Diploma Program in Canadian Studies

This interdisciplinary program leading to a Diploma in Canadian Studies is offered co-operatively by the Faculty of Humanities, the Faculty of Social Sciences, the Faculty of Fine Arts and the Division of Continuing Studies. The program is especially designed to provide short, integrated academic programs for international and Canadian students. For information on the Certificate in Canadian Studies, see the Division of Continuing Studies calendar.

The Program objectives are to:

• introduce students to the study of Canada from different perspectives
• provide an opportunity for Canadian students to study Canada with international students
• provide a supportive academic environment to assist international students in making the transition to a Canadian university
• assist international students in developing their English (French) language skills
• encourage dialogue between Canadian and non-Canadian students at the University of Victoria

Students are admitted to the diploma program on the recommendation of the faculty coordinator and/or the chair of the program steering committee. Proficiency in English will be a major criterion for admission of international students; therefore, an enriched program for language skill development such as the University Admission Preparation Course (UAPC) is essential. To remain in the program, students must maintain a grade point average of at least 4.0.

The diploma requires admission to the university and completion of a minimum of 18 credit units. The diploma requires the completion of the three core credit courses (CS 101, 102 and 200) and 13.5 units of elective courses. Priority for enrolment in these courses will be given to students in the diploma and certificate programs in Canadian Studies. Students in other programs may enrol in these courses by permission of the chair of the program steering committee. Students may choose elective courses from appropriate existing credit courses offered at the University of Victoria, subject to the faculty coordinator’s approval. Diploma students may transfer a maximum of 4.5 units of appropriate credit courses completed at other institutions. Credit obtained within the diploma program may be transferable to a regular undergraduate degree program. However, such transferability of credit is always subject to the specific requirements of the degree program.

The Canadian Studies diploma program will normally require a minimum of three semesters of residency at the University of Victoria. The diploma program must be completed within the first four years of initial registration.

All inquiries concerning details and regulations of the program should be addressed to Maxine Reitsma, Program Coordinator, Division of Continuing Studies; email: maxiner@uvic.ca.