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Thompson Rivers University
Thompson Rivers University

Programs

Programs

Open Learning programs are your best choice for an online program that fits your lifestyle. OL has the support you need to complete your program successfully and your OLFMs are a diverse and talented group of educators and researchers.

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Undergraduate Programs
Graduate Programs

Adventure, Culinary Arts and Tourism

Bachelor of Tourism Management Bachelor
Credits 120
The Bachelor of Tourism Management program is designed for graduates of recognized two-year diploma programs in tourism management, hospitality...
The Bachelor of Tourism Management program is designed for graduates of recognized two-year diploma programs in tourism management, hospitality administration and outdoor recreation, and for those who have completed related programs and have similar educational backgrounds.
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Event Management Certificate Certificate
Credits 18
Core knowledge covers introductions to tourism and special event management, community and culture, volunteer management, legal liability, and marketing.
Core knowledge covers introductions to tourism and special event management, community and culture, volunteer management, legal liability, and marketing.
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Arts

Advanced Certificate in Liberal Arts Certificate
Credits 30
Study in three areas: humanities (including English), the social sciences, and science — with an emphasis on third- and...
Study in three areas: humanities (including English), the social sciences, and science — with an emphasis on third- and fourth-year courses. Liberal arts electives can be chosen from subject areas including environment, history, politics, psychology, sociology and visual arts.
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Associate of Arts Associate Degree
Credits 60
Take a wide range of courses balanced with in-depth study in arts. Requirements are flexible enough to allow you...
Take a wide range of courses balanced with in-depth study in arts. Requirements are flexible enough to allow you to complete prerequisites for your intended major. In addition to social sciences and humanities, this program also covers natural science. A science requirement includes a hands-on laboratory course.
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Bachelor of Arts, General Program Bachelor
Credits 120
The Bachelor of Arts, General program provides a broad education in Arts, with specialization in two subjects.
The Bachelor of Arts, General program provides a broad education in Arts, with specialization in two subjects.
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Bachelor of Arts, General Studies Bachelor
Credits 120
The Bachelor of Arts, General Studies program provides students with a broad education in arts.
The Bachelor of Arts, General Studies program provides students with a broad education in arts.
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Bachelor of Arts, Major in Criminology Bachelor
Credits 120
Study the criminal mind through courses that look at sociology, psychology and the Canadian legal system. Courses in English,...
Study the criminal mind through courses that look at sociology, psychology and the Canadian legal system. Courses in English, the humanities, math or science, and social sciences round out this degree.
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Bachelor of Arts, Major in English Bachelor
Credits 120
Study poetry and drama from the Renaissance, Victorian and modern eras, along with a look at Canadian literature. Courses...
Study poetry and drama from the Renaissance, Victorian and modern eras, along with a look at Canadian literature. Courses in composition, the humanities, math or science, and social sciences round out this degree.
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Bachelor of Arts, Major in History Bachelor
Credits 120
Study Canadian history both before and after confederation. Then pick areas of interests such as the history of BC...
Study Canadian history both before and after confederation. Then pick areas of interests such as the history of BC or the history of science. Courses in English, math or science, and social sciences round out this degree.
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Bachelor of Arts, Major in Psychology Bachelor
Credits 120
The Psychology major is designed for students wanting to specialize in one discipline (Psychology).
The Psychology major is designed for students wanting to specialize in one discipline (Psychology).
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Bachelor of Arts, Major in Sociology Bachelor
Credits 120
The Bachelor of Arts, Sociology Major program is designed for students wanting to specialize in one discipline (Sociology).
The Bachelor of Arts, Sociology Major program is designed for students wanting to specialize in one discipline (Sociology).
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Bachelor of Design Bachelor
Credits 120
The Bachelor of Design program balances and integrates the academic and studio requirements specific to design with general education requirements.
The Bachelor of Design program balances and integrates the academic and studio requirements specific to design with general education requirements.
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Bachelor of Fine Arts Bachelor
Credits 120
The Bachelor of Fine Art program balances and integrates the academic and studio requirements specific to fine art with...
The Bachelor of Fine Art program balances and integrates the academic and studio requirements specific to fine art with general education requirements.
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Bachelor of General Studies Bachelor
Credits 120
The Bachelor of General Studies is the most flexible program we offer. It accepts a high degree of PLAR...
The Bachelor of General Studies is the most flexible program we offer. It accepts a high degree of PLAR (prior learning assessment and recognition) and transfer credit, making it ideal for those who have taken a non-linear path to education or have extensive work experience. You actually create your own program, as long as you meet the program requirements.
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Bachelor of Music, Performance Bachelor
Credits 15
Acquire a degree that blends general arts knowledge with music performance. English, humanities, math or science and social science...
Acquire a degree that blends general arts knowledge with music performance. English, humanities, math or science and social science round out this degree. The program is open only to graduates or current students of The Vancouver Academy of Music or The Glenn Gould School of The Royal Conservatory of Music.
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Certificate in General Studies Certificate
Credits 30
Courses may be completed entirely on campus or online, or blended, on a full- or part-time schedule — for...
Courses may be completed entirely on campus or online, or blended, on a full- or part-time schedule — for a total of 30 credits. The certificate may only be completed once, and students may complete this program as part of a diploma or degree program.
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Diploma in General Studies Diploma
Credits 60
Courses may be completed entirely on campus or online, or blended, on a full- or part-time schedule — for...
Courses may be completed entirely on campus or online, or blended, on a full- or part-time schedule — for a total of 60 credits. The certificate may only be completed once, and students may complete this program as part of a diploma or degree program.
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Minor in English, History, Psychology and Sociology Degree
Credits 0
You can pursue one or more minors in English, history, psychology and sociology in all Arts degree programs and...
You can pursue one or more minors in English, history, psychology and sociology in all Arts degree programs and in the Bachelor of General Studies (BGS). These minors are available in most TRU degree programs. For a minor, you must include in the 120 credits required for the degree at least 30 credits and no more than 42 credits in your minor area.
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Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Liberal Arts Certificate
Credits 15
Undertake studies that engage learning within the community, through to an international context. Learning opportunities include Study Abroad, directed...
Undertake studies that engage learning within the community, through to an international context. Learning opportunities include Study Abroad, directed studies and readings, service learning and field schools — in consultation with a program advisor. You can use an interdisciplinary approach, with up to 60 per cent of requirements taken outside of Arts.
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Bob Gaglardi School of Business and Economics

Accounting Technician Diploma Diploma
Credits 60
Acquire the skills you need to find employment with public accounting firms working on files and basic tax returns;...
Acquire the skills you need to find employment with public accounting firms working on files and basic tax returns; as payroll, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and general accounting clerks in larger organizations; or as bookkeepers with smaller business enterprises.

Use your diploma to expand your professional opportunities by laddering into a bachelor's degree and eventually work toward the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation.
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Advanced Certificate in Management Studies Certificate
Credits 15
This program is ideal for anyone working in or preparing for a supervisory, leadership or management position. You will...
This program is ideal for anyone working in or preparing for a supervisory, leadership or management position. You will learn how to make decisions, communicate effectively and be a good leader.
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Advanced Diploma in Management Diploma
Credits 45
The program is designed for students with post-secondary diplomas (not necessarily in a business or management field) or equivalent...
The program is designed for students with post-secondary diplomas (not necessarily in a business or management field) or equivalent and a minimum of two years’ work experience. The focus is on applied studies and real-world cases. Work independently and collaboratively to demonstrate industry-recognized standards of excellence. The resulting skill set enables you to begin entrepreneurial ventures or to assume more senior management roles
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Bachelor of Commerce Bachelor
Credits 0
This program is not currently accepting applications. The Bachelor of Commerce degree provides you with the business and management...
This program is not currently accepting applications. The Bachelor of Commerce degree provides you with the business and management skills necessary to become an effective manager and leader in a dynamic and global economy. The program blends a practical management education with a broad general education.
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Bachelor of Real Estate Management Bachelor
Credits 120
This program is offered by the UBC Sauder School...
This program is offered by the UBC Sauder School of Business Real Estate Division in collaboration with TRU and the Real Estate Institute of British Columbia (REIBC).

The Bachelor of Real Estate Management program allows you, as a member of the real estate community, to continue your career while advancing your formal general and business education.

Graduation from this program may help you to meet entrance requirements for the Master of Business Administration program. It will allow you to meet various professional accreditation requirements, such as yearly professional development requirements.
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Business Skills Certificate Certificate
Credits 15
Start with core writing and technology skills, then move on to either an array of electives or concentrate on...
Start with core writing and technology skills, then move on to either an array of electives or concentrate on supervision and management.

Build on this certificate for a Certificate in Management Studies. The program counts for full credit toward the Achievement in Business Competencies (Blue Seal) program. If you are a certified tradesperson, you may use the Certificate in Business Skills as an option when applying for Blue Seal certification.
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Certificate in Entrepreneurial Skills Certificate
Credits 15
Develop core knowledge in management, accounting and marketing. Then choose an elective such as business math, commercial law or...
Develop core knowledge in management, accounting and marketing. Then choose an elective such as business math, commercial law or e-commerce.

This program is designed for owner/operators with few employees.
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Certificate in Entrepreneurial Skills 2 Certificate
Credits 15
After completing Certificate in Entrepreneurial Skills 1, continue to develop core knowledge in management and accounting. Then choose two...
After completing Certificate in Entrepreneurial Skills 1, continue to develop core knowledge in management and accounting. Then choose two electives such as financial management or retail marketing.

This program is designed for both small- and medium-sized enterprises.
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Certificate in Management Studies Certificate
Credits 30
Take your work experience or qualification in a technical field to the management level. Combine broad management skills with...
Take your work experience or qualification in a technical field to the management level. Combine broad management skills with study in a specific business field.

Earn this certificate by building on the 15-credit Certificate in Business Skills or by completing 30 credits of coursework.
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Diploma in Management Studies Diploma
Credits 60
Choose from three specializations: accounting, human resources and marketing. Required courses give you a grounding in accounting, management, communications...
Choose from three specializations: accounting, human resources and marketing. Required courses give you a grounding in accounting, management, communications and marketing. Electives allow you to take up five arts and science courses.

If you have already completed the Certificate in Management Studies, you need only 30 more credits to earn this diploma.
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Graduate Diploma in Business Administration Graduate Diploma
Credits 0
Take six courses in the major foundational subject areas of business administration.
Take six courses in the major foundational subject areas of business administration.
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Master of Business Administration Master
Credits 0
The MBA focuses on producing managers and leaders who can meet challenges with an emphasis on decision making in...
The MBA focuses on producing managers and leaders who can meet challenges with an emphasis on decision making in an uncertain environment.
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Master of Environmental Economics and Management Master
Credits 0
Attain a broad knowledge of the business environment, advanced management skills and specialized knowledge in environmental economics and sustainability.
Attain a broad knowledge of the business environment, advanced management skills and specialized knowledge in environmental economics and sustainability.
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Master of Science in Environmental Economics and Management Master
Credits 0
Attain a broad knowledge of the business environment, advanced management skills and specialized knowledge in environmental economics and sustainability.
Attain a broad knowledge of the business environment, advanced management skills and specialized knowledge in environmental economics and sustainability.
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Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Commerce Certificate
Credits 15
Graduates of recognized degrees in business or commerce can choose from one of five concentrations: accounting, finance, human resources,...
Graduates of recognized degrees in business or commerce can choose from one of five concentrations: accounting, finance, human resources, leadership and marketing.
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Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Commerce Diploma
Credits Nine
Graduates of recognized degrees in fields other than business or commerce can choose from one of six concentrations: accounting,...
Graduates of recognized degrees in fields other than business or commerce can choose from one of six concentrations: accounting, finance, general management, human resources, leadership and marketing. Build from core knowledge in accounting, management, commercial law and economics.
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Education and Social Work

Adult Basic Education Preparation
Credits 0
Prepare for post-secondary studies and the workplace.
Prepare for post-secondary studies and the workplace.
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Graduate Certificate in Online Teaching and Learning Certificate
Credits 15
This certificate is designed to provide educators (K-12 teachers,post-secondary instructors and trainers) in BC and elsewhere, with a solid...
This certificate is designed to provide educators (K-12 teachers,post-secondary instructors and trainers) in BC and elsewhere, with a solid foundation in the technical and pedagogical expertise required to effectively use education technology in the classroom, in distributed learning environments and in online education.

To qualify for an additional salary level in BC, you need 30 or more senior- or graduate-level credits. Gain 15 of those credits through this credential.

Graduation from this program increases your marketability in the public school environment. Get noticed and get hired.
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Human Services Diploma Diploma
Credits 0
Prepare for a helping career with agencies that provide support and assistance to individuals coping with economic disadvantage, mental...
Prepare for a helping career with agencies that provide support and assistance to individuals coping with economic disadvantage, mental health issues, developmental, gender and diversity issues, addictions and other challenges.
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Master of Education Master
Credits 30
Designed for the working professional involved in Education, training or employee development,this program is structured for full- or part–time...
Designed for the working professional involved in Education, training or employee development,this program is structured for full- or part–time study.
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Social Service Worker Certificate Certificate
Credits 33
Acquire relational and communication skills for practice with individuals in distress and involved in programs in human service agencies....
Acquire relational and communication skills for practice with individuals in distress and involved in programs in human service agencies. Learn to exhibit compassion, non-judgment, intercultural awareness and ethical attributes. This program includes a field education course in a community social service agency. Graduates work in child and youth care settings, schools, transition houses, group homes, peer counselling programs and other social service agencies.
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Nursing

Health Care Assistant Certificate Certificate
Credits 26

Learn the core values and beliefs foundational to health care assistant practice:

  • Respect and value of all human beings.
  • Appreciation for...

Learn the core values and beliefs foundational to health care assistant practice:

  • Respect and value of all human beings.
  • Appreciation for independence within complex health challenges.
  • Holistic definition of health.
  • The right to comprehensive health care.
  • Caring as a genuine concern of another person.
  • The family as the foundation of society.

The curriculum is organized around the concepts of caring, safety, critical thinking and a professional approach to practice. It builds from your self-reflection on interpersonal communication skills, then incorporates anatomy, physiology and common health challenges — including cognitive challenges.

You demonstrate your understanding initially in laboratory practice and later in both residential care and community-based settings.

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Interprofessional Mental Health Practice Certificate Certificate
Credits 15
Build the knowledge and competencies needed to work with clients who have mental health issues as you gain expertise...
Build the knowledge and competencies needed to work with clients who have mental health issues as you gain expertise in mental health training in this evidence- and practice-based program.

Enhance the positive impact you make on the health and well-being of clients and people in your community. Learn intervention strategies and how to build protective factors in vulnerable populations.
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Interprofessional Substance Use Practice Certificate Certificate
Credits 15
Learn through a blend of online and practicum courses in this evidence- and practice-based program. You will gain demonstrable...
Learn through a blend of online and practicum courses in this evidence- and practice-based program. You will gain demonstrable expertise in the area of substance use practice.

Enhance the positive impact you make on the health and well-being of clients and people in your community. Learn to develop and demonstrate foundational and innovative competency in prevention and treatment practice.

This program is ideal for you if you are a fourth-year nursing student or currently employed in a setting such as health, criminal justice, social services and treatment facilities and seek to build the knowledge and competencies needed to work with clients who have substance use issues.

With the exception of its practicum component (which must be taken in BC), the program is available to applicants who meet the admission requirements (see below) and are residing in Canada, who either are Canadian citizens or else have a current student or working visa.

Typical completion time is within two years. Courses are sequential and taken one at a time. To stay in good standing with the program, you must take a minimum of one course every year.
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Return to Registered Nurse Practice Certificate Certificate
Credits 17
This program is for:
  • Individuals required by the BC College of Nurses and Midwives to complete courses, or a program...
This program is for:
  • Individuals required by the BC College of Nurses and Midwives to complete courses, or a program of study, to either gain reinstatement of licensure or initial registration in BC
  • Those who have previously been registered by a Canadian provincial regulatory authority or international regulatory authority

If you are not sure whether you qualify for this program, please request an RRNP information package from oladmissions@tru.ca.

The courses (theoretical, laboratory and practice) reacquaint you with the substantive knowledge, values and skills to support nursing practice decisions and actions within the context of an evolving Canadian health care system. In addition, the courses inspire and support professional growth, which is integral to the maintenance of continuing competency.

The essential supplies and skills required to complete the program include: the ability to participate in university-level courses; regular access to a computer; and the ability to engage in online learning using a learning management system. The lab and practicum courses require appropriate nursing attire and access to a stethoscope.

The first three courses are delivered in a paced cohort model with course offerings in fall, winter and spring terms to allow for completion of the certificate in one to three years. You may begin the program in any term you choose once your program application has been approved.

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Seniors Living Management Certificate Certificate
Credits 23
Take business courses approved by the Gaglardi School of Business and Economics and health courses approved by the School...
Take business courses approved by the Gaglardi School of Business and Economics and health courses approved by the School of Nursing, along with three courses (one theory and two practice courses) specific to management of seniors' residences.

Gain knowledge about Canada's aging population from a healthy aging perspective. Acquire skills to successfully work within the requirements of public health standards, service industry standards (including housekeeping, laundry and food services), and in partnerships with regional health authorities.

You are introduced to human resource management, sales and marketing, and risk management (human and financial). Gain insight into the scope of managerial oversight required when in a position of responsibility in the industry.
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Science

Anesthesia Assistant Diploma Diploma
Credits 29
This program is for respiratory therapists or registered nurses who have critical care experience. It consists of eight core...
This program is for respiratory therapists or registered nurses who have critical care experience. It consists of eight core theory courses followed by a clinical practicum. You will be able to fulfil the role of anesthesia assistant as defined and approved by the Canadian Anesthesiologists' Society.

This program was developed to meet the graduate competency requirements identified in the CSRT National Educational Competency Framework for Anesthesia Assistants in accordance with provincial regulations and recommendations from the Canadian Anesthesiologists’ Society.

As of Aug 2022, this program has received Full Accreditation status from the Canadian Society of Respiratory Therapists Accreditation Services. Next accreditation 2027
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Associate of Science Associate Degree
Credits 60
Take a broad academic education that includes English, math, calculus, lab-based science courses, natural science and engineering science. Your...
Take a broad academic education that includes English, math, calculus, lab-based science courses, natural science and engineering science. Your lab-based science choice can be in biology, chemistry, geography, geology or physics.
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Bachelor of Computing Science Bachelor
Credits 120
The Bachelor of Computing Science (BCS) degree program consists of general and concentrated computing coursework.
The Bachelor of Computing Science (BCS) degree program consists of general and concentrated computing coursework.
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Bachelor of Health Science Bachelor
Credits 120
If you are a health-care diploma student or graduate, you can broaden your education and enhance your skills, knowledge,...
If you are a health-care diploma student or graduate, you can broaden your education and enhance your skills, knowledge, career options and academic credentials. Build the academic foundation needed for select graduate programs. Maximize recognition of university credits you have earned in course work for your diploma.
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Bachelor of Science, Biology/Life Sciences Bachelor
Credits 120
The Bachelor of Science (BSc), Major program is designed for you if you want to specialize in biology/life sciences....
The Bachelor of Science (BSc), Major program is designed for you if you want to specialize in biology/life sciences. Communication skills and computer literacy are promoted, and you have the option to do one directed studies course.

Many BSc graduates are highly successful and are pursuing careers in medicine, veterinary medicine, medical genetics, elementary and high school teaching, resource management, high tech industry, biotechnology, optometry, pharmacy, dentistry, wildlife management, respiratory therapy and more.
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Bachelor of Science, General Program Bachelor
Credits 120
The Bachelor of Science, General Program concentrates study in one subject to the level required for a minor. No...
The Bachelor of Science, General Program concentrates study in one subject to the level required for a minor. No labs are required.
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Certificate in Information Technology Certificate
Credits 30
Start with core knowledge in supervision, management, composition, professional writing and introductory IT electives, then take a non-computing elective.
Start with core knowledge in supervision, management, composition, professional writing and introductory IT electives, then take a non-computing elective.
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Information Technology and Management Diploma Diploma
Credits 30
Start with core knowledge in accounting, communications, management and organizational behaviour, then move on to IT and business electives.
Start with core knowledge in accounting, communications, management and organizational behaviour, then move on to IT and business electives.
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Medical Laboratory Assistant Certificate Certificate
Credits 18
The program consists of five theory courses, a five-day workshop, and a clinical practicum conducted in a hospital or...
The program consists of five theory courses, a five-day workshop, and a clinical practicum conducted in a hospital or laboratory under criteria developed by TRU. You are trained to perform the practical components of collecting, sorting and preparing patient samples for further testing and analysis. The majority of training is completed online.
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Medical Laboratory Assistant National Certificate Program Certificate
Credits 18
The program consists of five theory courses, a five-day workshop, and a clinical practicum conducted in a hospital or...
The program consists of five theory courses, a five-day workshop, and a clinical practicum conducted in a hospital or laboratory. You are trained to perform the practical components of collecting, sorting and preparing patient samples for further testing and analysis. The majority of training is completed online.

This program is accredited by Accreditation Canada. Graduates are eligible to write the Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science national exam for Medical Laboratory Assistants.
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Polysomnography Certificate Certificate
Credits 12
Polysomnography technologists perform overnight sleep assessments used to diagnose various sleep disorders. The program consists of three theory courses...
Polysomnography technologists perform overnight sleep assessments used to diagnose various sleep disorders. The program consists of three theory courses completed by distance, followed by a two-week clinical component held in a board-approved sleep facility. Or (in BC or elsewhere in Canada). Program capacity may be limited due to the availability of clinical placements.

Graduates are eligible to write the Certified Polysomnographic Technician exam under Pathway 3 eligibility. The CPSGT is an entry-level certification earned by individuals new to the sleep field. It is time limited, meaning that certificate holders must earn the Registered Polysomnographic Technologist credential within three years or lose the CPSGT designation.

Program graduates with nine months' work experience may write the RPSGT exam under Pathway 4 eligibility.

This program is approved by the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists https://www.brpt.org/.
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Pre-Health Science Certificate Certificate
Credits 27
Achieve the laddering credentials you need in all program areas (academic, professional, technical and trades) to complete a degree...
Achieve the laddering credentials you need in all program areas (academic, professional, technical and trades) to complete a degree or a professional career credential. Core knowledge includes anatomy, English composition, pathophysiology, pharmacology and psychology.
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Veterinary Technology Diploma Diploma
Credits 0
The Veterinary Technology Diploma program trains individuals for employment as professionals in the field of veterinary medicine. The three-year...
The Veterinary Technology Diploma program trains individuals for employment as professionals in the field of veterinary medicine. The three-year online program is for those already working in a veterinary clinical setting.
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Trades and Technology

Bachelor of Technology Bachelor
Credits 63
Learn strong communication and relationship skills and become a capable leader in a culturally diverse work place. You will...
Learn strong communication and relationship skills and become a capable leader in a culturally diverse work place. You will understand how to safely and sustainably lead projects to success in environments that are continuously changing technologically and increasingly global in nature.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Technology program also have the option of using many of their courses as prerequisites towards TRU's Masters of Business Administration.
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Bachelor of Technology, Trades and Technology Leadership Bachelor
Credits 120
Learn the knowledge and skills necessary to become a team leader, supervisor or manager in a changing business and...
Learn the knowledge and skills necessary to become a team leader, supervisor or manager in a changing business and technical environment. Subjects covered include communications, management principles, motivation and strategic thinking.
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Water Treatment Operations Certificate Certificate
Credits 45
The program covers the theory required to safely operate and troubleshoot treatment processes, as well as mechanical, electrical and...
The program covers the theory required to safely operate and troubleshoot treatment processes, as well as mechanical, electrical and instrumentation systems as they apply to both water-treatment and water-distribution systems.

Learn about water sources and factors influencing water quality, and the diverse legislation dealing with the treatment of both water and wastewater as it relates to the protection of public health and the environment.
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