Open Studies
An Open Studies option is available for learners who wish to take post-secondary level credit courses at NorQuest, but are not applying to a specific certificate or diploma program. There is no application fee (unless you apply via ApplyAlberta), and there are no admission requirements to submit.
Open Studies may be for you if you want to:
- take post-secondary level credit courses at NorQuest to get a head start on our certificate or diploma programs
- study at NorQuest, but aren't sure which program to take, and want to see what interests you
- gain university transfer credit at another post-secondary institution
- take courses as a visiting student enrolled at another post-secondary institution to fit your schedule and/or the course you want isn't offered by your home institution
- take courses for general interest or personal or professional development and are not interested in applying to a program or obtaining any kind of credential from NorQuest right now.
Admission Criteria
There is no admission process for Open Studies, nor is an application fee assessed. Open Studies students are responsible for meeting all prerequisites and co-requisites for individual courses, as well as having an appropriate level of English language proficiency (ELP). Proof of such to NorQuest College is not required; the success and achievement of prerequisites and co-requisites and/or ELP are the responsibility of the student registering in an Open Studies course.
General Open Studies Requirements
- Students may take a maximum of 30 credits in Open Studies before they are required to submit an application for admission to a desired NorQuest program.
How to Apply for Open Studies Courses
To register in Open Studies courses, complete the first page of the NorQuest College Application for Admission (227K pdf). There is no $50 application fee for students taking Open Studies courses only. Please note that applications made through Apply Alberta will incur the $50 fee. Full payment of tuition and fees is due upon registration.
| Term | Open Studies Registration Date |
|---|---|
| Fall 2013 | August 1, 2013 |
| Winter 2014 | December 1, 2013 |
| Spring 2014 | April 1, 2014 |
- Transfer credit is not assessed while a learner is enrolled in open studies; however, if a student subsequently applies and is accepted to a NorQuest certificate or diploma program, transfer credit will be assessed.
- Open studies students may audit courses that are eligible for audit; permission from the Program Chair and/or course instructor is required. All regular audit procedures and financial processes will be followed.
Course Listings
University Transfer Courses
| Course Code | Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ENGL1011 | Critical Reading and Writing: Prose The literary content of English 1011 will vary from section to section, but students should expect to encounter works in three main genres: novels, essays, and short stories. All sections will include two novels: one from the eighteenth century and one from the nineteenth or twentieth century. Works will be representative of various historical periods and cultural contexts and will attempt to represent both genders equally.
Transfer: UC
| 3 |
| ENGL1012 | Critical Reading and Writing: Poetry and Drama The literary content of English 1012 will vary from section to section, but students should expect to encounter works from three central genres: novels, drama, and poetry. All sections will include both one novel and one of Shakespeare’s plays or one contemporary and one Shakespearian play. Excerpts from plays from other historical periods, including contemporary plays and those originating in various cultural contexts, are also covered. Poetry will include, but is not restricted to, poems from the Romantic, Victorian, Pre-Raphaelite, Modern, and contemporary eras.
Transfer: UC
| 3 |
| ENGL2510 | Scientific and Technical Writing This technical writing course prepares students with the skills required for writing in a professional setting. Students will learn to produce documents reflecting different types of technical communication such as technical descriptions, proposals, reports, web pages, and instructional manuals. Students will also learn how to organize information effectively, write in a clear, concise style, rigorously edit their writing, and format and cite sources using APA style. Effective document design and use of graphic elements are also examined. Students will be required to deliver oral presentations.
| 3 |
| ENGL2550 | Introduction to Composition The course has a strong focus on essay composition and analysis.The assignments are designed to encourage critical and analytical reading, thinking, and writing. This course also introduces and demonstrates the APA method of citation.
| 3 |
| HEED1000 | Health Education: Individual Health and Wellness Gain an overview of the physical, social, psychological, environmental, and spiritual aspects of personal health and wellness within the context of the community, the Canadian health-care system, and the global environment. Lifestyle choices are introduced as physical and social determinants affecting personal health and the health of others. Learn how to take responsibility for your own health and to advocate for the health of others.
| 3 |
| POLS1000 | An Introduction to Government and Politics This course introduces students to the central concepts political scientists use in attempting to explain government and politics. These include the (debated) ideas of "politics," "power," "state," "nation," "community," "regime," and "ideology." In addition, the course will introduce the basic sub-fields of political science, which are political theory, international relations, Canadian politics, and comparative politics. Finally, workings of modern western democracies will be considered.
| 3 |
| POLS1010 | Canadian Politics: Institutions and Issues This course explores the development of Canadian political institutions and political issues in Canada. The student will learn about contemporary Canadian politics by examining the evolution of federalism, the Constitution, parliament, Aboriginal and minority rights, the welfare state, multiculturalism, and similar topics. The course focuses on teaching critical thinking and writing skills by testing normative and empirical theories against Canadian historical and contemporary evidence. Transfer: UC
| 3 |
| PSYC1040 | Introduction to Psychology This course is the basic foundation course in psychology. It provides an introduction to the scientific study of behaviour and the mind. This course examines the evolution of psychology, research methods, descriptive statistics, the brain and behaviour, human lifespan development, sensation and perception, states of consciousness, conditioning and learning, and memory.
Note: Students with credit in another introductory psychology course may not be eligible for credit in this course. Please check with the Program Chair.
| 3 |
| PSYC1050 | Foundations of Human Behaviour Build on your introductory knowledge of the scientific study of behaviour and the mind. Focus on the study of cognition (thinking), intelligence and creativity, motivation and emotion, personality, health, stress, and coping, psychological disorders, therapies, and social behaviour.
Note: Students with credit in another introductory psychology course may not be eligible for credit in this course. Please check with the Program Chair.
| 3 |
| PSYC1060 | Psychology for Health-Care Professionals This course introduces the scientific study of behaviour and human development. You will learn terminology and theoretical concepts common to psychology. You will learn about the dominant theories in psychology today and the scientific process. You will also learn about human development across the lifespan; processes of the mind including consciousness, learning, and memory, cognition and intelligence, emotion and motivation; and social behaviour. The concepts of stress and health and psychological health and illness are introduced.
Note: Students with credit in another introductory psychology course may not be eligible for credit in this course. Please check with the Program Chair.
| 3 |
| PSYC2010 | Developmental Psychology: Human Life Span Study the biological, cognitive, moral, emotional, and social changes that occur in an individual during the human lifespan.
Transfer: UC
| 3 |
| PSYC2353 | Psychology of Aging Examine historical theories of aging and the diverse cultural attitudes held worldwide towards aging. Discuss individual patterns of aging physically, socially, and economically. Survey support systems and individual needs assessments with a view to noting matching and mismatching needs and supports, as well as the costs and benefits to the individual and community
| 3 |
| PSYC2450 | Abnormal Psychology- Psychiatric Conditions and Interventions Acquire an overview of the common psychiatric conditions and their symptoms, causes, and treatment modalities. The role of the mental health worker as part of the multidisciplinary team working with clients with mental health disorders is addressed. You will discuss attitudes, stigma, and the influences of culture. Class readings, web-based learning, group discussions, and assignments help illustrate this material.
| 3 |
| SOCI1000 | Introduction to the Study of Society Explore introductory sociology through the study of social relations, community, and society. Learn about the institutions of Canadian society, such as family, politics, ethnicity, education, and religion.
| 3 |
| WMST2010 | An Introduction to Women's Studies This course is a critical feminist examination of women’s embodied lives in differing social locations. The course challenges the traditional dichotomies of mind/body, culture/nature, and public/private in the treatment of such topics as the feminization of poverty; sexualities, reproduction, and family life; violence against women; women and religion; and culture and body image.
| 3 |
Aboriginal Community Support Worker
| Course Code | Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ABST1000 | Aboriginal History and Culture Examine the historical foundations of Aboriginal culture. Study the key events and legislative policies that have impacted Aboriginal communities. Learn about both Métis and First Nation history and culture.
| 3 |
| ABST1010 | Restorative Justice Explore issues of justice, punishment, healing, and rehabilitation. Study sentencing circles and the involvement of the victim, offender, and families. Learn about partnerships between communities and formal justice systems, including experiences in alternative dispute resolution. Study the theory and practice involved in alternative methods of conflict resolution and examine the recidivism rates of young offenders.
| 3 |
| COMM1024 | Observation, Documentation, and Report Writing in Human Service Careers Create accurate and appropriate documentation and records and learn to prepare reports using the documentation.
| 3 |
| ICSW1000 | Introduction to Community Support Work Examine your own beliefs and values and their relationship to human services. Learn about human services with an emphasis on helping families in need and explore how human service agencies work.
| 3 |
Administrative Professional
| Course Code | Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| BUSN1165 | Keyboarding Develop your keyboarding technique and enhance your keyboarding skills while increasing your speed and accuracy.
| 1 |
| BUSN1166 | MS Word Create a variety of professional business documents. Increase your proficiency and competency by using Word features such as character and paragraph formatting, columns, editing, tables, styles, and mail merge.
| 5 |
| BUSN1167 | MS Excel Learn to work with spreadsheets using MS Excel software. Learn how to organize, design, and edit worksheets. Create formulas and functions (statistical, financial, database, and logical) for a variety of business applications and use footers, headers, formatting, and charts. Students must have a minimum grade of C to progress to BUSN 1180.
| 3 |
| BUSN1171 | Business Office Procedures Develop skills in office procedures and organization. Study office ergonomics and customer service; learn how to process mail; carry out file-management procedures; learn to build travel itineraries, and develop skills in arranging and documenting meetings.
| 3 |
| BUSN1173 | Business Communications I Develop the written and verbal communication skills required of a business professional. In this course, you will examine business writing and develop various letters and memos in a business context. Using critical thinking, you will further practise and perfect your communication skills through critical analysis, persuasive writing, summaries, and oral presentations. APA format is taught and practised throughout the course.
| 3 |
| BUSN1178 | Databases and Presentations Learn to use the various functions of MS Access. Create queries, tables, forms, reports, and pivot tables. Learn to use MS PowerPoint, and create professional business presentations using the advanced features such as transitions, animations, and master slides. Continue to improve keyboarding speed and accuracy throughout the course.
| 3 |
| BUSN1179 | Professional Relations Develop your employability skills in this course. Learn to prepare a professional resume and handle an interview situation. Develop work-related skills in team work, conflict management, problem solving and business ethics.
| 3 |
| BUSN1180 | Advanced Excel and Outlook Foundations This advanced course builds on the MS Excel course and provides you with the opportunity to enhance your skills and productivity. You will learn to use features such as Macros, Scenarios, PivotTables, and Solver to automate tasks, improve efficiencies, and collect and analyze data. In addition to Excel, you will also learn about MS Outlook. You will learn to send and receive mail, schedule appointments, set up meetings, organize your contacts, and create tasks and notes.
| 3 |
| BUSN1186 | Accounting Basics Review and apply math concepts to solve business problems, and learn the basic skills required for financial applications, bookkeeping concepts, and procedures. Learn the basics of how financial transactions are recorded using manual and computerized bookkeeping systems.
| 3 |
| BUSN1188 | Event Management Develop skills in business event planning. Learn how to plan, design, implement and minimize the risks in planning a successful business event. Gain hands-on experience in designing and implementing an actual event.
| 3 |
| BUSN1193 | Business Communications II Build on the skills you learned in Business Communications I. Study specific forms of business and employment communications. Learn to do business research and to document your sources using APA citation style. Learn basic graphic design principles for business communications.
| 3 |
Business Administration
| Course Code | Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| BUSD1010 | Business Communications I Focus on the principles of effective business communication, both written and spoken. Specific topics include the writing process, improving grammar, writing a research paper, documenting with APA style, and preparing for public speaking. The process of revising and editing is emphasized throughout the course.
| 3 |
| BUSD1040 | Small Business Management As well as examining the formulation of business plans, you will study the function of management concerned with organization, staffing, directing, and controlling. Explore the objectives for effective management, such as profit, service, personnel, and operation. Case analysis is used to integrate course material.
| 3 |
| BUSD1050 | Business Math and Statistics Explore a range of mathematical calculations used in business. You will be introduced to simple interest, compound interest, annuities, amortization, sinking funds, statistical methods, and probability theory. Practical applications are emphasized in this course.
| 3 |
| BUSD1110 | Introduction to Accounting Gain an introduction to accounting procedures and statements and their underlying concepts and principles. Within this framework, accounting practice is integrated with the development of accounting information for effective decision making.
| 3 |
| BUSD1120 | Principles of Accounting Further examine accounting procedures and their underlying concepts and principles. Learn about additional standards and problems of valuation, income measurement, and disclosure.
| 3 |
| BUSD1150 | Introduction to Computers in Business Learn from this practical introduction to the software applications most commonly used in business. Develop a basic working knowledge of a desktop operating system and a suite of business software applications that includes file management, word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and database management.
| 3 |
| BUSD1380 | Organizational Behaviour I The organization of human productive energy is the central focus of this introductory course. Themes include balancing task, relationship requirements, and the needs of the organization with those of the individual. Specific topics include perception, personality, values, attitudes, motivation, group behaviour, and teamwork.
| 3 |
| BUSD1510 | Economics Examine the nature of economic problems and systems in relation to the following: functions of money, commercial and central banking, national income analysis, monetary and fiscal policy, and pricing under competitive and monopolistic conditions. Study selected topics in analysis and policy. Current economic problems are discussed throughout the course.
| 3 |
Hospital Unit Clerk
| Course Code | Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| BUSN1152 | Medical Terminology Study the language of medical terminology. Learn how to read and interpret commonly used medical terms, symbols, and abbreviations. Develop your understanding of rules, prefixes, suffixes, roots, combining forms, body systems, diagnostics, and drug classifications. Achieve fluency through practice sessions, quizzes, and exercises. Minimum pass mark of C+ required to progress to BUSN 1154
| 6 |
| BUSN1156 | Business Communications Skills for Unit Clerks Develop the written and verbal communication skills required of a business professional. In this course, you will examine business writing and learn how to write various letters and emails in a hospital setting. Using critical thinking, you will further practise and perfect your communication skills through critical analysis and oral presentations. APA format is taught and practised throughout the course.
| 3 |
Mental Health Rehabilitation
| Course Code | Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ANPH1000 | Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology Study the basics of normal anatomy and physiology. The structure and function of each body system is covered, and the relationship between the structure and function of each system is explored. Learn about the interactions of body systems.
| 3 |
| COMM1011 | Interpersonal Communications for Health-Care Professions Explore the fundamentals of communication and interpersonal relationships. Examine effective communication, barriers to effective communication, and specific communication strategies that can improve interactions with others. Learn theories related to communication climate, groups, teams, conflict, and conflict management.
| 3 |
| COMM2011 | Therapeutic Communication for Health-Care Professions Explore the importance of communication skills in developing caring relationships with clients and working effectively within the health-care team. Learn to vary your communication techniques and methods in different situations. Explore various concepts and principles of therapeutic communication and consider their implications for professional practice.
Transfer: AU
| 3 |
| DEMC1011 | Dementia Studies This is a creative and dynamic approach to dementia care that is suitable for caregivers, both formal and informal, in a variety of care settings. Comprehensive information about dementia from diagnosis to end stage is discussed in a practical and interactive manner.
| 3 |
| MENH1000 | Introduction to Mental Health Focus on the Alberta health-care system, the roles of the members of the mental health team, and the role of the mental health rehabilitation worker (MHRW). Learn about the clients’ rights and explore ethical dilemmas and professional boundaries in the mental health workplace as they relate to the role of the mental health rehabilitation worker.
| 3 |
| PATH1010 | Pathophysiology This course focuses on the pathological processes underlying diseases and disorders. It gives learners a foundation for understanding the phenomena that produce alterations in human physiologic function across the lifespan. The course includes common disease entities as examples of pathological processes. Each pathological process is explained as a concept and illustrated by typical diseases and disorders. Disease is discussed in terms of manifestations, etiology, and complications. Learners will gain a basic understanding of the diagnosis and management of the disease process associated with pathophysiologic dysfunction.
| 3 |
| RHAB1001 | Introduction to Rehabilitation Learn the fundamental concepts and theories specific to rehabilitation and gain an introduction to the field of rehabilitation medicine. Examine the common practices and unique roles of physical therapy, therapeutic recreation, and occupational therapy, and explore the skills, roles, and traits of the therapy assistant.
| 3 |
Pharmacy Technician
| Course Code | Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ANPH1000 | Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology Study the basics of normal anatomy and physiology. The structure and function of each body system is covered, and the relationship between the structure and function of each system is explored. Learn about the interactions of body systems.
| 3 |
| COMM1011 | Interpersonal Communications for Health-Care Professions Explore the fundamentals of communication and interpersonal relationships. Examine effective communication, barriers to effective communication, and specific communication strategies that can improve interactions with others. Learn theories related to communication climate, groups, teams, conflict, and conflict management.
| 3 |
| PATH1010 | Pathophysiology This course focuses on the pathological processes underlying diseases and disorders. It gives learners a foundation for understanding the phenomena that produce alterations in human physiologic function across the lifespan. The course includes common disease entities as examples of pathological processes. Each pathological process is explained as a concept and illustrated by typical diseases and disorders. Disease is discussed in terms of manifestations, etiology, and complications. Learners will gain a basic understanding of the diagnosis and management of the disease process associated with pathophysiologic dysfunction.
| 3 |
| PHRM1001 | Pharmaceutical Calculations Learn the application of arithmetic to pharmacy calculations. Examine units of measurement, pharmacy math, prescription pricing, calculation of medication doses, and those calculations used in the preparation of extemporaneous compounds and parenteral products.
| 3 |
| PHRM1004 | Pharmacy Customer Service Examine customer service in relation to pharmacy practice. Explore the importance of good internal and external customer service in today’s consumer-driven society. Apply the fundamentals of patient-centred care, interpersonal communication skills, and conflict resolution to the areas of therapeutic communication and customer service. A laboratory component is included in this course for students to apply their knowledge, and practise their communication and customer-service skills.
| 3 |
Physical Therapy Assistant
| Course Code | Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ANPH1000 | Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology Study the basics of normal anatomy and physiology. The structure and function of each body system is covered, and the relationship between the structure and function of each system is explored. Learn about the interactions of body systems.
| 3 |
| COMM1011 | Interpersonal Communications for Health-Care Professions Explore the fundamentals of communication and interpersonal relationships. Examine effective communication, barriers to effective communication, and specific communication strategies that can improve interactions with others. Learn theories related to communication climate, groups, teams, conflict, and conflict management.
| 3 |
| COMM2011 | Therapeutic Communication for Health-Care Professions Explore the importance of communication skills in developing caring relationships with clients and working effectively within the health-care team. Learn to vary your communication techniques and methods in different situations. Explore various concepts and principles of therapeutic communication and consider their implications for professional practice.
Transfer: AU
| 3 |
| PATH1010 | Pathophysiology This course focuses on the pathological processes underlying diseases and disorders. It gives learners a foundation for understanding the phenomena that produce alterations in human physiologic function across the lifespan. The course includes common disease entities as examples of pathological processes. Each pathological process is explained as a concept and illustrated by typical diseases and disorders. Disease is discussed in terms of manifestations, etiology, and complications. Learners will gain a basic understanding of the diagnosis and management of the disease process associated with pathophysiologic dysfunction.
| 3 |
| RHAB1001 | Introduction to Rehabilitation Learn the fundamental concepts and theories specific to rehabilitation and gain an introduction to the field of rehabilitation medicine. Examine the common practices and unique roles of physical therapy, therapeutic recreation, and occupational therapy, and explore the skills, roles, and traits of the therapy assistant.
| 3 |
Practical Nurse
| Course Code | Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ANPH1001 | Anatomy and Physiology I Study the organization of the human body and the structures and functions of the body systems that provide support and movement, coordination, and regulation. Learn how body systems work together to maintain homeostasis. Terminology used by health professionals will be introduced. In the Practical Nurse program a final mark of C- is required to progress to PATH 1000.
| 3 |
| ANPH1002 | Anatomy and Physiology II Study the organization of the human body and the structures and functions of the body systems that provide transport and protection; absorption, diffusion, and excretion; and reproduction. Learn how body systems work together to maintain homeostasis. Terminology used by health professionals, and theory and principles related to microbiology will be introduced.
Transfer: AU
| 3 |
| PATH1000 | Pathophysiology for Health-Care Professions Learn the pathological processes underlying diseases and disorders that produce alterations in human physiologic function across the lifespan. Each pathological process is explained as a concept, and examined through examples of typical diseases and disorders. Gain a basic understanding of the diagnosis and management of the disease process associated with pathophysiologic dysfunction.
| 3 |
Print Media Production
| Course Code | Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| PRTD1021 | Understanding Graphic Communications in Today's World Gain a brief history and broad overview of the graphic communications industry. Learn the many roles and processes associated with graphic communications and the steps needed to get a visual message to market. This course allows students to explore global trends and learn about the best practices that should be used when undertaking a visual communication project.
| 3 |
| PRTD1023 | Graphic Design Theory Gain an understanding of the history of typography, graphic design, and major art movements and how they impact today’s communication projects. Explore the basic principles of design and learn to critique commercial communication projects to meet business and personal needs. This class will prepare students to design creatively and with purpose.
| 3 |
| PRTD1024 | Communication Design Technologies Explore and design using Adobe Creative Suite including, Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Acrobat, and Adobe Bridge. Learn how to manage digital assets, create and assemble visual presentation working files, and create print-ready documents. This class will allow you to work on creative projects in a constructive way and teach you how to create powerful visual projects.
| 6 |
Social Work
| Course Code | Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| SOWK1010 | Introduction to Social Work Study the history of social work and its evolution as a profession as the foundation for understanding social work’s current roles and practices. Learn about social policy, political structures, social issues, and practice with diverse client groups.
| 3 |
Therapeutic Recreation
| Course Code | Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ANPH1000 | Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology Study the basics of normal anatomy and physiology. The structure and function of each body system is covered, and the relationship between the structure and function of each system is explored. Learn about the interactions of body systems.
| 3 |
| COMM1011 | Interpersonal Communications for Health-Care Professions Explore the fundamentals of communication and interpersonal relationships. Examine effective communication, barriers to effective communication, and specific communication strategies that can improve interactions with others. Learn theories related to communication climate, groups, teams, conflict, and conflict management.
| 3 |
| COMM2011 | Therapeutic Communication for Health-Care Professions Explore the importance of communication skills in developing caring relationships with clients and working effectively within the health-care team. Learn to vary your communication techniques and methods in different situations. Explore various concepts and principles of therapeutic communication and consider their implications for professional practice.
Transfer: AU
| 3 |
| DEMC1011 | Dementia Studies This is a creative and dynamic approach to dementia care that is suitable for caregivers, both formal and informal, in a variety of care settings. Comprehensive information about dementia from diagnosis to end stage is discussed in a practical and interactive manner.
| 3 |
| PATH1010 | Pathophysiology This course focuses on the pathological processes underlying diseases and disorders. It gives learners a foundation for understanding the phenomena that produce alterations in human physiologic function across the lifespan. The course includes common disease entities as examples of pathological processes. Each pathological process is explained as a concept and illustrated by typical diseases and disorders. Disease is discussed in terms of manifestations, etiology, and complications. Learners will gain a basic understanding of the diagnosis and management of the disease process associated with pathophysiologic dysfunction.
| 3 |
| RHAB1001 | Introduction to Rehabilitation Learn the fundamental concepts and theories specific to rehabilitation and gain an introduction to the field of rehabilitation medicine. Examine the common practices and unique roles of physical therapy, therapeutic recreation, and occupational therapy, and explore the skills, roles, and traits of the therapy assistant.
| 3 |
| WELL1000 | Wellness Through Leisure Further your understanding of the field of therapeutic recreation and learn about the models of care in the therapeutic recreation process that guide service delivery. Discuss the Leisure Ability Model as a framework to service, with a focus on promoting a client’s wellness through goal-oriented leisure activities.
| 3 |