Educational Advising and Planning
This information pertains to distance learning through Thompson Rivers University, Open Learning (TRU-OL). If you require information about on-campus learning at TRU Kamloops, click here.
View the TRU-OL calendar of programs and courses
General Educational Advising Services
Program Advising
English and Mathematics Assessments
Other Services for TRU-OL Students
General educational advising services are available for prospective students considering registering for TRU-OL courses or applying for programs with TRU-OL.
Program advising is provided when students are admitted to programs offered by TRU-OL.
General Educational Advising Services
Student Services advisors can answer questions concerning prerequisites and entrance requirements to specific programs, transfer credit, assessment of informal credit, preliminary program planning, course sequencing and course selection. Information is provided for students who need help with study skills or other education-related concerns. Contact Student Services.
Information is provided about distance learning to help students start and continue successfully as distance learners. A self-test is included that prospective students can take to assist in determining if distance learning fits their lifestyle.
Career planning resources are also provided to assist students with making decisions about areas of study.
Students considering completing a program through TRU-OL should identify a program of interest when contacting Student Services to:
- Review and confirm educational goals.
- Clarify the process for receiving credit for previous formal and non-formal learning.
- Confirm how to apply for program admission.
Program Advising
After a student has received confirmation of program admission (including evaluation details), a program advisor will be available to assist with required course selection and will provide additional assistance through to program graduation.
In some cases, students may use certificate, diploma, or associate degree studies toward a university degree.
Another option is Prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR), which includes: course challenge; portfolio assessment; and credit bank awards for pre-assessed training offered by employers or other organizations. Program advisors can help you explore these options.
TRU-OL does not offer all courses which are required for program completion. In some cases, students can take courses at other post-secondary institutions with a Letter of Permission to complete program requirements.
English and Mathematics Assessments
For students wanting to upgrade their English or mathematics skills, voluntary assessments are available to help determine skill levels.
Contact Student Services for more information.
Other Services for TRU-OL Students
Financial Aid and Awards
The Financial Aid and Awards service at TRU helps students access institutional and government financial assistance for part-time and full-time students. Students should plan ahead to ensure optimal timing for their educational plans.
First Nations Learning Centres
TRU-OL is assisting community-based First Nations Learning Centres across the province. At these centres, First Nations students study Adult Basic Education (ABE) upgrading courses and programs, business and other college-level courses and some university-level courses.
TRU-OL offers courses in First Nations Studies.
Library Services
Library Services are also available to registered TRU-OL students.
Services for Students with Disabilities
Students with disabilities have access to Disability Services to discuss and implement available services.