Bachelor of Science (4 years—120 credits)

Athabasca University's Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree allows students to take the general program or select a major in Human Science, Computing and Information Systems, or Applied Mathematics. A selection of minors is also offered for students to enhance their knowledge on a specific area of study. Given the importance of science and technology, this degree will prepare student to excel in the science-based world of today and meet the increasing technological demands of the future.

Graduate of the BSc program will have gained the technical, analytical, and critical thinking skills to be able to further their education. The four-year BSc is transferable towards medicine, dentistry, and veterinary programs at other Canadian and international institutions. Student intending to go onto graduate studies should contact the institution they would like to attend to ensure all entrance requirements are met.

The Faculty of Science and Technology also offers a BSc Major in Architecture program, a way to study architecture as general interest or in preparation for a Masters of Architecture program, (and licensure as an architect).

Second Undergraduate Degree

Students who hold a recognized first degree and who wish to obtain an AU undergraduate degree in a different subject area, will be enrolled under the second undergraduate degree regulations. These students may transfer in up to 50 per cent (60 credits) into the four-year degree program, based on course work in the first degree that is applicable. Preparatory (100 level) credits cannot be used to fulfill the requirements of a second undergraduate degree.

Majors and Minors

While students may decide to graduate with a BSc in general science (without a specific area of focus), they may have the option of selecting a major, or a major and a minor, at the time of enrolment in the BSc program. BSc major are available in:

• Applied Mathematics
• Computing and Information Systems
• Human Science

Students may also select from the following minors:

• Applied Mathematics
• Computing
• Information Systems
• Human Science
• Biology
• Geoscience
• Physical Sciences
• Learning Technology
• Architecture
• Game Programming
• Game Design and Development
• Web Development
• Information Systems Management
• Psychology
• Finance Management
• Business Administration

It is highly recommended that students consult an AU program advisor before changing majors or minors.

Double Majors

For student in the BSc program wishing to combine two majors, all requirements of both majors must be fulfilled. The choice of major may restrict course selection or require the completion of more than 120 credits. Those considering a double major should consult an AU program advisor for assistance.

Program Plans

Online program plans assist students in selecting the courses needed to fulfill their program requirements. Counselling Services offers an assessment website, Mapping Your Future. AU has also developed program learning outcomes that describe the career options that may be available to you upon graduating.

English Writing Skills Requirement

Students are strongly encouraged to register in ENGL 255 early in their program. Students will be exempted* from the English Writing Skills Requirement (ENGL 255) who have met one of the following criteria:

• have a grade of B- (70 per cent) or better in an Athabasca University English course above the preparatory (100) level;
  
  or
• received credit for an English course in which a grade of B- or better was achieved.

*Note: the exemption must be replaced with a 3-credit course in any discipline at the junior/senior (200 to 400) level.

Additional Program Regulations

1. Athabasca University may grant transfer credit for individual Computer Science courses that were completed more than five years ago and/or Science courses that are over 10 years old if proof of currency in the field is provided in the form of a current resumé and letter(s) of employment. Other evidence may be accepted if the letter and the resumé cannot be supplied. Visit the Transfer Credit Services section of the Calendar for more information regarding transfer credit towards the BSc program.
2. Students holding a computing-related diploma from an approved college or technical institute that is more than five years old may be admitted to the BSc PD program if a current resumé and letter from their supervisor/employer provide evidence of currency in the field since the diploma was awarded.
3. Students holding a science-related diploma from an approved college or technical institute that is more than 10 years old may be admitted to the BSc PD program if a current resumé and letter from their supervisor/employer provide evidence of currency in the field since the diploma was awarded.
4. An individual course can only be used to fulfill one requirement in the program. For example, no course can be used to complete the specific requirements of both the major and the minor. Also, a course that fulfills the BSc program general requirements cannot be used to satisfy the specific requirements of either the major or the minor.