General Studies diploma

The General Studies diploma allows you to meet a variety of needs while at the same time earn a diploma. You may wish to explore various disciplines or take courses to fulfill the first- or second-year requirements for professional programs.

Entrance requirements

B.C. secondary school graduation or equivalent or minimum of 19 years of age before the first day of classes.

Applicants must satisfy the English language proficiency requirement. For details on how this requirement may be met, see English language proficiency requirement in the Admissions section of the calendar.

Note: You must meet the prerequisites for your course(s). Please read the course descriptions to determine which prerequisite courses are needed. If a placement test is required, please make arrangements early in the year to write it.

When to apply

Applications are accepted for entrance to the Fall, Winter, and Summer semesters. For application deadlines, see Specific intake application process.

How to apply

1. Submit the application fee along with your UFV application for admission form to the Admissions and Records (A&R) office. Application forms are available from any A&R or Student Services office. You can also print an application form or apply online at www.ufv.ca/ar/admissions/apply.

Additional documents required for a complete application:
• Proof of graduation (an official high school transcript) if you are under 19 and no longer in school.
• A transcript is recommended for students over 19, in order to meet course prerequisites.

No documents need to be submitted by students currently in Grade 12, until final grades are available at the beginning of August.

You must show that you meet the prerequisites for each course. All prerequisites must be met when you register, except students currently in Grade 12, who will have until the beginning of August to meet high school prerequisites.

If a UFV Placement Test or Upgrading and University Preparation (UUP) assessment score is required, please make arrangements to write it early in the year.

2. Upon admission to UFV, you will be provided with registration information. You should contact a Student Services educational advisor if you require assistance in choosing your courses and planning your timetable.

3. For students under 19 years of age, admission is conditional upon B.C. secondary school graduation. Proof of graduation is due at the end of the first week in August for the Fall semester. BC Grade 12 students can arrange at their schools to have transcripts sent directly to UFV.

Note: It is essential that you provide your Provincial Education Number (PEN) on the application form.

Basis for admission decision

Applicants who meet the entrance requirements will be admitted in order of their application date. This date is set when an application, all required documentation, and the application fee have been submitted.

Fees and additional costs

See the Fees and Other Costs section. Books and additional supplies cost approximately $100 per course.

Location

First-year courses can be completed at either the Abbotsford or Chilliwack campus. There are also a limited set of courses offered at the Mission campus or the Hope regional office. Currently, all courses beyond first-year are offered only at the Abbotsford campus.

Program requirements

The General Studies diploma requires:

• A minimum of 60 credits in courses numbered at the 100-level or higher.
• A minimum of 18 credits in courses numbered at the 200-level or higher.
• No more than 45 credits from any one department.
• At least three credits of any ENGL course numbered at the 100-level or higher or any CMNS course numbered 115 or higher.
• At least three credits in one of the following courses which foster skills in “information management: LIBT 145 or 280; MACS 130 or 240; MATH 104, 106, 108, or 214; CMNS 251; SOC 255/ANTH 255/MACS 255; CRIM 220; PSYC 110; CIS 230; COMP 251.

Student Services educational advisors can assist you in developing an individual educational plan. An advising appointment can help you refine your goals and objectives, understand available choices, and select courses which will apply to your intended program or programs. Please contact Student Services at 604-854-4528 (Abbotsford), 604-795-2808 (Chilliwack), or 604-557-7603 (Mission).

Note: Students may enrol in courses for which they meet the prerequisites. Some courses may be more difficult to gain access to as seats are reserved for students admitted to a particular program. General Studies students may be able to enroll in these courses if there are vacancies in courses after program students have registered. Refer to the course descriptions for prerequisite information.

Continuance

Failure to maintain a 2.0 GPA will result in loss of registration priority for subsequent courses.

Residency

At least 15 credits (25% of the total) must be completed at UFV.

Graduation

A cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher on all courses that count toward the diploma is required for graduation.

Students must submit a Request for Graduation form, and the graduation fee to the Admissions and Records office by April 1. The graduation fee is $25.

Changing programs

If you decide to apply to a different program, see an educational advisor in Student Services for assistance and planning. You may need help with your transition, application, and course selection.

Contact Student Services in Abbotsford at 604-854-4528 or Chilliwack at 604-795-2808.