Apr 18, 2024  
University of Alberta Calendar 2022-2023 
    
University of Alberta Calendar 2022-2023 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Faculty of Arts Admission Requirements


 

Bachelor of Arts

Admission to the Faculty of Arts is competitive. The number of high school and transfer admissions or readmissions to the Faculty may be limited in any given year depending on the number of applicants and their qualifications. Some majors require higher averages and/or specific courses and additional admission criteria. Presentation of the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Applicants will be assessed on the basis of their academic records as described below.

High School Applicants

High school applicants will be considered for admission based on their admission average on five subjects noted below. See High School Applicants  for minimum grade and admission average requirements

Subject Requirements

  1. English Language Arts 30-1
  2. Four subjects from Group A, B and/or C. A maximum of one Group B may be presented for admission. In order to maximize their future program and course choices, all students are encouraged to present a broad range of subjects across Group A and C.
  3. Mathematics 30-2 may be used for admission to the Faculty of Arts, though some disciplines require Mathematics 30-1 as a prerequisite for required courses (see notes below). Only one of Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2 will be used for admission purposes.
  4. See additional requirements below for specific majors and minors.

Notes

  1. Admission to the major in Planning is competitive and Alberta residence students may be given preference. The minimum requirements are as follows:
    1. English Language Arts 30-1, Social Studies 30-1, Mathematics 30-1 or Mathematics 30-2, and two subjects from Group A, B and/or C.
    2. A maximum of one Group B may be presented for admission.
    3. A minimum competitive average of at least 75% in the above five subjects and an AGPA of 2.3 on any transferable courses.
  1. For a major in Political Science Social Studies 30-1 is recommended.
  2. For a major or minor in Psychology students should present one of Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2.
  3. For a major in Economics students must present Mathematics 30-1. Presentation of Mathematics 31 is recommended. Mathematics 30-1 does not have to be included as one of the five 30-level courses for admission, but the major requires courses for which Mathematics 30-1 is a prerequisite.
  4. For a major in Mathematics students must present both Mathematics 30-1 and Mathematics 31. For a minor in Mathematics students should present Mathematics 30-1. Mathematics 30-1 or Mathematics 31 do not have to be included in the five 30-level courses used for admission, but the discipline requires courses for which Mathematics 30-1 and Mathematics 31 are prerequisites.
  5. Students intending to transfer to the Faculty of Business must present Mathematics 30-1.
  6. The Faculty of Arts accepts proficiency in an Indigenous language recognized in Canada (e.g., Cree, Slavey, etc.) to meet a Group A admission requirement. Proficiency is measured either by a test, administered by the University if such can be arranged, or by boards of examiners appointed by the University. Candidates having passed the required test of an Indigenous language have their averages calculated on the remaining four matriculation subjects.

Transfer Applicants

Please refer to BAPostsecondary Applicants and Transfer from a Postsecondary Institutions .

Nonmatriculated Applicants

Please refer to Nonmatriculated Applicants. Note that there is no NMA admission to the BA major in Planning program.


Bachelor of Arts Honors

General Admission Requirements

Admission to BA Honors is competitive and presentation of minimum average requirements does not guarantee admission.  The Faculty reviews the number of spaces in all majors annually to ensure appropriate resources are available to students in each major.  Enrolment in each major is limited.

High School Applicants

High School applicants are admitted to the BA Honors Foundation Year.  Consideration for the BA Honors Foundation Year requires a minimum application average of 85% on the required five admission subjects outlined in Subject Requirements.

Note: Students must complete an online Program Selection Form accessed through the Faculty of Arts website by the end of the first year of study (minimum 24 units of course weight) to indicate their preferred major(s).  The minimum average requirements and any prerequisites are outlined in the Specific Admission Requirements to BA Honors Majors chart.  Students are encouraged to complete the requirements for at least two majors in their Foundation Year.

Transfer Applicants

Students who have completed at least 24 units of course weight in other programs must consult the Specific Admission Requirements to BA Honors Majors chart for minimum Admission Grade Point Average (AGPA) and minimum average requirements and any prerequisites for preferred major(s).

Refer to High School Requirements and Transfer Applicants, General Admission Requirements (above) and Postsecondary Applicants.

Nonmatriculated Applicants

There is no direct admission. Presentation of the admission requirements to the BA program (Nonmatriculated Applicants) and completion of the first year in the BA program are required.

Specific Admission Requirements

The Faculty of Arts offers BA Honors programs in the subject areas listed in the Specific Admission Requirements to BA Honors Programs chart. Enrolment in each major is limited.

Combined Honors Programs

For combined Honors programs, students must meet the minimum GPA requirements as specified in each area of concentration (see Specific Admission Requirements to BA Honors Programs) and obtain the recommendation of each department concerned.

Specific Admission Requirements to BA Honors Majors

Honors Program AGPA Requirements from BA Honors Foundation Year Required courses for admission
Anthropology A minimum AGPA of 3.0 with a minimum average of 3.3 in Anthropology courses. Required - Minimum of 3 units in ANTHR
Recommended - ANTHR 101  
Classical Languages
 
Effective September 2019, there will be no further admission to this major.  Students who entered the program prior to September 2019 must complete all program requirements by April 30, 2024.  The last BA Honors degree with a Classical Languages major will be granted at Spring Convocation 2024.
Classics A minimum AGPA of 3.0 with a minimum average of 3.3 in Classics and Latin and Greek courses. Required - Minimum 6 units in LATIN, GREEK, or CLASS
Recommended - LATIN 101 /LATIN 102  and/or GREEK 101 /GREEK 102 , and/or 3 units in CLASS
Comparative Literature Effective September 2019, there will be no further admission to this major. Students who entered the program prior to September 2019 must complete all program requirements by April 30, 2023. The last degree with a Comparative Literature major will be granted at Spring Convocation 2023.
Creative Writing (Department of English and Film Studies)
 
Effective September 2019, there will be no further admission to this major.  Students who entered the program prior to September 2019 must complete all program requirements by April 30, 2024.  The last BA Honors degree in Creative Writing combined with another major will be granted at Spring Convocation 2024.
Drama A minimum AGPA of 3.0 with a minimum average of 3.3 in Drama courses. Required - minimum 6 units in DRAMA
Recommended - DRAMA 103  and DRAMA 150  
East Asian Studies  A minimum AGPA of 3.0 with a minimum average of 3.3 in East Asian Studies courses. Required - minimum 6 units in CHINA, EASIA, JAPAN, or KOREA
Recommended - EASIA 101  and 6 units from CHINA, JAPAN or KOREA
Economics A minimum AGPA of 3.0 with a minimum average of 3.3 in Economics courses. Required - ECON 101  and ECON 102  (or equivalent)
Recommended - STAT 151  and MATH 156  (or equivalent)
English A minimum AGPA of 3.3 with a minimum average of 3.3 in English courses. Required - 6 units selected from ENGL 102 , ENGL 103 , ENGL 125 WRS 101  or equivalent.
History A minimum AGPA of 3.3 with a minimum average of 3.3 in History courses. Required - minimum of 3 units in HIST
Recommended - a 100-level HIST course
History of Art, Design, and Visual Culture A minimum AGPA of 3.0 with a minimum average of 3.3 in History of Art, Design and Visual Culture courses. Required - minimum of 3 units in HADVC (or equivalent)
Recommended - 6 units in one Language other than English (normally French, German, or Italian)
Human Geography A minimum AGPA of 3.0 with a minimum average of 3.3 in Human Geography courses. Required - minimum of 3 units in HGEO (or equivalent)
Recommended - HGEO 100  
Linguistics A minimum AGPA of 3.0 with a minimum average of 3.3 in Linguistics courses. Required - 3 units in LING
Recommended - LING 101  
Mathematics
(see also BSc (Honors) and Admissions Chart 7 for BSc admission requirements)
A minimum AGPA of 3.0 with a minimum average of 3.3 in Mathematics courses. Required - minimum of 3 units in MATH
Recommended - MATH 117 , MATH 118 , MATH 125  and MATH 228  
Modern Languages and Cultural Studies A minimum AGPA of 3.0 with a minimum average of 3.3 in courses in the major subject area Required - minimum of 6 units offered by the Department
Music A minimum AGPA of 3.0 with a minimum average of 3.3 in Music courses. Required - minimum of 6 units in MUSIC
Note: First year music options include MUSIC 124 , MUSIC 126  and MUSIC 127 . An audition is required for admission to MUSIC 124 , MUSIC 126  and MUSIC 127 . (Auditions take place in March and May.)
Philosophy A minimum AGPA of 3.0 with a minimum average of 3.3 in Philosophy courses. Required - minimum of 6 units in PHIL
Political Science A minimum AGPA of 3.3 with a minimum average of 3.3 in Political Science courses. Required - minimum of 6 units in POL S
Recommended - POL S 101  
Psychology A minimum AGPA of 3.0 on a minimum 24 units of course weight. Must have 48 units toward program completed. Required - PSYCH 104  or SCI 100, and PSYCH 105  
Additional Requirement - formal approval from a research supervisor
Religious Studies A minimum AGPA of 3.0 with a minimum average of 3.3 in Religious Studies courses and approved cross-listed courses. Required - minimum of 6 units in RELIG which may include 3 units in approved cross-listed courses
Recommended - RELIG 102  and RELIG 103  
Sociology A minimum AGPA of 3.3 with an average of 3.3 or better in all Sociology courses and no grade of less than B- in any Sociology course. Required - SOC 100  (or equivalent)
Women’s and Gender Studies A minimum AGPA of 3.0 with a minimum average of 3.3 in Women’s and Gender Studies (WGS) courses and cross-listed Women’s and Gender Studies courses. Required - minimum of 6 units in WGS and/or approved cross-listed courses
Recommended - 3 units in WGS at the 100 or 200-level

 


Bachelor of Arts (Criminology)

A capacity of 200 students exists in the program, and admission is determined on a competitive basis from among eligible applicants. To be eligible for consideration for admission, the minimum requirements are as follows:

High School Applicants

Applicants must present the high school subjects as specified in High School Requirements.

Admission to the BA (Criminology) Program is competitive.  The number of high school and transfer admissions or readmissions to the program may be limited in any given year depending on the number of applicants and their qualifications.  Presentation of the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.  Applicants will be assessed on the basis of their academic records as described below.

High school applicants will be considered for admission based on their admission average on five subjects noted below.  See High School Applicants  for minimum grade and admission average requirements.

Subject Requirements

  1. English Language Arts 30-1
  2. Four subjects from Group A, B and/or C.  A maximum of one Group B may be presented for admission.  In order to maximize their future program and course choices, all students are encouraged to present a broad range of subjects across Group A  and C.
  3. Mathematics 30-2 may be used for admission.  Only one of Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2 will be used for admission purposes.

Transfer Applicants

See Transfer from a Postsecondary Institutions  and Transfer of Credit .

Students are strongly advised to include 3 units of junior ENGL, SOC 100  (3 units), PSYCH 104  (3 units) and PSYCH 105  (3 units), and a Language other than English (6 units, if applicable), or their equivalents, in their first year. No more than 78 units of course weight will be granted in transfer credit toward the BA (Criminology) program.  Refer to Application Procedures and Deadlines .

Nonmatriculated Applicants

Subject Requirements

  1. English Language Arts 30-1 or 3 units in transferable English at the 100-level
  2. Another 30-level subject from Group A, B, or C (or equivalent)
  3. Presentation of Faculty minimum average on (1) and (2), and a competitive AGPA if any postsecondary-level coursework is presented.
  4. Presentation of no more than 21 units of course weight of postsecondary-level coursework.  Any applicant who has successfully completed 24 units of course weight or more at the postsecondary level will be considered a transfer applicant.  (See Transfer from a Postsecondary Institutions  and Transfer of Credit .)

Bachelor of Fine Arts (Art and Design) and Bachelor of Design

A successful portfolio is required for all applicants [see Notes (1) and (2) below]. Applicants must also meet the following admission requirements:

High School Applicants

Subject Requirements

  1. English Language Arts 30-1
  2. Four subjects from Group A, B and/or C. A maximum of one Group B may be presented for admission. In order to maximize their future program and course choices, all students are encouraged to present a broad range of subjects across Group A and C.
  3. Mathematics 30-2 may be used for admission to the BFA or BDes programs, though some routes require or Mathematics 30-1 as a prerequisite for required courses (see below). Only one of Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2 will be used for admission purposes.
  4. See additional requirements below for specific routes.

For applicants intending to enter the BDes Engineering Route, Mathematics 30-1 is required. Mathematics 31 and Physics 30 are recommended.

Note: Applicants intending to enter the BDes Social Sciences Route with a concentration in Psychology are advised that Mathematics 30-1 is a prerequisite for certain courses.

Transfer Applicants

Applicants with the high school requirements and with the required matriculation average are considered for admission if they also meet the Faculty Transfer regulations specified in Postsecondary Applicants. Applicants who do not present the high school requirements or the required matriculation average may be considered for admission if they successfully complete, at an accredited postsecondary institution, one year (30 units of course weight) or more of coursework transferable to the BFA (Art and Design) or the BDes program. This work is accepted in place of matriculation subject requirements, except for English Language Arts 30-1 (or equivalent), which is required. Such applicants must also meet the Faculty transfer regulations specified in Readmission and Transfer b, c, and d and Transfer from the Transition Year Program.

Nonmatriculated Applicants

Refer to Nonmatriculated Applicants.

Notes

  1. Because enrolment is limited and because the studies in this interpretive/creative field involve highly specialized training, candidates must satisfy a selection committee that they have the ability and commitment to undertake the program. The selection committee decides based on evidence derived from an assessment of any course that may have been taken and a portfolio of work done by the candidate.
  2. Portfolios and applications must be received by the deadlines noted in Undergraduate Application Deadlines for Admission and Readmission .
  3. Enquiries regarding the detailed artistic requirements for admission to these programs should be directed initially to the Department of Art and Design, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2C9; telephone (780) 492-5712, e-mail artdes@ualberta.ca.
  4. Students seeking readmission to the BFA (Art and Design) program (see Withdrawal ) or readmission to the BDes program (see Withdrawal ) following a recommendation not to continue must meet the program readmission requirements.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama (Acting)

General Admission Requirements

In addition to a student’s application, the following must also be submitted:

  • A letter of intent
  • A theatre resume
  • A headshot
  • Two letters of reference from teachers or directors

Applicants must also audition for the program. See Department of Drama website for application deadlines and audition information.

High School Applicants

There is no admission to the program directly from high school. See Transfer Requirements below.

Transfer Applicants

Normally successful completion of 30 units of course weight, transferable to a BA program in the Faculty, is required. Applicants presenting less than the normal 30 units of course weight, but no less than 21 units of course weight, may be admitted. Any and all units of course weight less than the normal 30 units of course weight must be completed before the Fall Term of the third year. Credits must include 3 units in junior-level English or WRS 101 . The remaining credits are optional; however, courses in the Humanities,  Social Sciences, and Fine Arts are recommended. A maximum of 18 units in DRAMA are permitted.

Also refer to Readmission and Transfer b, c, and d, and Transfer from the Transition Year Program for Faculty transfer regulations.

Nonmatriculated Applicants

There is no direct admission of nonmatriculated applicants to this program. Such applicants must apply for admission to the BA program (see Nonmatriculated Applicants) and complete the first year of that program to qualify as a Transfer applicant as described above.

Notes

  1. Ideally, students should possess some knowledge and understanding of the liberal arts; however, applicants with other academic backgrounds (e.g., science, business, etc.) will be considered if they meet the transfer requirements outlined in II above.
  2. Because enrolment is necessarily limited and because the studies in this interpretive-creative field involve highly specialized training, candidates must satisfy a selection committee that they have the ability and  commitment to undertake the program. The selection committee decides based on assessment of previous performing arts courses and other theatre experience, letters of reference, letter of intent, an interview and audition.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drama (Production)

There are three routes in the BFA in Drama (Production): Design, Stage Management, and Technical Production.

General Admission Requirements

All applicants must have an interview and submit three references and meet the general admission requirements. Additional requirements for each route are outlined in the additional information section.

High School Applicants

  1. English Language Arts 30-1
  2. Four subjects from Group A, B and/or C. A maximum of one Group B may be presented for admission. In order to maximize their future program and course choices, all students are encouraged to present a broad range of subjects across Group A and C.
  3. Mathematics 30-2 may be used for admission to this BFA in Drama program, but only one of Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2 will be used for admission purposes.

Transfer Applicants

Refer to Postsecondary Transfer Applicants  and Postsecondary Applicants.

Note: The Department requires an admission grade point average of at least 2.3. Students admitted with less than 30 units of course weight will be required to complete all non-Drama requirements by the beginning of their fourth year. Transfer of any Drama course is subject to approval of the Department of Drama.

Nonmatriculated Applicants

Refer to Nonmatriculated Applicants.

Additional Information

  1. Ideally, students should possess some knowledge and understanding of the liberal arts; however, applicants with other academic backgrounds (e.g., Science, Business) will be considered (if they meet the transfer requirements outlined in II above).
  2. Because enrolment is limited and because the studies in this interpretive/creative field involve highly specialized training, candidates must satisfy a selection committee that they have the ability, skills and commitment to undertake the program.
    • The selection committee for the Design route decides based on an assessment of the candidate’s portfolio, testimony of three referees, and an interview.
    • The selection committee for the Stage Management and Technical Production routes decides based on the applicant’s letter of intent, résumé, and testimony of three referees, and an interview.
    • The selection committee encourages every applicant to come for an interview to view the facilities, meet the instructors, and gain a first-hand impression of the daily workings of the Drama Department.
    • Those students in other parts of Canada who want to know more about a possible interview should write to Department of Drama, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2C9; telephone (780) 492-2271, e-mail drama@ualberta.ca
  3. Every prospective student to the Design route of Drama must submit a portfolio indicating ability. Anything the applicant considers interesting, exciting, or appropriate (i.e., painting, drawing, or photos of craft work or high school drama work) is considered. A portfolio should consist of any evidence of the candidate’s skills in visual communication (e.g., drawing, painting, drafting, photography, arts and crafts, graphic arts).
  4. Candidates must contact the Department of Drama, in writing, no later than May 1. (see Admission and Readmission Deadlines ). Early application is encouraged.
  5. Inquiries regarding the professional requirements for admission to this program should be directed to Department of Drama, 3-146 Fine Arts Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2C9; telephone (780) 492-2271, e-mail drama@ualberta.ca
  6. Applicants who want to be considered for an alternate program in Arts must meet the specified matriculation and postsecondary admission requirements for that program.

Bachelor of Music (General)

General Requirements

  1. Audition
  2. Theory Placement Exam

High School Applicants

  1. English Language Arts 30-1
  2. Four subjects from Group A, B and/or C. A maximum of one Group B may be presented for admission. In order to maximize their future program and course choices, all students are encouraged to present a broad range of subjects across Group A and C.
  3. Mathematics 30-2 may be used for admission to this BMus program, but only one of Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2 will be used for admission purposes.

Transfer Applicants

Refer to Postsecondary Transfer Applicants  and Postsecondary Applicants.

Note: The Department requires an admission grade point average of at least 2.3.

Nonmatriculated Applicants

Refer to Nonmatriculated Applicants.


Bachelor of Music (Composition and Sonic Arts)

General Requirements

  1. Audition
  2. Theory Placement Exam
  3. Composition Portfolio

High School Applicants

  1. English Language Arts 30-1
  2. Four subjects from Group A, B and/or C. A maximum of one Group B may be presented for admission. In order to maximize their future program and course choices, all students are encouraged to present a broad range of subjects across Group A and C.
  3. Mathematics 30-2 may be used for admission to this BMus program, but only one of Mathematics 30- 1 or 30-2 will be used for admission purposes.

Transfer Applicants

Refer to Postsecondary Transfer Applicants  and Postsecondary Applicants.

Note: The Department requires an admission grade point average of at least 2.3.

Nonmatriculated Applicants

Refer to Nonmatriculated Applicants.

Notes

  1. Because enrolment is limited and because the study in this interpretive/creative field involves highly specialized education, applicants must demonstrate an adequate measure of musical ability. An audition committee considers applicants’ musical background and goals as discussed during the audition which includes musical performance. The Department’s admission recommendation to the Faculty considers the report of the audition committee as well as the results of departmentally administered aural and music rudiments examinations.
  2. Candidates should apply as early as January 1, even though applications will be received until the application deadline in Undergraduate Application Process and Deadlines . Candidates must apply to the Department of Music for an admission audition before the audition deadline in Undergraduate Application Process and Deadlines .
  3. Enquiries regarding artistic requirements for admission to this program should be directed to Department of Music, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2C9; telephone (780) 492-3263, e-mail musicug@ualberta.ca
  4. Admission to the BMus programs with transfer credits from other programs and institutions requires an admission grade point average of 2.3. See Transfer from a Postsecondary Institutions .

Bachelor of Music (Performance)

Entrance to the Bachelor of Music (BMus) (Performance) programs normally takes place at the end of the second year of enrolment in the BMus (General) program. An admission GPA of 2.3 on courses previously completed (minimum 24 units of course weight) in the BMus program, a 3.7 (A-) or higher grade in MUSIC 225, and the recommendation of the Department are required. Interested students must contact the Department of Music by April 1.

Candidates may choose from piano, organ, voice, violin, viola, violoncello, double bass, classical guitar, lute, flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon, trumpet, horn, trombone, baritone horn, tuba, percussion, and harp.

High School Applicants

There is no admission directly from high school.

Transfer Applicants

Refer to General Requirements and other Faculty requirements outlined in Postsecondary Applicants.

Nonmatriculated Applicants

Nonmatriculated applicants normally complete the first year in the Bachelor of Music (General) program and would be required to present the admission requirements for that program, noted in Nonmatriculated Applicants.


Bachelor of Music/Bachelor of Education (Elementary) Combined Degrees and Bachelor of Music/Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Combined Degrees

General Admission Requirements

  1. Audition
  2. Theory Placement Exam

Note: Students who do not pass a theory placement examination may be required to complete MUSIC 100  (extra to degree) before enrolling in MUSIC 155 .

High School Applicants

  1. English Language Arts 30-1
  2. Four subjects from Group A, B and/or C. A maximum of one Group B may be presented for admission. In order to maximize their future program and course choices, all students are encouraged to present a broad range of subjects across Group A and C.
  3. Mathematics 30-2 may be used for admission to these combined degrees programs, but only one of Mathematics 30-1 or 30-2 will be used for admission purposes. Depending on the student’s choice of minor in the BEd portion of the program, Mathematics 30-1 may be required as a prerequisite for required courses.

Transfer Applicants

Refer to Postsecondary Transfer Applicants  and Postsecondary Applicants.

Note: The Department requires an admission grade point average of at least 2.3.

Nonmatriculated Applicants

Refer to Nonmatriculated Applicants.

Year 4 in the Faculty of Education

All qualified Year 3 BMus/BEd Combined Degrees program students will be promoted to Year 4 in the Faculty of Education provided that

  1. A minimum AGPA of 2.3 has been achieved, and
  2. A minimum of 99 units of course weight applicable to this program has been successfully completed.
  3. Spoken English Requirement: Applicants must also meet a spoken English requirement. See Spoken English Proficiency  .

General Notes on Admission

  1. Because enrolment is necessarily limited and because the study in this interpretive-creative field involves highly specialized education, applicants must demonstrate an adequate measure of musical ability to begin study in the degree program. An audition committee bases its admission recommendation upon consideration of applicants’ musical background and goals as discussed during the audition, which includes musical performance. The Department’s admission recommendation to the Faculty of Arts will take into account the report of the audition committee as well as the results of departmentally administered aural and music rudiments examinations.
  2. Candidates are encouraged to apply as early as January 1, even though applications are received until the application deadline noted in Undergraduate Application Process and Deadlines . Candidates must apply to the Department of Music for an admission audition prior to the audition deadline noted in Undergraduate Application Process and Deadlines .
  3. Enquiries regarding the artistic requirements for admission to this program should be directed to Department of Music, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2C9; telephone (780) 492-3263, e-mail music@ualberta.ca
  4. Admission to the BMus programs with transfer credits from other programs and institutions requires an admission grade point average of 2.3. General requirements are set out in Transfer from a Postsecondary Institutions  

Bachelor of Arts (Drama)/BEd (Secondary) Combined Degrees

High School Applicants

See Bachelor of Arts.

Transfer Applicants

Refer to Postsecondary Transfer Applicants  and Postsecondary Applicants.

Note: This program requires an admission grade point average of at least 2.3.

Nonmatriculated Applicants

Refer to Nonmatriculated Applicants.

Year 4 in the Faculty of Education

All qualified Year 3 BA (Drama)/BEd (Secondary) Combined Degrees program students will be promoted to Year 4 in the Faculty of Education provided that

  1. A minimum AGPA of 2.3 has been achieved, and
  2. A minimum of 90 units of course weight applicable to this program has been successfully completed.
  3. Spoken English Requirement: Applicants must also meet a spoken English requirement. See Spoken English Proficiency .

Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies

This program is offered jointly by the Faculty of Agricultural, Life and Environmental Sciences and the Faculty of Arts. Students can apply for admission to either Faculty

High School Applicants

Subject Requirements

  1. English Language Arts 30-1
  2. Mathematics 30-1 or Mathematics 30-2
  3. Biology 30
  4. Subject from Group A (Social Studies 30 or 30-1 recommended)
  5. Subject from Group A, B, C or Macroeconomics 30 and Microeconomics 30, or a minimum of five credits in Career and Technology subjects at the Advanced level from the following strands: Agriculture, Foods, Forestry, or Wildlife.

Nonmatriculated Applicants

Nonmatriculated applicants must present the competitive average for the program based on the following three courses:

Subject Requirements

  1. English Language Arts 30-1
  2. Mathematics 30-1 or Mathematics 30-2
  3. Biology 30

Students must also meet other requirements for nonmatriculated application for the Faculty of Arts. See also Subject Requirements (3) and Subject Requirements (4) and Other Requirements (1) and Other Requirements (2).

Transfer Applicants

Please refer to Transfer from a Postsecondary Institutions , Postsecondary Applicants and High School Requirements.


Postsecondary Applicants

Readmission and Transfer

These regulations are for applicants with previous postsecondary education who want to apply for readmission to the Faculty after an absence, or to change programs within Arts, as well as those who wish to transfer from other Faculties and other postsecondary institutions.

  • Applicants to programs except BA Environmental Studies and the BA major in Planning who do not present either the high school requirements or the required matriculation average:
    • may be considered for admission if they successfully complete transferable course work, at an accredited postsecondary institution as follows:
      • 12-15 units of course weight of coursework transferable to the Faculty of Arts with an average of 3.0 or higher.
      • 18-21 units of course weight of coursework transferable to the Faculty of Arts with an average of 2.7 or higher. Or,
      • 24 units of course weight or more of coursework transferable to the Faculty of Arts with a competitive average for the appropriate program. Or,
    • This work is accepted in place of matriculation subject requirements, except for English Language Arts 30-1 (or equivalent), which is required for all applicants.
    • This coursework may not include any courses equivalent to ones previously passed at this or any other institution. For a course to be considered transferable from another postsecondary institution a minimum final grade of C- is required.
  • Postsecondary applicants to the BA major in Planning and the BA Environmental Studies programs must meet specific high school course requirements as outlined in BA and Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies in order to meet prerequisite requirements for required courses in the program. All requirements as outlined in BA and Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies for the BA major in Planning and the BA Environmental Studies programs must be met.
  • Postsecondary applicants to the BA major in Economics must present an AGPA of at least 2.3 on all courses transferable to the Faculty of Arts.

Students may apply for admission or readmission to the BA program in the Faculty if they have a competitive AGPA (minimum 2.0) and meet all other admission requirements. Applicants should note, however, that presentation of the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Some programs and BA majors require minimum averages greater than 2.0. Refer to specific program requirements.

See also Transfer from a Postsecondary Institutions .

Transfer from the Transition Year Program

See Transition Year Program for Indigenous Applicants .

Applicants who have previously been required to withdraw

Applicants who have previously been required to withdraw once from any Faculty at the University of Alberta (or equivalent by the standards of the Faculty of Arts, see Academic Standing and Graduation  for details) may be considered for admission or readmission. Following the requirement to withdraw:

  1. Applicants must normally discontinue studies for at least 12 months and apply for admission or readmission for a future term by the published deadline. Students who are admitted under these guidelines must maintain satisfactory academic standing for the duration of their studies in the Faculty of Arts or they will be required to withdraw.
  2. Applicants who choose to take one or more course(s) through Open Studies or another institution after being required to withdraw from any University of Alberta Faculty and before admission to the Faculty of Arts must present a competitive average on those courses. The minimum average is 2.0; however, presentation of the minimum average does not guarantee admission.
    Note: The average for admission for students who choose to take less than 24 units of course weight after being required to withdraw will be calculated on any work completed since the requirement to withdraw. Students who choose to take 24 units of course weight or more after being required to withdraw will be calculated using normal AGPA (Admission Grade Point Average) regulations (see Transfer from a Postsecondary Institutions ).

Applicants who have previously been required to withdraw once (or equivalent by the standards of the Faculty of Arts, see Academic Standing and Graduation  for details) from any other postsecondary institution will be considered for admission on the basis of the AGPA as described in Transfer from a Postsecondary Institutions . Such applicants must either:

  1. Have completed 18 units of course weight of postsecondary courses transferable to the Faculty of Arts subsequent to the requirement to withdraw with a GPA of at least 2.7 or
  2. Have completed 24 units of course weight of postsecondary courses transferable to the Faculty of Arts subsequent to the requirement to withdraw with an AGPA of at least 2.0.

Note: The average for admission for students who choose to take less than 24 units of course weight after being required to withdraw will be calculated on any work completed since the requirement to withdraw. Students who choose to take 24 units of course weight or more after being required to withdraw will be calculated using normal AGPA (Admission Grade Point Average) regulations (see Transfer from a Postsecondary Institutions ).

Applicants from any Postsecondary Institution, including the University of Alberta, who have been Required to Withdraw twice

Applicants whose previous postsecondary records indicate they have been required to withdraw twice [or equivalent by the standards of the Faculty of Arts, see Academic Standing and Graduation  for details] or who have failed probation from any postsecondary institution will be considered for admission

  1. Five years after the last requirement to withdraw or
  2. Three years after the last requirement to withdraw if the applicant has also completed
    • 18 units of course weight transferable to the Faculty of Arts with a GPA of at least 2.7 subsequent to the last requirement to withdraw or
    • 24 units of course weight transferable to the Faculty of Arts with a competitive average subsequent to the last requirement to withdraw. The minimum average is 2.0; however, presentation of the minimum average does not guarantee admission

Note: Students who meet the above condition, and who also choose to take one or more course(s) through Open Studies or another institution after being required to withdraw for the second time and before admission to the Faculty of Arts at the University of Alberta, must present a competitive average on those courses. The minimum average is 2.0; however, presentation of the minimum average does not guarantee admission.

Transfer credit may be granted for coursework completed at a recognized postsecondary institution provided:

  1. The course is applicable to the degree program to which the student is being admitted and
  2. A minimum final grade of C- (or equivalent) is presented.
  3. Credit will not normally be given for coursework of a professional nature.

All applicants whose previous postsecondary records indicate they have been required to withdraw and/or failed probation more than twice (or equivalent by the standards of the Faculty of Arts, see Academic Standing and Graduation  for details) will not be considered for admission.


Nonmatriculated Applicants

Subject Requirements

  1. English Language Arts 30-1 or 3 units in transferable English at the 100-level
  2. Another 30-level subject from Group A, B, or C (or equivalent)
  3. Presentation of Faculty minimum average on (1) and (2), and a competitive AGPA if any postsecondary-level coursework is presented.
  4. Presentation of no more than 21 units of course weight of postsecondary-level coursework. Any applicant who has successfully completed 24 units of course weight or more at the postsecondary level will be considered a transfer applicant. (See Transfer from a Postsecondary Institutions  and Postsecondary Applicants.)

Other Requirements

  1. See general nonmatriculated applicant requirements Nonmatriculated Applicants .
  2. NMA applicants are not considered for admission to the BA major in Planning.

Visiting Students

Students from other universities or colleges are eligible to be considered for admission to the Faculty of Arts as Visiting Students if

  1. They are degree program students at their home institution;
  2. Their home institution provides a letter of permission;
  3. They have completed a minimum of 24 units of course weight at the home institution;
  4. Their academic record shows satisfactory standing.

Visiting student status is granted for up to 12 months from the initial confirmed registration. Visiting students must reapply each year and present a new letter of permission from their home institution.

Note: Arts students at this University who wish to attend another institution as a Visiting Student should refer to Letter of Permission .


Indigenous Applicants

See Admission of Indigenous Applicants .


Special Students

Special students are those who have been permitted to register in one or more courses not being taken for credit toward a degree program. To be considered for admission as a Special Student in the Faculty of Arts, applicants must normally have received a university degree from an accredited postsecondary institution, must present a competitive admission grade point average, and meet English language proficiency requirements specified in Language Proficiency Requirements . As the Faculty of Arts is a limited enrolment Faculty, priority in admission is given to applicants to degree programs.