Yes. International students are welcome and encouraged to apply.
The Governance and Civil Studies Diploma Program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to understand and influence systems of governance, politics, civil society, and social change. This interdisciplinary program draws from political science, sociology, history, English, and philosophy to prepare graduates for impactful careers in public service, advocacy, Indigenous governance, and non-profit sectors.
Through a strong foundation in political theory, ethical reasoning, communication, and civic engagement, students explore the dynamics of leadership and social responsibility. The program places special emphasis on Indigenous political systems and histories, preparing learners to work effectively across diverse cultural and institutional landscapes.
What You’ll Learn
- Throughout this diploma, you’ll develop the ability to:
- Understand and analyze Canadian and global political systems and institutions
- Apply critical thinking and ethical reasoning to complex social and policy issues
- Examine Indigenous governance, history, and political structures in Canada
- Communicate ideas clearly and persuasively across political and cultural contexts
- Engage in civic leadership and participate meaningfully in community development
- Explore career opportunities in government, community advocacy, Indigenous leadership, policy research, and more
Learning Outcomes (Post-Grad)
Graduates of the Governance and Civil Studies Diploma will be prepared to:
✔️ Analyze governmental systems, policy, and political theory
✔️ Apply ethical reasoning to civic and social issues
✔️ Understand Indigenous governance and Canadian political history
✔️ Communicate effectively across cultural and political contexts
Career Opportunities & Pathways
Graduates of this program are prepared for roles in:
- Government administration and public policy
- Indigenous governance and consultation
- Community development and outreach
- Political advocacy or research
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Communications, journalism, and media
- Political consulting and campaign support
Graduates may also pursue further studies in Political Science, Indigenous Studies, Law, Public Administration, or related degree programs.
Program Structure
Year 1
Term 1
- ENGL 104 – Introduction to Critical Analysis
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PHIL 101 – Introduction to Philosophy: Values and Society
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POLSC 101 – Introduction to Politics and Government
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PHIL 250 – Contemporary Ethical Issues (offered in odd years)
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Elective 1
Year 1
Term 2
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ENGL 125 – Aboriginal Writing
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POLSC 211 – History of Political Theory (offered in even years)
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SOCY 100 – Introductory Sociology
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Elective 2
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Elective 3
Year 1
Term 3 (Optional)
- GOVN 100 – Work Integrated Learning Work Term (6 credits)
Year 2
Term 1
- ENGL 223 – Reading Politics: Empire and the Postcolonial
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HIST 260 – Canadian History 1500–1867
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PHIL 270 – Introduction to Political Philosophy (offered in even years)
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POLSC 201 – Introduction to Indigenous Politics
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Elective 4
Year 2
Term 2
- ENGL 221 – Reading Class and Ideology
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HIST 261 – Canadian History 1867–Present
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POLSC 221 – Canadian Government (offered in odd years)
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MEDIA 210 – Contemporary Media Culture
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Elective 5
Elective Options
Students choose from approved electives, including but not limited to:
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ENGL 206 – The Short Story
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ENGL 293 – Science Fiction
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PHIL 217 – Biology, Society and Values
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PHIL 230 – Ancient Greek Philosophy
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PHIL 265 – Philosophy of Science
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PSYCH 104 – Basic Psychological Processes
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SOCY 260 – Inequality & Social Stratification (requires SOCY 100)
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STAT 151 – Introduction to Applied Statistics I (requires Math 30-1 or 30-2)
Language Electives May Include
- FREN 111, 112, 211, 212
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CREE 100
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Other approved second-language courses (including advanced credit or transfer)
All English electives require 6 credits of junior English (ENGL 104 and ENGL 125 meet this requirement).
Admission Requirements
High School Admission
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English 30-1
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Four subjects from Group A, B, or C (only one B subject may be used)
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Minimum average of 60% with no mark below 50%
English Language Proficiency
If English is not your first language, you must meet one of the following:
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TOEFL iBT: 86 (no section below 21)
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IELTS: 6.5 (no band below 5.0)
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CAEL: 70
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MELAB: 85
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Duolingo: 115
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PTE Academic: 58
See the Credit Calendar for additional options.
Tuition and Fees
Domestic (2024–2025):
- Term 1: $2,789.92
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Term 2: $2,789.92
-
Total per Year: $5,579.84
International (2024–2025):
- Term 1: $7,042.92
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Term 2: $7,042.92
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Total per Year: $15,103.76
Optional Work Term:
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Domestic: ~$519.92
-
International: ~$949.92
Additional health & dental fees may apply unless waived.
Note: Fees are based on 100% enrolment and do not include optional work term or lab/course-specific fees.
Health & Dental: Charged unless students opt out with proof of alternate coverage
Tuition is due 10 business days before each semester start date
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this program open to international students?
Can I take this program part-time?
Yes. The diploma can be completed on a part-time basis.
Is the work-integrated learning course mandatory?
No. The GOVN 100 work term is optional and completed during the Spring term after Year 1.
Become a Leader in Civic Life and Public Service
Apply today or contact admissions for more information