Choose a start date
Arts and Sciences Diploma

Start your degree with confidence at NorQuest. With the Arts and Sciences diploma, you’ll earn recognized university transfer credits in an inclusive, supportive environment with small classes and dedicated instructors—building a strong academic foundation and a direct pathway to a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree.

What to expect from the program

The Arts and Sciences diploma provides a broad foundation across the sciences, social sciences, and humanities while giving you the flexibility to explore your interests, or if you choose, specialize in a specific area. NorQuest’s first-qualified entry and small class sizes create a supportive, barrier-free environment that fosters mentorship, collaboration, and personalized learning. You’ll also benefit from:

Expert faculty

Learn from experienced instructors with advanced degrees and active research experience. Many teach equivalent courses at partner institutions, helping maintain curriculum consistency and supporting smooth transfer pathways.

Personalized study plans

Work one-on-one with an Academic Program Advisor to choose your courses and navigate degree-transfer requirements, so you can graduate with the prerequisites you need to achieve your goals.

Course flexibility

Choose between full-time or part-time studies and enjoy an educational experience that fits your life. Some courses are offered online or in HyFlex formats.

Transfer preparation and pathways

Build the academic foundation and transferable credits you need to pursue further post-secondary studies. Benefit from established partnerships with universities and colleges that support smooth and seamless transfer opportunities.

Student support services 

NorQuest provides a range of student support services, including free tutoring, mental health and wellness resources at the Centre for Growth and Harmony, career coaching, and more. 


What you’ll learn

With the Arts and Sciences diploma, you can customize your program of study according to your interests and educational goals. You will choose from a variety of electives in the sciences, social sciences, humanities, and other subject areas.

Through the coursework, you will:

  • Develop critical thinking, reading, and writing skills
  • Analyze various forms of digital information and media to evaluate sources and content
  • Build literacy skills across arts and science disciplines
  • Develop creative, innovative, and responsive approaches to problem-solving
  • Conduct research using a variety of databases, search engines, and other knowledge-gathering methods

Your delivery option

To support your learning experience, this program is offered in the following format:

In person

Classes are held in a classroom with face-to-face instruction and regularly scheduled meeting times. 


Transfer opportunities 

Upon completion, you will graduate with an Arts and Sciences diploma and a minimum of 60 transferable credits—the equivalent of two years of full-time study recognized by post-secondary institutions across Alberta and Canada.

Established agreements with the University of Alberta and MacEwan University provide direct pathways to apply to a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science program. Students who successfully complete the Arts and Sciences diploma may be eligible to enter the third year of degree programs, including: 

  • Biological sciences 
  • Chemistry 
  • Communications 
  • Earth sciences 
  • English language and literature 
  • Mathematics 
  • Computer science 
  • Psychology 
  • Sociology 
  • And more! 

Your degree can open doors to diverse career paths, from research and education to health, technology, communications, and public service, depending on your chosen specialization.

Explore transfer pathways

 


Important information for international students

This program qualifies for a study permit, but does not qualify for a post-graduate work permit in Canada as of June 24, 2025. Learn more about obtaining your study permit and other important immigration information.


Attend an upcoming information session

Join a student recruiter and program expert to explore everything you need to know, from program structure, career pathways, transfer agreements, admission requirements, and more. Bring your questions—we’re here to help!

July 7, 2026

12:00 p.m. - 12:45 p.m.

Online

Register

Have a question about the Arts and Sciences Diploma program?