Build your own program | Associate of Arts Degree

	Associate degree
	International applicants welcome

This is an academic credit program offered through the Faculty of Arts, Science and Management.

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Location	Length	Delivery
Comox Valley Fall WinterSpring	2 years	In-person Full-time or part-time

Applications open.

Overview

Earn 60 transfer toward a Bachelor's Degree at most BC universities. Complete your degree in two years full-time or study part-time at your own pace. With flexible course options, you can specialize or explore different fields. An associate degree stands on its own as a valuable credential while keeping pathways open for further education. Study subjects like:

Anthropology
Criminology
English
First Nations studies
History
Languages: Chinese, French, Spanish
Philosophy
Political science
Psychology
Sociology
Women’s studies
Math and science electives

An Associate of Arts degree with a pre-Social Work focus includes 60 credits at the 100 and 200 levels. You'll study English, social sciences, humanities, and specialized courses like SSW 120: Social Welfare in Canada and SSW 122: Foundation of Social Service Practice. To meet BSW admission requirements, check your chosen university’s criteria before starting and consult an NIC advisor for a study plan.

Program Highlights:

60 credits of university transfer courses
Core subjects: English, social sciences, humanities
Pre-social work courses: SSW 120 & SSW 122
Direct pathway to third-year BSW entry
Advising support to align courses with university requirements

Apply now

Requirements and courses

Careers

An associate of Arts Degree is transferable to a host of universities in Canada. Pursuing further educational pathways allows you to choose from a wide range of careers based on subjects like teaching, communications, writing, human resources, international relations and much more.

Costs

Check the table below for estimated costs for the full program.

Tuition	$7,510
Lab	$305
Student Union	$410
Learner Resource	$350
Health and Dental	$570
Total	$9,145

*Estimates are based on a full course load per year and are subject to change. Additional fees may be applicable. Estimated books cost $200 per course.

Tuition	$29,810
Lab	$305
Student Union	$410
Learner Resource	$350
Health and Dental	$570
Student Services Fee	$1,840
Total	$33,285

*Estimates are based on a full course load per year and are subject to change. Additional fees may be applicable. Estimated books cost $200 per course.

Curious about funding?

Financial support is available. Learn more about financial aid and awards.

How to apply

Apply for this program through EducationPlannerBC. After you’ve applied, you’ll receive an email from NIC with your next steps. Be sure to add @nic.bc.ca to your safe sender list.

Get started

Questions? Connect with our Future Students team.

Apply for this program through EducationPlannerBC. After you’ve applied, you’ll receive an email from NIC with your next steps. Be sure to add @nic.bc.ca to your safe sender list.

Learn more

Questions? Get in touch with our International team.

Christy Vanden, Associate of Arts Degree alum

"The faculty literally showed us a world beyond our own, opening our eyes to a new way of thinking and seeing. I am a better person because of my experience at NIC."

Christy Vanden - NIC Associate of Arts Degree alum

Frequently asked questions

NIC’s Arts and Sciences program includes Humanities Studies, Math and Science, and Social Sciences, offering a broad range of disciplines such as English, History, Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Philosophy, First Nations studies, modern languages, Sociology and more.

Yes, NIC offers seamless transfer options to universities across BC and Canada, including guaranteed admission to UVic and VIU for eligible students. The BC Transfer Guide provides details on credit transfer and eligibility requirements.

Transfer to a bachelor’s program with advanced standing.
Qualify for entry-level jobs in fields like healthcare, IT or environmental science.
Enhance your resume with a recognized credential.

It’s a solid foundation for career or further education.

Associate Degree: A structured, subject-focused program with a diploma upon graduation.
University Studies: Flexible, multidisciplinary, with no diploma unless a specific credential is earned.

Both provide transferable credits toward a Bachelor's Degree or other undergraduate programs. Visit the BC Transfer Guide for a detailed credit transfer information.

Yes, NIC offers international field schools, such as trips to Greece and Croatia, where students can apply their learning in real-world contexts. Additionally, there are applied research opportunities in various fields.

Start by contacting an NIC educational advisor to explore programs, funding, career paths and transfer options. Review your study plan and select eligible courses for your Associate Degree. NIC offers high school upgrading for prerequisites and guidance on transferring to a four-year program.

Yes! NIC offers a range of English upgrading courses to help you meet the prerequisites for your desired program.

Still have questions?

Get in touch with our Future Students team.

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Future Students Newsletter

Associate of Arts Degree

Stay connected Get program updates and event news straight to your inbox.

Location

Length

Delivery

Overview

Requirements and courses

Careers

Costs

Curious about funding?

How to apply

Frequently asked questions

What areas of study are included in the Arts and Sciences program at NIC?

Can I transfer my credits from NIC to a university?

What can I do with an Associate Degree?

How is an Associate Degree different from University Studies?

Are there any unique opportunities for students in the Arts and Sciences program?

I'm feeling overwhelmed and unsure if I have everything needed for acceptance. Where do I start?

Can I study English at NIC even if I need to improve my skills first?

Still have questions?

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