Regulations effective January 1, 2020.
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).
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.
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:
Students may also select from the following minors:
It is highly recommended that students consult an AU program advisor before changing majors or minors.
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.
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.
Students complete the program regulations in effect at the time of their enrolment.
Total credits in the program | 120 | |
Minimum Credits Required | ||
---|---|---|
Senior (300 or 400) level | 72 | |
Science credits | 72 | |
In the major (if selected) | 45 | |
In the major through Athabasca University | 15 | |
In the minor (if selected) | 24 | |
In the minor through Athabasca University | 9 | |
Senior Science credits (300 and 400 level) | 45 | |
Senior Science credits at 400 level | 15 | |
Social Science credits | 6 | |
Residency requirement. A minimum of 30 credits must be obtained through Athabasca University | 30 | |
Graduation with Distinction or Great Distinction. At least 24 credits must be obtained through Athabasca University in order to be considered. | 24 | |
Maximum Credits Allowed | ||
In any one Science discipline | 72 | |
Senior project credits (495/496) | 12 | |
At the preparatory (100) level | 6 | |
Maximum Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) credits | 30 |
Core Course Requirements | ||
---|---|---|
MATH 215 | Introduction
to Statistics or |
(3) |
MATH 216 | Computer-oriented
Approach to Statistics |
|
MATH 265* |
*(When selecting the CIS major or a computing-related minor, MATH 265 may be replaced with MATH 270.) |
(3) |
COMP 200* | Introduction to Computing and Information Systems * (COMP 200 is required for students selecting the CIS major or a computing-related minor.) |
(3) |
COMP 210 | Introduction to Information Systems and Computer Applications | |
SCIE 326 | Scientific Reasoning | (3) |
SCIE 480 |
or |
(3) |
COMP 494* |
*COMP 494 is required for students in the CIS major. |
|
PHIL 333 |
or |
(3) |
PHIL 371 | Ethics, Science, Technology, and the Environment | |
ENGL 255 | Introductory Composition (see below) | (3) |
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:
*Note: the exemption must be replaced with a 3-credit course in any discipline at the junior/senior (200 to 400) level.
Information effective January 1, 2020 to August 31, 2020.
Updated May 08 2020 by laurab
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