Success can be defined in many ways. This course will look at ways to maximize your academic, employment and personal success. Academically, topics such as study skills, learning strategies, and time management will be discussed. Problem-solving, goal setting, budgeting, and effective communication will also be discussed in a variety of contexts. Topics relating to success in employment will provide useful career strategies. By combining all of the course topics you will have a better understanding of yourself and how you define your personal success.
In this course, students will be introduced to academic writing styles with a thematic focus on current issues. This course will help students to express themselves clearly and correctly in written form. Students will critically analyse assigned readings and express their thoughts. The course will also focus on the development of an academic paper utilizing the APA style of documentation.
This course will introduce students to the field of Sociology. Students will develop a general understanding of sociological perspectives by focusing on the basic concepts of sociology. Topics examined include, culture, socialization, sexuality, inequality, crime, deviance, education, religion, gender, media, globalization and the environment. Furthermore, students will be able to use basic sociological terminology and apply the major sociological perspectives to current social systems in Canada.
This course provides an introduction to how knowledge is produced, organized and assessed in the Information Age. With an emphasis on critical thinking, students will become aware of the influences of various media and learn how to locate and evaluate sources including print, electronic, audio and video sources - especially the Internet. Students will also learn how to make the best use of the vast array of information available when conducting research, as well as how to organize and present various types of information in a variety of contexts.
The word culture carries a variety of meanings and is used in numerous contexts. In its broadest sense, culture can be thought of as the total byproduct of human thought and work. Moreover, perceptions of culture are intertwined with human interactions – both historically and in our contemporary world. This course will look at defining what culture is as well as analyze how it informs our beliefs, actions, and values. The dynamic interplay between varied cultural perspectives will be discussed as sources of both celebration and discord.
This course introduces the student to the world of psychology by highlighting human behaviour and mental processes at the individual level. Students will learn why people do and think the way they do from a variety of perspectives and how psychological principles apply to everyday life situations. This introductory course provides a strong foundation for other courses in psychology.
Success can be defined in many ways. This course will look at ways to maximize your academic, employment and personal success. Academically, topics such as study skills, learning strategies, and time management will be discussed. Problem-solving, goal setting, budgeting, and effective communication will also be discussed in a variety of contexts. Topics relating to success in employment will provide useful career strategies. By combining all of the course topics you will have a better understanding of yourself and how you define your personal success.
In this course, students will be introduced to academic writing styles with a thematic focus on current issues. This course will help students to express themselves clearly and correctly in written form. Students will critically analyse assigned readings and express their thoughts. The course will also focus on the development of an academic paper utilizing the APA style of documentation.
This course will introduce students to the field of Sociology. Students will develop a general understanding of sociological perspectives by focusing on the basic concepts of sociology. Topics examined include, culture, socialization, sexuality, inequality, crime, deviance, education, religion, gender, media, globalization and the environment. Furthermore, students will be able to use basic sociological terminology and apply the major sociological perspectives to current social systems in Canada.
This course provides an introduction to how knowledge is produced, organized and assessed in the Information Age. With an emphasis on critical thinking, students will become aware of the influences of various media and learn how to locate and evaluate sources including print, electronic, audio and video sources - especially the Internet. Students will also learn how to make the best use of the vast array of information available when conducting research, as well as how to organize and present various types of information in a variety of contexts.
The word culture carries a variety of meanings and is used in numerous contexts. In its broadest sense, culture can be thought of as the total byproduct of human thought and work. Moreover, perceptions of culture are intertwined with human interactions – both historically and in our contemporary world. This course will look at defining what culture is as well as analyze how it informs our beliefs, actions, and values. The dynamic interplay between varied cultural perspectives will be discussed as sources of both celebration and discord.
This course introduces the student to the world of psychology by highlighting human behaviour and mental processes at the individual level. Students will learn why people do and think the way they do from a variety of perspectives and how psychological principles apply to everyday life situations. This introductory course provides a strong foundation for other courses in psychology.
Discover Your Path with the General Arts and Science Certificate
Not sure what career to pursue? The General Arts and Science one-year certificate program at Confederation College offers the perfect starting point. This program provides a well-rounded foundation in various subjects, helping you explore your interests, gain transferable skills, and earn credits toward future studies.
You’ll engage with topics like media, sociology, psychology, Indigenous studies, and workplace preparation, giving you a solid base to pursue further education or enter the workforce. Whether you plan to continue with college or university programs or start a new job, this program will help you find your direction and prepare for what’s next.
You’ll thrive in the General Arts and Science Certificate program if you are:
Curious and Open-Minded: Eager to explore a variety of subjects and discover new interests.
Undecided but Motivated: Looking for guidance in choosing a career path while earning transferable credits.
Adaptable: Comfortable with different types of courses, from humanities to social sciences and workplace skills.
Critical Thinker: Interested in learning how to analyze problems and develop creative solutions.
Effective Communicator: Willing to improve your written and verbal communication skills for future success.
Self-Reflective: Ready to grow personally by developing self-awareness and understanding of society.
Future-Focused: Planning to continue studies or prepare for career opportunities, with flexibility in mind.
Get a taste of many courses to help you decide what interests you most
Build your skills and earn credits towards future programs
Opportunity to transfer some credits from other programs
Confederation College's General Arts and Science — Certificate program equips students with versatile skills for roles in sectors like education, social services, and media. Graduates pursue positions such as Educational Assistant, Social Services Worker, or Communications Coordinator. The broad curriculum ensures students are prepared with critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills, essential for a range of professional environments.
19 years of age or older, or
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent with courses from:
College (C)
University (U)
University/College (U/C)
Open (O) preparation levels
Must include Grade 12 English at E, C, or U level, or
Successful completion of the Mature Student Assessment, or
Completion of the General Education Development (GED) test, or
Appropriate credits from the Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) program, including:
LBS Level 5 Communications
LBS Level 4 Mathematics
High school or senior secondary diploma
Original transcripts with a notarized, translated copy (if applicable)
English language proficiency:
IELTS Academic: Overall score of 6.0, with no band lower than 5.5
For more information on other English proficiency options, [click here].
If you have completed postsecondary-level courses at a recognized institution, you may be eligible for credit toward the General Arts and Science Certificate. In some cases, only a few additional courses are required to graduate.
Refer to the transfer credit policy and guidelines for earning a second certificate for more details.