Labour Studies Major

Regulations effective September 1, 2018.

Athabasca University’s Labour Studies program is designed for students who want to know more about the position of labour and working people in society. It will be of particular interest to trade unionists at both the leadership and general membership levels. Offerings include courses in labour history, work organization, women and unions, and the theory and practice of trade unions.

Athabasca University has developed program learning outcomes that describe the career options that may be available to you upon graduating.

A maximum of 39 PLAR credits is allowed if you choose the Labour Studies major.

Did you know? Athabasca University also offers:

• Minor in Labour Studies (optional)

For specific degree requirements view each program page.

Program Requirements

Students complete the program regulations in effect at the time of their enrolment.

Requirements in addition to the general program requirements for the 4-year BA with Major:

1. 45 credits in Labour Studies major courses outlined below including a minimum of 30 senior (300 or 400) level credits (a minimum of 12, 400-level credits).
2. 12 credits in required core courses (SOCI 321 and HIST 336 are included in the 30 senior-level credits noted above).
3. Students may transfer in a maximum of 30 credits of courses applicable to the requirements of the major.

Recommendations

Students are advised to begin their studies with LBST 200 or LBST 202.

Required Core Courses (12 credits)

Electives (select 33 credits from the following)

*All courses labelled IDRL can be taken as either Applied Studies or Social Science courses, but not both. To use these courses to satisfy the Social Science area of study requirement, students must contact Transfer Credit Services and request the change upon completion of the course.

Transfer Credits for Union Education and Prior Learning

Athabasca University grants advanced credit in the Labour studies program for some union education programs. A student who has completed a Labour College of Canada Intensive Program, for example, may be eligible to receive nine credits. Students who have completed the Canadian Auto Workers Paid Educational Leave course may be eligible to receive three credits. And students who have completed the Canadian Postal Workers’ Union Education Program may be eligible to receive six credits. Credit is also granted for other union education programs and for other forms of prior learning. Contact Athabasca University for details.

Many unions, and some employers, will reimburse students for the cost of university tuition fees. Discuss this with your union representative or employer.