Start your interdisciplinary journey, exploring topics such as labour history, work organization, and the role of women in unions—all tailored to resonate with trade union leaders and members. With a focus on broadening your perspectives on social and global affairs, our labour studies online program is designed to enrich your critical thinking skills while preparing you for a diverse range of career opportunities.
This program will be of particular interest to trade union leaders and members. Course offerings include:
labour history
work organization
women and unions
the theory and practice of trade unions
Athabasca University’s labour studies program is the only program of its kind in Canada that is available entirely via distance education and online.
Admission requirements
There are no formal admission requirements for the 4-year program. All you need is to be 16 or older. You can enrol anytime and start right away, regardless of your previous education.
Program details
Overview
The Bachelor of Arts strengthens critical and creative thinking through a broad range of social, political, and cultural studies. The program is designed to:
broaden your perspective on local and global affairs
encourage community and social involvement
prepare you for lifelong learning and occupational diversity
Routes and options
The Bachelor of Arts, Labour Studies Major is an online, 4-year degree program. There are no set start dates – you can enrol at any time and register for courses right away.
Bachelor of Arts, Labour Studies Major (4-year online degree)
A 4-year degree fully prepares students for most graduate programs.
The 4-year BA program allows you to pursue either a double major or a minor.
Double majors must meet the requirements for both majors, which may restrict course selection or require additional credits above the 120 required for the BA.
You should talk to an academic advisor about your program and courses if you’re considering a double major.
To earn a minor you must complete 30 credits in that subject area.
List of minors:
Anthropology
Canadian Studies
English
French
Global Studies
History
Humanities
Inclusive Education
Philosophy
Political Economy
Political Science
Psychology
Public Administration
Sociology
Women's and Gender Studies
Note: AU does not offer an Honours BA.
Completion times
Finish this program in as little as 4 years of full-time study, or work at your own pace and take as long as you need. There is no time limit for completion. The program may be completed faster if transfer credit is applied toward your degree.
How to apply
You can apply to AU online, anytime. Once you’ve completed the online application form and paid the one-time general application fee (and transfer credit evaluation fee, if applicable), you’re officially an AU student and can start registering in courses.
If you transfer credit, you must complete a minimum of 30 credits at AU.
Tuition and fees
Once you have paid the initial application fee, tuition is pay-as-you-go for each course registration. Course fees vary depending on your location and other factors.
Estimated program costs are available in the Calendar.
Financial aid and awards
We're dedicated to supporting your academic goals and committed to helping you overcome financial barriers by providing many funding and award options.
Learn the dynamics of work, industry, and labour relations with our specialized courses in Labour Studies. Courses draw on history, sociology, political economy, women's studies, industrial relations, and other fields. Starting with foundational courses like Introduction to Labour Studies and progressing to advanced topics such as the History of Canadian Labour, our curriculum is designed to offer a well-rounded, insightful education, with flexibility to transfer up to 30 credits to meet major requirements.
To complete the program you will need to fulfill all the general requirements of the Bachelor of Arts, plus those specific to your major, minor or concentration.
Our program course plans can give you an idea of what courses you need to finish this program, and how to plan the order you’ll take them in. If you’re feeling stuck, our academic advisors can help.
Below are some of the courses that our students take in this program. Please consult an advisor to confirm any course planning, as some of these courses may not apply to you.
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Focus areas
Career options
With our online degree in Labour Studies, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern workplace. Whether you aspire to be a trade union leader, a policy advocate, or a researcher focusing on labour issues, this degree offers you the academic and practical insights needed to make meaningful contributions in various professional settings.
Some top careers in the labour field are:
labour/union organizer
affirmative action co-ordinator
placement manager
union staff representative
training specialist
personnel consultant
conciliator
employment counsellor
human resources administrator
union labour educator
trade union officer
Resources and links
Additional information that you need to know about AU and this program.