Your education your way

At Athabasca University, we understand that not everyone can or wants to attend a traditional full-time university.

Open admissions

Everyone should have equal, open access to education. Our open admission policy means that if you’re 16 or older, you will be accepted as a student.

We remove barriers that can limit access to post-secondary achievement, so we admit undergraduate students regardless of:

• location
• age
• income
• culture
• work and family responsibilities
• previous educational background or achievements

Graduate programs require an undergraduate degree. Doctorate programs require a master’s degree. If you meet the non-program student criteria, you can take certain graduate courses without being admitted in the program.

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Flexible scheduling

We believe that your higher education should fit into your life, not the other way around.

Most of our programs are open-ended, allowing you to take as much time as you need to complete your studies. However, some programs have specific time frames for completion, which will be clearly outlined in the program regulations. It's up to you to decide how long it will take to earn your credential within that period.

With over 800 unique courses in various subject areas, we’re sure to have something that meets your needs, and our online courses will always fit your schedule. Our undergraduate and graduate programs and courses are designed to allow you to complete your education whenever and wherever it suits you best.

Explore our programs and courses

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Personalized study options

As an AU student, your responsibilities and perspectives differ from those of in-person university students, and we recognize and accommodate that.

Your classes take place when and where it’s convenient for you. You can take one course at a time or pursue a full-time program. The choice is yours.

AU courses are delivered online as individualized study. AU has developed an online learning checklist to help prepare you for your studies. Unlike the individualized study format, students taking grouped study courses must complete their work on a pre-set schedule with a group of fellow students.

Try our self-assessment tool before enrolling

Embrace online learning

Once you’re registered, we’ll provide everything you need to start your coursework. You will have access to course information, tutorial support, and a learning resources package. Each course syllabus will identify what you will receive and need before beginning your work.

Distance education provides the flexibility for self-paced study and scheduling according to your needs. However, it requires motivation, commitment, and perseverance on your part. To successfully navigate distance education, allocating 10-15 hours per week for each undergraduate course is important. You may need to increase this study time if you want to complete the course more quickly, if the course is particularly challenging, or if you aim to excel in your studies.

Apply to become an AU student