Yes. International students are welcome and encouraged to apply.
The Governance and Civil Studies Diploma prepares students to understand and engage with systems of governance, politics, and civil society.
Through an interdisciplinary approach that draws on political science, sociology, history, English, and philosophy, students explore how societies are shaped and governed, with a focus on Canada and Indigenous perspectives.
Students develop strong skills in communication, critical thinking, and civic engagement, preparing them for careers in public service, advocacy, community organizations, and further study.
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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POLSC 101 : Introduction to Politics and Government
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Core Elective
- Core Elective or Open Elective
-
Open Elective
Year 1
Term 2
-
ENGL 125: Indigenous Literatures
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PHIL 125: Practical Logic
-
Core Elective
-
Core Elective
-
Open Elective
Year 1
Term 3 (Optional)
- GOVN 100: Work-Integrated Learning (optional)
Year 2
Term 1
- PHIL 101: Introduction to Philosophy: Values and Society
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SOCY 100: Introductory Sociology*
-
Core Elective
-
Core Elective
-
Open Elective
Year 2
Term 2
- ANTHR 150: Race and Racism in the Modern World
-
Core Elective
-
Core Elective or Open Elective
-
Open Elective
-
Open Elective
Elective Options
- Required Courses (as listed in the program of study)
Students must complete a minimum of 7 required courses: ANTHR 150, ENGL 104, ENGL 125, PHIL 101, PHIL 125, POLSC 101, and SOCY 100*.
*It is recommended that students take SOCY 100 in year 1.
- Elective Requirements
Students must complete a minimum of 7 core and 6 open electives. Courses selected from the core elective list may also be applied toward the open elective requirement.
- Core Electives
ENGL 221, ENGL 223, HIST 260, HIST 261, MEDIA 210, PHIL 217, PHIL 270, PHIL 386, POLSC 201, POLSC 211, POLSC 221, SOCY 260
- Open Electives
Any University Transfer course
Admission Requirements
High School Admission
Applicants must have credit in:
-
English 30-1 with a minimum grade of 50%, and
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One of the following social studies courses:
- Social Studies 30-1 with a minimum grade of 50%, or
- Social Studies 30-2 with a minimum grade of 75%
Mature Students
Applicants who are 21 years of age or older must present the same Grade 12 level courses, or equivalent, that are required for regular admission.
English Language Proficiency
If English is not your first language, you must meet one of the following:
-
TOEFL iBT: minimum score of 86 with no score below 21
-
IELTS: minimum score of 6.5 with no score below 5.0
-
CAEL: minimum score of 70
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MELAB: minimum score of 85
See the Credit Calendar for additional options.
Tuition and Fees
Duration: 2 years
Eligible for Domestic and International Students
| Tuition & Fees (2025–26) | ||
| Term | Domestic Students | International Students |
| Fall | $3,102.00 | $8,346.00 |
| Winter | $3,102.00 | $8,346.00 |
| Annual Total | $6,204.00 | $16,692.00 |
Please note
- These estimates are based on 100% enrolment for all semesters and do not include mandatory laboratory fees. Laboratory fees can range from $35-$135 for 2025-2026.
- *Students will be charged a medical/dental benefit fee unless they opt out by demonstrating alternative coverage - deadlines can be found at StudentCare website.
** Tuition is due 10 business days before the start of each semester.
For more information view the Keyano College Credit Calendar.
Refunds, Withdrawals, and Deposits
For information about withdrawals, tuition refunds, program cancellations, and deposit policies, please refer to the Refund Policy page.
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