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Associate of Arts Degree

Grad cap icon Associate degree
icon 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 Winter		 2 years In-person
Full-time or part-time

Applications for Associate of Arts Degree open. Applications for Pre-Social Work and Psychology concentrations closed.

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

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.

Curious about funding?

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

How to apply

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 NIC's Future Students team 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.
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Still have questions?

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