Athabasca University is a pioneering online institution offering flexible and accessible education possibilities for students worldwide. With a commitment to empowering lifelong learners, the university’s mission is to remove barriers and provide high-quality education through innovative technologies.
At Athabasca, the vision is to be a global leader in open and distance learning, shaping the future of education. The university’s values revolve around excellence, inclusiveness, and learner-centricity, ensuring students receive personalized support to achieve their academic goals.
In this blog, we’ll explore Athabasca University’s popular courses, affordable tuition fees, straightforward admission process, and entry requirements. Get ready to discover how this remarkable institution can unlock your educational potential and propel your dreams forward.
Also Read:- University of Saskatchewan
About Athabasca University
Athabasca University has a rich history dating back to 1970 when it was established as one of Canada’s first distance education universities. Since then, it has been at the forefront of delivering flexible and accessible online education.
Now, it is an open public university in Athabasca, Alberta, Canada. Although the university doesn’t have a traditional campus, it offers a vibrant virtual community that connects learners worldwide.
Athabasca’s Flexible Learning Options are designed to fit your lifestyle. You can choose from fully online courses, individualized study plans, or paced programs with scheduled start dates. This flexibility lets you balance your studies with work, family, or other commitments.
The university offers various academic programs, including undergraduate degrees, graduate programs, diplomas, and certificates in business, health, education, arts, and science. With over 850 courses and 55 programs, you’ll find something that aligns with your interests and career goals.
Student Support Services are a top priority at Athabasca University. You’ll have access to academic advisors, tutors, online writing centers, library resources, and technical support to ensure your success.
The university also provides opportunities for virtual engagement through online clubs, forums, and social events, encouraging a sense of community among its various student body.
Whether you’re a working professional, a stay-at-home parent, or someone living in a remote area, Athabasca University’s flexible learning options, comprehensive programs, and supportive services make it an ideal choice for pursuing your educational dreams.
Why Choose Athabasca University?
Here are some of the best reasons why students should choose Athabasca University:
Education at Your Fingertips
Athabasca brings quality education right to you as a leader in online and distance learning. No matter where you are, you can access course materials, attend virtual classes, and connect with instructors and fellow students.
Learning On Your Own Terms
Athabasca offers truly flexible learning that fits your life. With online classes, customized study plans, and scheduled programs, you can get an education while juggling work, family, or other responsibilities.
Support for Your Success
Athabasca University provides many student services, from academic advisors and tutors to online writing help and technical support. You’ll have the resources and guidance to thrive in your studies.
Programs for Every Interest
With over 55 programs and 850 courses in business, health, education, arts, and science, Athabasca offers diverse academic options to match your interests and career goals.
Affordable and Flexible Payments
The university’s tuition fees are competitive, making quality education accessible to students from various backgrounds. The university also offers flexible payment plans and financial aid opportunities to help you manage the costs of your studies.
By choosing Athabasca University, you’ll embark on an educational journey designed for your needs, empowering you to achieve your academic and professional goals confidently.
Athabasca University Programs
Athabasca offers a wide range of diplomas, certificates, and bachelor’s and master’s degree programs for students in various fields. Here are some of the Athabasca’s top programs.
| Course | Fees (INR) | Fees (CAD) |
| Master of Business Administration [M.B.A] Supply Chain Management | INR 10.2 L/Yr | CAD 16,705 /Yr |
| Graduation Diploma [Grad.Dip] Architecture | INR 15 L/Yr | CAD 24,552 /Yr |
| Graduate Certificate [Grad.Cert] Data Analytics | INR 15 L/Yr | CAD 24,552 /Yr |
| Master of Business Administration [M.B.A] Accountants | INR 10.2 L/Yr | CAD 16,705 /Yr |
| Master of Science [M.S] Information Systems | INR 15 L/Yr | CAD 24,552 /Yr |
| [Grad.Cert] Information Technology Management | INR 15 L/Yr | CAD 24,552 /Yr |
| Master of Science in Nursing [M.S.N] | INR 14.1 L/Yr | CAD 23,199 /Yr |
| Bachelor of Science [B.S] Architecture | INR 9.9 L/Yr | CAD 16,275 /Yr |
| Bachelor of Arts [B.A] Psychology | INR 9.9 L/Yr | CAD 16,275 /Yr |
| Bachelor of Science [B.S] Applied Mathematics | INR 9.9 L/Yr | CAD 16,275 /Yr |
| Graduate Certificate [Grad.Cert] Information Security | INR 15 L/Yr | CAD 24,552 /Yr |
| Bachelor of Science [B.S] Computing and Information Systems | INR 9.9 L/Yr | CAD 16,275 /Yr |
Also Read:- University of Regina
Admission Requirements
Here are the admission requirements for students at Athabasca University:
- Official transcripts from previous institutions
- previous diplomas
- post-secondary education records
- undergraduate degree credits
- work and life experiences
- English language proficiency scores
- Transcripts from post-secondary institutions
- Resume
- Biography
- Questionnaires
- Letters of reference
English Language Proficiency Requirements
If English is not your first language, you must show English language proficiency (ELP) to enroll in Athabasca University courses. AU accepts the following as proof of ELP:
| Exam | Required Scores |
| IELTS | 6.0 |
| CAEL | 60% of score |
| MELAB | 80 |
| PTE | 59 |
| TOEFL PBT | 213 |
| TOEFL iBT | 80 |
How To Apply For Athabasca University
Here are the steps to apply for Athabasca University.
- Choose Your Program: Decide which program you want to study, and note the number of years it takes and your major area of study. You’ll need these details later.
- Check for Transfer Credits: If you have a previous college or university education or significant work or life experience, explore options to get credit for what you’ve already learned.
- Fill Out the Application: Complete the Undergraduate General Application and select the option “Yes, I am applying to a specific program.”
- Use ApplyAlberta: Follow the instructions on the ApplyAlberta site to continue your application process.
- Complete the Application: After using ApplyAlberta, you’ll return to the Athabasca University site to finish your application.
- Pay the Fees: Pay the one-time application fee and any evaluation fees (if applicable). If ApplyAlberta can’t automatically forward your official transcripts, contact your previous schools and have them send them to Athabasca University.
- Note Your Student ID: Write down your Athabasca University student ID number that you’ll receive at the end of the application process.
- Submit Transcripts and Documents: If ApplyAlberta couldn’t forward your transcripts, make sure to have your official transcripts sent directly to Athabasca University. Also, submit any other required supporting documents to the Office of the Registrar.
- Register for Courses: Once your application is complete, you can register for undergraduate courses at Athabasca University through the myAU portal.
Scholarship Opportunities
The institute offers a range of awards and scholarships to international students. To apply for financial aid, candidates must first apply for student financial assistance. Once this step is completed, they must provide a course registration plan.
The institute offers many scholarships to its students, which are awarded based on factors such as their level of study, residency, and other criteria. Below are some of the scholarships and awards for international students.
- Athabasca University Institutional Leadership Scholarship
- AU Academic Leadership Scholarship
- AU PLAR Scholarship
- Dominique Abrioux Graduate Scholarship
- AU Graduate Student Scholarship
- Walker Family – Master of Counseling Scholarship
Placements
Athabasca University has excellent job placement rates for its graduates. The MBA and Nursing master’s programs both achieve an impressive 100% employment rate.
Nursing graduates earn an average salary of $70,000. The Master of Counselling program also performs very well, with a 93% employment rate and an average salary of $65,000 for its graduates.
The university provides helpful career resources through Career Cruising to support students in finding great job opportunities after completing their studies. Overall, Athabasca’s programs set up students for success in the job market. The average salaries of the university graduates as per programs are given below:
| Program/Degree | Average Salary (CAD) |
| Master of Counselling | 65,000 |
| Master of Nursing | 70,000 |
| Bachelor of Commerce | 70,000 |
| Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting | 45,000 |
| Bachelor of Commerce in Human Resource Management | 91,000 |
| Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing | 91,000 |
| Bachelor of Science | 72,000 |
| Bachelor of Arts | 45,000 |
Also Read:- University Of Victoria Canada
Final Remarks
In the end, Athabasca University stands out as a top choice for students seeking quality education on their own terms.
With its flexible online programs, personalized support services, and affordable costs, this university removes barriers and opens doors.
You can access world-class courses from anywhere, whether you’re a working professional, parent, or living remotely.
Athabasca’s diverse programs cover many fields, so you’ll find your passion. With convenient payment options, higher education is achievable.
Explore Athabasca University’s offerings to take the first step toward unlocking your full potential. An empowering educational journey awaits you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is the Athabasca University degree valid?
Yes, it is a fully accredited public post-secondary institution in Canada.
Q2. Does Athabasca accept international students?
Athabasca University is committed to providing high-quality, flexible, and accessible online education with exceptional student support to help learners worldwide succeed.
Q3. Is Athabasca University only online?
The university offers various online and distance education programs in various subjects.
Athabasca University Reviews
Amir Khan – ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ☆ (4.8 Rating)
Athabasca University was a game-changer for me. As a working mom, the flexible online classes allowed me to study independently and balance my education with family life. The instructors were supportive, and the course materials were top-notch. I’m so glad I chose this university.
Samantha Rodrigue – ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ☆ (4.4 Rating)
Studying at Athabasca University was a breeze. The online platform was user-friendly, and I never felt alone in my studies. The student support services, like tutoring and writing assistance, were invaluable. I recommend this institute to anyone pursuing a quality education without sacrificing their lifestyle.
Michael Nguyen – ⭐⭐⭐ ☆ (3.8 Rating)
Athabasca University’s affordable tuition fees and flexible payment options made pursuing higher education a reality for me. The wide range of programs allowed me to find an excellent fit for my career goals. I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn from this reputable institution without breaking the bank.