Thompson Rivers University (TRU) offers an extensive online program in addition to their physical campus setting in Kamloops, a city in southern British Columbia. As of the 2007-2008 school year, nearly 9,000 international and domestic students were participating in TRU's online education program. Students can enroll in the "Open Learning" online program, which also allows for the transfer of credits from other schools. There is a wide variety of online degree programs from which to choose, including business, education, technology, tourism and art. Associate's degrees, bachelor's degrees, certificates and diplomas can be earned completely online or in conjunction with campus-based courses at TRU or other Canadian universities. TRU also offers a Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) option for students who have significant life and work experience in certain areas; by putting together a portfolio, completing approved trainings or taking a challenge exam, students can receive college credits based on their knowledge and experience. While taking their courses, students can choose between a paced course with set start and end dates or an independent study with the support of a private tutor.
Thompson Rivers University
900 McGill Rd.
Kamloops, BC V2C 5N3
011-250-828-5000
tru.ca
Athabasace University (AU) is based in the city of the same name in central Alberta. As of March 2010, more than 38,000 students were enrolled at this online university, which offers more than 90 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Utilizing a variety of tools, including video conferencing, e-mail, CD-Roms and print materials, AU courses are delivered over the Internet in either individual or group formats. Students can earn a bachelor's or master's degree in a variety of fields, including nursing, science, business administration and human resources. Two doctorates are offered as well: business administration and education in distance education. As a founding member of the Canadian Virtual University, AU works closely with other Canadian institutions to help students transfer credits from other schools.
Athabasca University
1 University Dr.
Athabasca, AB T9S 3A3
800-788-9041
athabascau.ca
Based in Fredericton, a city in southern New Brunswick, Meritus University is an online university offering degrees in the areas of business and information technology. All courses are taken online and the school offers continuous enrollment, with program start dates once each month. Students can take the 10-week undergraduate courses two at a time, while six-week graduate courses are limited to one at a time. Meritus offers a bachelor's degree in business administration, a bachelor's degree in information technology management, and a master of business administration. Though only three degree programs are available, students can choose from a range of specialties within each area, such as marketing, finance or human resources management.
Meritus University
30 Knowledge Park Dr.
Fredericton, NB E3C 2R2
800-856-3940
meritusu.ca