Programs Open Learning Thompson Rivers University
Open Learning (OL) programs are your best choice for an online program that fits your lifestyle. OL has the support you need to complete your program and your Open Learning Faculty Members are a talented group of educators and researchers eager to support you.
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Adventure, Culinary Arts and Tourism
Bachelor of Tourism Management
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120The Bachelor of Tourism Management program is designed for graduates of recognized two-year diploma programs... more +
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. less -
Event Management Certificate
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 18Arts
Advanced Certificate in Liberal Arts
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 30Study in three areas: humanities (including English), the social sciences, and science — with an... more +
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. less -
Associate of Arts
Credential: Associate Degree | Credits: 60Take a wide range of courses balanced with in-depth study in arts. Requirements are flexible... more +
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. less -
Bachelor of Arts, General Studies
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120The 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. less -
Bachelor of Arts, General program
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120Bachelor of Arts, Major in Criminology
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120Study the criminal mind through courses that look at sociology, psychology and the Canadian legal... more +
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. less -
Bachelor of Arts, Major in English
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120Study poetry and drama from the Renaissance, Victorian and modern eras, along with a look... more +
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. less -
Bachelor of Arts, Major in History
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120Study Canadian history both before and after confederation. Then pick areas of interests such as... more +
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. less -
Bachelor of Arts, Major in Psychology
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120The 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). less -
Bachelor of Arts, Major in Sociology
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120Bachelor of Design
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120Bachelor of Fine Arts
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120Bachelor of General Studies
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120The Bachelor of General Studies is the most flexible program we offer. It accepts a... more +
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. less -
Bachelor of Music, Performance
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 15Acquire a degree that blends general arts knowledge with music performance. English, humanities, math or... more +
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. less -
Certificate in General Studies
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 30Courses may be completed entirely on campus or online, or blended, on a full- or... more +
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. less -
Diploma in General Studies
Credential: Diploma | Credits: 60Courses may be completed entirely on campus or online, or blended, on a full- or... more +
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. less -
Minor in English, History, Psychology and Sociology
Credential: Degree | Credits: 0You can pursue one or more minors in English, history, psychology and sociology in all... more +
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. less -
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Liberal Arts
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 15Undertake studies that engage learning within the community, through to an international context. Learning opportunities... more +
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. less -
Bob Gaglardi School of Business and Economics
Accounting Technician Diploma
Credential: Diploma | Credits: 60Acquire the skills you need to find employment with public accounting firms working on files... more +
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. less -
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. less -
Advanced Certificate in Management Studies
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 15This program is ideal for anyone working in or preparing for a supervisory, leadership or... more +
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. less -
Advanced Diploma in Management
Credential: Diploma | Credits: 45The program is designed for students with post-secondary diplomas (not necessarily in a business or... more +
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 less -
Bachelor of Real Estate Management
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120This program is offered by the UBC Sauder School of Business Real Estate Division in... more +
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. less -
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. less -
Business Skills Certificate
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 15Start with core writing and technology skills, then move on to either an array of... more +
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. less -
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. less -
Certificate in Entrepreneurial Skills
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 15Develop core knowledge in management, accounting and marketing. Then choose an elective such as business... more +
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. less -
This program is designed for owner/operators with few employees. less -
Certificate in Entrepreneurial Skills 2
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 15After completing Certificate in Entrepreneurial Skills 1, continue to develop core knowledge in management and... more +
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. less -
This program is designed for both small- and medium-sized enterprises. less -
Certificate in Management Studies
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 30Take your work experience or qualification in a technical field to the management level. Combine... more +
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. less -
Earn this certificate by building on the 15-credit Certificate in Business Skills or by completing 30 credits of coursework. less -
Diploma in Management Studies
Credential: Diploma | Credits: 60Choose from three specializations: accounting, human resources and marketing. Required courses give you a grounding... more +
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. less -
If you have already completed the Certificate in Management Studies, you need only 30 more credits to earn this diploma. less -
Graduate Diploma in Business Administration
Credential: Graduate Diploma | Credits: 0Take six courses in the major foundational subject areas of business administration.
Take six courses in the major foundational subject areas of business administration. less -
Master of Business Administration
Credential: Master | Credits: 0Master of Environmental Economics and Management
Credential: Master | Credits: 0Master of Science in Environmental Economics and Management
Credential: Master | Credits: 0Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Commerce
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 15Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Commerce
Credential: Diploma | Credits: NineGraduates of recognized degrees in fields other than business or commerce can choose from one... more +
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. less -
Adult Basic Education
Credential: Preparation | Credits: 0Prepare for post-secondary studies and the workplace.
Prepare for post-secondary studies and the workplace. less -
Graduate Certificate in Online Teaching and Learning
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 15This certificate is designed to provide educators (K-12 teachers,post-secondary instructors and trainers) in BC and... more +
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. less -
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. less -
Human Services Diploma
Credential: Diploma | Credits: 0Prepare for a helping career with agencies that provide support and assistance to individuals coping... more +
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. less -
Master of Education
Credential: Master | Credits: 30Social Service Worker Certificate
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 33Acquire relational and communication skills for practice with individuals in distress and involved in programs... more +
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. less -
Nursing
Health Care Assistant Certificate
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 26The Open Learning HCA program is not currently open to international students.TRU is working on... more +
The Open Learning HCA program is not currently open to international students.
TRU is working on an on-campus HCA program for international students. Keep watch on this page for any updates!
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.
less -Return to Registered Nurse Practice Certificate
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 17This program is for:Individuals required by the BC College of Nurses and Midwives to complete... more +
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.
less -Science
Anesthesia Assistant Diploma
Credential: Diploma | Credits: 29This program is for respiratory therapists or registered nurses who have critical care experience. It... more +
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 less -
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 less -
Associate of Science
Credential: Associate Degree | Credits: 60Take a broad academic education that includes English, math, calculus, lab-based science courses, natural science... more +
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. less -
Bachelor of Computing Science
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120The Bachelor of Computing Science (BCS) degree offers a comprehensive foundation that prepares graduates to... more +
The Bachelor of Computing Science (BCS) degree offers a comprehensive foundation that prepares graduates to adapt to new technologies and ideas spanning the range from theory to programming. In particular, the program:
- Prepares students to meet the IT needs of business, government, healthcare, schools and other kinds of organizations;
- Allows students to pursue further education including graduate programs.
Bachelor of Health Science
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120If you are a health-care diploma student or graduate, you can broaden your education and... more +
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. less -
Bachelor of Science, Biology/Life Sciences
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120The Bachelor of Science (BSc), Major program is designed for you if you want to... more +
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. less -
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. less -
Bachelor of Science, General program
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120Certificate in Information Technology
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 30Information Technology and Management Diploma
Credential: Diploma | Credits: 30Medical Laboratory Assistant Certificate
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 18The program consists of five theory courses and a clinical practicum conducted in a hospital... more +
The program consists of five theory courses 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. less -
Medical Laboratory Assistant National Certificate Program
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 18The program consists of five theory courses and a clinical practicum conducted in a hospital... more +
The program consists of five theory courses 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. less -
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. less -
Polysomnography Certificate
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 12Polysomnography technologists perform overnight sleep assessments used to diagnose various sleep disorders. The program consists... more +
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/. less -
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/. less -
Pre-Health Science Certificate
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 27Achieve the laddering credentials you need in all program areas (academic, professional, technical and trades)... more +
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. less -
Veterinary Technology Diploma
Credential: Diploma | Credits: 0The Veterinary Technology Diploma program trains individuals for employment as professionals in the field of... more +
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. The program is online with a one-week, onsite wet lab during the third year of studies. The average tuition per year is $6,000 - 7,500 (subject to change). less -
Trades and Technology
Bachelor of Technology
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 63Learn strong communication and relationship skills and become a capable leader in a culturally diverse... more +
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. less -
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. less -
Bachelor of Technology, Trades and Technology Leadership
Credential: Bachelor | Credits: 120Learn the knowledge and skills necessary to become a team leader, supervisor or manager in... more +
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. less -
Water Treatment Operations Certificate
Credential: Certificate | Credits: 45The program covers the theory required to safely operate and troubleshoot treatment processes, as well... more +
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. less -
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. less -
Financial Support
You can apply for financial assistance if you meet place-of-residence requirements.
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