About
The Foundational Pathways in Arts and Science certificate is designed to help you earn a meaningful credential while building a strong academic base for whatever comes next, whether that's continuing into a degree program or exploring other interests. You'll take introductory courses across the humanities, social sciences, and sciences, giving you both flexibility and direction as you discover what inspires you.
- One-year certificate
- Full- or part-time program
- You can enter this program directly from high school
- You can complete this program at the Prince Albert campus, at one of USask's off-campus locations and/or online
What you will learn
Through this certificate you'll complete a range of Arts and Science courses at the Saskatoon campus, the Prince Albert Campus, or at regional college locations. You'll strengthen your writing, quantitative reasoning, and critical thinking skills while gaining the freedom to explore areas that excite you, from astronomy and politics to art and culture. You can complete this certificate on its own or use it as a starting point for a degree program.
ENG 113.3: Literature and Composition Reading Narrative
An introduction to the major forms of narrative literature in English. In addition to learning the tools of critical analysis, students will study and practice composition.
POLS 110.3: Understanding our Globalized World
Today, the lives of individuals and communities are increasingly shaped by political, social and economic forces that are of global scope. This course examines the complex relationship between the "local" and the "global" by exploring the processes of globalization and the manner in which these affect the prospects of diverse societies around the world. It explores these dynamics in issues such as international law, global governance institutions, non-governmental organizations, terrorism and security, global public health, environmental policy, international trade, foreign aid and development, and the experiences of Indigenous peoples, migrants, and refugees.
INDG 107.3: Introduction to Canadian Indigenous Studies
This course aims to develop critical reading, writing, and thinking skills and provide the background necessary for advanced Indigenous Studies courses. Through course lectures and seminar discussions this course presents an overview of Aboriginal societies across Saskatchewan and Canada by linking processes of the past with contemporary issues.
BIOL 120.3: The Nature of Life
An introduction to the underlying fundamental aspects of living systems: covering cell biology, genetics and the evolutionary processes which lead to complex, multi-cellular life forms.
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for all programs.
Supportive learning environment
USask's College of Arts and Science offers a welcoming environment for all students beginning their university journey—from new high school graduates to mature students. You'll find advisors, instructors, and learning supports that help you figure out your path as you go.
Flexibility and choice
This certificate is built to work for you. With dozens of course options, you can tailor your program to your interests while completing requirements common across many Arts and Science degrees.
Accessible across Saskatchewan
With classes available in Saskatoon, Prince Albert, regional colleges, and flexible learning formats, this certificate is achievable no matter where you live in the province.
A credential that matters
Whether you are preparing for another degree such as Nursing or Education, or simply exploring your options, this certificate ensures you receive recognition for your academic progress.
Careers
The Foundational Pathways in Arts and Science certificate supports many future paths because it builds skills essential for all Arts and Science degrees, as well as programs offered by other colleges. After completing the certificate, students often continue into bachelor's programs that lead to careers in areas such as:
- Community health and social services
- Education and youth engagement
- Environmental and natural sciences
- Arts, culture, and media
- Public policy, government, and community governance
- Technology, data, and research fields
- Non-profits and community organizations
This certificate helps you explore options, discover what you enjoy, and build the academic confidence needed to move forward.
Tuition estimates
| Canadian students | International students | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $822.60 per 3 credit unit class | $3,981.30 per 3 credit unit class |
| Student fees | $1,308.24 per year | $1,308.24 per year |
Tuition will vary depending on the type and number of classes you take in a year. This estimate reflects a typical amount you could expect to pay per class (2025-2026 Canadian dollar rates).
Student fees are used to fund specific student benefits, including health, vision and dental coverage, a bus pass, recreational programs and fitness centre access. This estimate reflects the price you would pay if you are a full-time student.
The cost of books and supplies varies widely depending on the courses you choose. It is recommended that you budget between $1,500-$2,500 for this program.
Program options
The Foundational Pathways in Arts and Science certificate is offered by the University of Saskatchewan's College of Arts and Science. You may earn the certificate on its own, concurrently with a degree program from this college or others, or after completing a degree.
If you are already enrolled at USask, consult your academic advisor regarding enrolling in this program.
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for all programs.
International students:
-
The College of Arts and Science strongly recommends that international students do not enrol in a certificate program alone, as course offerings per term and program length may not be sufficient to maintain eligibility for a study permit, on/off-campus work permit, or post-graduation work permit when taken as a stand-alone program.
If you are interested in pursuing a certificate program, plan to enrol in your certificate of interest only alongside a degree. Learn more by visiting the International Student Guide and connect with an academic advisor if you are interested in adding a certificate to your degree program after you become a student!
- International Student Guide
- Academic advising
Admission requirements
Your information
Admission requirements depend on your situation; please tell us about yourself.
Application deadlines
| Start term | Application deadline | International deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Winter January 2026 |
Dec. 1, 2025 Documents due: Dec. 15, 2025 |
Sept. 1, 2025 Documents due: Oct. 1, 2025 |
|
Spring May 2026 |
April 1, 2026 Documents due: May 1, 2026 |
Feb. 1, 2026 Documents due: March 1, 2026 |
|
Summer July 2026 |
May 1, 2026 Documents due: June 1, 2026 |
March 1, 2026 Documents due: April 1, 2026 |
|
Fall September 2026 |
July 15, 2026 Documents due: Aug. 1, 2026 |
May 1, 2026 Documents due: June 1, 2026 |
|
Winter January 2027 |
Dec. 1, 2026 Documents due: Dec. 15, 2026 |
Sept. 1, 2026 Documents due: Oct. 1, 2026 |
Ready to apply?
If you are a current USask student, consult your academic advisor about enrolling in this program.
To apply to this program as a new student, create an admissions account and apply for admission to any undergraduate program in the College of Arts and Science. When you are ready to submit your application, you will be assessed a non-refundable application fee of $120 CAD. After you are admitted, declare your plans to the college.
Related programs
If you are looking for graduate level (master's or Ph.D.) programs please consult our graduate students' website.
If you are interested in more information about this certificate, please contact student-advice@artsandscience.usask.ca