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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.

You also have the option to direct the focus of your studies with a specialization in New Media, Communications, and Technology

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 is eligible for a study permit. The New Media, Communications, and Technology specialization stream qualifies for a post-graduate work permit, while the general Arts and Sciences stream does not. Learn more about obtaining your study permit, and how to apply for a post-graduate work permit along with other important immigration information.


Related programs

New Media, Communications, and Technology Specialization

Take the first step towards a bachelor’s degree with NorQuest's Arts and Sciences diploma, specializing in New Media, Communications, and Technology.

Upcoming event

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Arts and Sciences Diploma

Arts and Sciences Info Session

November 12, 2025
12:00 p.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Online

Join a student recruiter and a program expert to learn everything you need to know about NorQuest’s Arts and Sciences diploma program.

Have a question about the Arts and Sciences Diploma program?