Athabasca University
Athabasca, Canada
- Cost of LivingCAD 21,120
- Tuition Fee FromCAD 5,130
- Country Rank#47
- Batch Strength40,722
- Global Diversity-
- Gender Ratio-
Overview
About
The Government of Alberta issued an Order in Council on June 25, 1970, establishing Athabasca University. When a pilot study to explore the idea of an open, remote university was launched in 1972, AU, which was initially planned as a conventional campus-based school, changed its direction. World Ecology, the first course offered by AU, debuted in 1973, and the first convocation for two graduates took place in 1977. On April 12, 1978, the institution became the fourth public university in Alberta to have self-governing status.
With over 40,000 students served globally, AU is now one of the top and fastest-growing online and distance education schools in the world. AU offers around 850 courses and more than 55 undergraduate and graduate programmes in the fields of arts, science, and professional disciplines. The various bachelor, diploma, certificate, Master’s, and graduate diploma programmes in the online learning space at Athabasca University are provided in the following areas: Arts, Applied studies, Business and Administrative, Humanities, Science, Social science, and more.
Admission at Athabasca University is available in multiple intakes around the year and requires a nonrefundable application fee. The institute observes a moderate acceptance rate and a high rate of employment which is nearly 75%. This ensures that the university not only guarantees quality education for all but also can help its candidates land some of the high-paying jobs in Canada. High graduation rates show that students who come to Athabasca are succeeding and moving on to the next step in their careers. In terms of national rankings, Athabasca ranks firmly in the top half of Canadian universities, which has a positive impact on students’ job searches after graduation.
Ranking
Athabasca University ranks high on the list of education institutes in Canada and is also one of the 4 public comprehensive universities in Alberta. It has an enrolment of 40,000 students who prefer the university because of the quality of education, inclusion, innovation, international outlook, and convenience of online learning. These and a few more factors are considered while ranking the university. Here are some of its top-ranking highlights -
- Webometrics National Ranking (2022) - #47
- Webometrics Global Ranking (2022) - #1766
- StuDocu University Ranking National (2022) - #42
- StuDocu University Ranking Global (2022) - #289
Year
QS Ranks
US News Ranks
2023
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Facilities
Because all of Athabasca University's programmes are offered online, they are more accessible and reasonably priced. Open learning does not remove the necessity for further support from the institution on the part of the students. The institution is aware of this requirement and provides its students with a range of academic and student-life assistance. The services aid in academics as well as connecting with fellow university students. Some of the facilities offered at Athabasca are -
- Library
- Write site
- Math site
- Tutors and student support centres
- Disability support centres
- Financial aid and scholarships
Tutoring services -
Finding a good tutor can be challenging, but Athabasca University tutors are always ready to help. They offer a wide variety of services and have the best team of instructors available to help students succeed in their coursework. Their goal is not only to provide excellent service but also to ensure that each student receives personalized attention so they feel comfortable with whatever method they choose.
Advising and Counseling services -
The Athabasca University Advising Services office provides information, support, referrals, and services for students who are experiencing academic issues like academic difficulties, study skills development, and personal concerns (e.g., financial aid) that may be affecting your academic performance. Additionally, the Athabasca University Counseling Services office provides confidential counselling services for students who may be experiencing personal problems that affect their studies such as emotional distress, anxiety/depression, or other mental health concerns.
Athabasca University student union -
Apart from their tutoring, counselling, and advising services, Athabasca offers many resources for student life such as the Athabasca University Student Union (AUSU). Athabasca University’s student union is a resource for students to connect with each other, gain support, and access services. The student union has three main pillars: academic success, mental health and wellness, and personal growth. The Student Union also offers a variety of programmes including:
Notable Alumni
Courses
Admission
Athabasca University Entry Requirements
Students can apply for a programme or course of their choice through the university’s online application portal. There is an application fee of $118. Students will have to send their documents as per the requirements of the selected programme. Here is a list of the basic admission requirements:
Undergraduate Applicants:
- Official transcripts
- Post-secondary education records
- Previous diplomas
- Undergraduate degree credits
- Foreign credentials from other institutions
- Work and life experiences
Postgraduate Applicants:
- Official transcripts from post-secondary institutions
- Resume
- Biography
- Questionnaires
- Letters of reference
International students are also required to take an English proficiency test and submit their results to the institution while submitting their application.
Athabasca University Fees
Athabasca offers over 980 courses and programmes at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The tuition fee depends on the type of programme or course that a student chooses. The institution charges a one-time, non-refundable application fee for each student who applies for a course or programme. The fees for some of the popular courses at the university are as follows:
- M.B.A Supply Chain Management - $19,490 /Year
- M.B.A Accountants - $13,156 /Year
- M.S Information Systems - $16,816 /Year
- Graduate Certificate Data Analytics - $5,274 /Year
- Graduate Certificate Information Technology Management - $5,274 /Year
Athabasca University Placement
The Athabasca University placement programme provides students with an opportunity to experience life in an Alberta work environment. It also provides career opportunities and career tools through Career Cruising. Students are placed with a variety of employers that match their interests and skills, providing them with an insight into the world of work. Placement opportunities are available in all areas including -
- Information technology
- Human resources/business development/marketing
- Communications/public relations/media
- Photography or video production
Scholarship
Regardless of the programme you are studying, there are several scholarship opportunities provided by the Athabasca University as well as other organisations. With so many scholarships available now, overseas students can greatly lower the financial burden of studying in a new country. You can apply for scholarships to study at the university through UniScholars. You can find the following types of scholarships based on your academic performance and financial situation:
- Merit-based scholarships
- Need-based scholarships
- Country-specific scholarships
- College-specific scholarships
- Student-specific scholarships
Finances
Most international students are obligated to show proof of sufficient funds in order to obtain a visa. While some students may have the opportunity to make use of scholarships, not all students cut the eligibility to get a scholarship or a grant. Moreover, not all scholarships cover 100% of your study abroad expenses. At such times, most students resort to acquiring education loans to avoid the financial hassles associated with studying at the University of Toronto. For Indian students, UniCreds is the ideal education loan marketplace if you’re looking for low-interest rates and free consultation services!
Accommodation
There are several student housing options available for students planning to attend the Athabasca University. You may select from a wide choice of affordable yet elegant student flats, halls of residence, studios, ensuites, and more! You have the option of staying on campus in the university halls of residence or in a private residence. Because of their proximity to the university, on-campus housing options may be ideal; nevertheless, they tend to fill up fast and are more expensive.
UniAcco simplifies the process of finding student housing and offers a variety of options. As a result, students can select from a wide range of available student accommodations near the university, such as luxury studios, en-suites, and shared apartments that are more inexpensive and student-friendly.