about courses in this program can be accessed using the following link:
Tuition and fees
Once you have paid the initial application fee, tuition is pay-as-you-go for each course registration. Course fees vary depending on your location and other factors.
You can estimate your total program cost by multiplying the cost of a 3-credit course by the number of courses you need to take for the program. Remember that tuition costs may increase each year.
Program learning outcomes
As a result of completing this program, students should be able to
- Employ the skills necessary for independent learning in the humanities and social sciences.
- Interpret ideas, concepts, theories and a variety of research methods advanced in the humanities and social sciences.
- Critically evaluate the logical adequacy of arguments, propositions and theories advanced in the humanities and social sciences.
- Communicate information, concepts, arguments, and analysis clearly, cogently, and logically in written form that corresponds to the information literacy and academic integrity standards in the humanities and social sciences.
- Recognize the importance and value of social and cultural diversity in the world; and the ethical responsibility of the individual relative to other individuals, communities and institutions as reflected in the humanities and social sciences.