Okanagan University College

Programme overview

This is a four-year Applied Bachelor of Arts degree delivered on-campus (Kelowna full program; limited offerings in Vernon, Salmon Arm and Penticton). The curriculum emphasizes applied social science and liberal-arts perspectives directed at local and regional issues in the southern interior of British Columbia. Practical learning includes a fourth-year field experience (practicum, placement or co-op) and a major capstone research project. The program prepares graduates for employment in applied research and for potential entry to selective graduate programs such as the Master of Social Work at UBC Okanagan (direct-entry spaces available to qualifying graduates).

What you'll study

Coursework covers applied research methods (qualitative and quantitative), program evaluation, academic and professional writing, critical thinking, ethics and multi-disciplinary social science approaches. The degree includes contextualized study of regional Indigenous cultures and introduction to languages other than English, including local First Nations languages. Students complete a significant capstone research project in the final year and undertake a practical field experience (practicum, placement or cooperative education).

Entry requirements

Regular applicants: B.C. high school graduation or equivalent and satisfaction of the English entrance requirement (English 12 with a minimum grade of 70% or an approved equivalent). Applicants with English 12 below 70% may be admitted if they take Okanagan College Adult Basic Education English 012 concurrently in their first semester. Mature applicant provisions are noted by the institution.

Career prospects

Graduates gain applied-research and evaluation skills and may pursue roles such as program administrators, managers or analysts in social-service agencies, non-profit organisations, community groups and government. Other possible employment pathways include consultancy, social-policy research and advocacy on issues affecting youth, women, families, minorities and cultural diversity. The program also provides preparation for further study, including possible direct entry to UBC Okanagan's Master of Social Work for eligible graduates.

Scholarships & funding angle

Tuition and fees are stated by the college (domestic fees and international totals published by program materials) and students are directed to the institution's Financial Aid and Awards resources for details. The college notes that fees shown are approximate and subject to change and that students should check eligibility for student loans and available awards.