General Arts Certificate 

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Credential

Diploma

Length

2 years (4 terms)

Delivery

In-person

Work Integrated Learning

Optional placement

International Student

Accepted | Not PGWP Eligible

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.

Upcoming Intakes

Intakes Domestic Students International Students
Fall 2026 Open Open
Winter 2027 Open Open

i Intake availability is subject to change. Apply early to secure your spot.

What You'll Learn As A General Arts Major

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Humanities & Critical Thinking

Explore subjects such as English, philosophy, and art history while developing critical thinking and analytical skills.

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Social Sciences & Human Behaviour

Study topics in psychology, sociology, history, and political science to better understand people, societies, and institutions.

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Communication & Academic Writing

Strengthen your reading, writing, research, and communication skills through university-level coursework.

Career Opportunities

The General Arts Certificate provides a foundation for further education and careers that value strong communication, research, and critical thinking skills. Graduates may pursue opportunities in a variety of fields or continue their studies in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. Possible career paths include:

Administrative Assistant Community Services Worker Research Assistant Communications Assistant Educational Assistant

Many students use the certificate as a pathway to further studies in areas such as Psychology, Sociology, History, Political Science, English, and other arts-related disciplines.

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Program Details

High School Diploma (or equivalent):

You must have a high school diploma (or equivalent) with minimum average of 60% with no mark below 50% in:

  • English 30-1
  • Two of Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Physics 30, Mathematics 31
  • Four subjects from Group A, B or C (Only one Group B subject may be presented for admission)

Mature Students (21+):

Applicants 21 years or older can be admitted by completing the following courses with a minimum average of 60%, with no mark below 50%:

English Language Proficiency (if applicable):

  • TOEFL iBT: minimum score of 86 with no score below 21
  • IELTS Academic: minimum score of 6.5 with no score below 5.0
  • CAEL: minimum score of 70
  • MELAB: minimum score of 85
  • Duolingo: minimum score of 115
  • PTE (Academic): minimum score of 58
Required Credits Course List
Min. 6 credits
Fine Arts & Humanities
  • English* (ENGL 103, ENGL 104, ENGL 125, ENGL 221, ENGL 289) 
  • Philosophy  (PHIL 101, PHIL 102, PHIL 125, PHIL 217, PHIL 230, PHIL 250)
  • Art History (ARTH 101, ARTH 102)
Min. 6 credits
Social Science
  • Sociology (SOCY 100, SOCY 224, SOCY 225, SOCY 260, SOCY 271, SOCY 301, SOCY 304)
  • Psychology (PSYCH 103, PSYCH 104, PSYCH 105, PSYCH 223, PSYCH 239, PSYCH 241, PSYCH 282)
  • History (HIST 260, HIST 261)
  • Political Science (POLSC 101, POLSC 211)
Min. 6 credits
English

English* (ENGL 103, ENGL 104, ENGL 125, ENGL 221, ENGL 289)
Min. 12 credits
Elective		 Taken either from the Fine Arts and Humanities, Social Science, or the Science course lists
Optional WIL 100 or GOVN 100 - Work Integrated Learning

Please Note:

Keyano College reserves the right to modify the syllabus, curriculum, or schedule of any course/program, or to cancel a course/program entirely, at any time and for any reason. Such changes may be necessary due to unforeseen circumstances, regulatory requirements, or to ensure the highest quality of education.

Students will be notified of any significant changes as soon as possible. Keyano College is not responsible for any inconvenience or disruption caused by these changes. It is the responsibility of the students to stay informed about any updates or modifications to their courses.

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.

Students have the option to complete WIL 100 or GOVN 100, a 3-credit Work Integrated Learning course in the Spring term. Through this placement, students can gain practical experience in a workplace setting while building skills and connections relevant to their future studies and careers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The certificate fulfills junior-level course requirements for Bachelor of Arts programs at universities across Alberta.

Yes. An optional work-integrated learning course is available to help students gain experience in a relevant field.

Absolutely. The certificate offers flexible scheduling and can be completed over a longer period part-time.

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Gain skills in software, hardware, and networking with Keyano College’s Computer Systems Technology Certificate Program. Prepare for IT careers in just one year.

General Arts Certificate

Explore your academic interests with a 1-year General Arts Certificate. Build core skills and prepare for university transfer or entry-level careers.

Open Studies

Take individual post-secondary courses without committing to a program. Open Studies at Keyano College lets you explore interests or earn credit toward future goals.

University Transfer Programs

Start your degree at Keyano with up to 2 years of university-transfer courses in Arts, Science, or Business before moving on to complete your program.

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Ready To Apply?

Start your application and take the next step toward your program

Have questions about applying? Contact admissions@keyano.ca or 780-791-4801.

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