Associate of Arts Degree (Health Studies) at Northern Lights College - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Program overview

NLC's Associate of Arts Degree (Health Studies) is designed to prepare students for entry into health-related degree programs, particularly emphasizing the University of Northern British Columbia's Northern Baccalaureate Nursing Program. This two-year program offers a comprehensive curriculum that spans both the Arts and Sciences, while also introducing students to the nursing profession. It meets the core prerequisite requirements set by UNBC, covering essential subjects such as social sciences, English, Indigenous studies, human anatomy and physiology, microbiology, psychology, and statistics. Graduates of this program will have a clear pathway to further their education in nursing, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future careers in healthcare.

Program structure

The Associate of Arts Degree (Health Studies) is structured as a two-year program, typically completed over four semesters. Here are some key details about the program:

Program Length: Two years
Minimum of 5 courses (15 credits) per semester
Part-time studies are available, but will extend the duration of the program
Must be completed within four years of admission
Available at two locations: Dawson Creek and Fort St. John
Students are required to travel for lab components of certain Biology classes
Some courses may be offered through video-conference and online

This program is designed to provide a solid foundation in health studies, preparing students for further education and careers in the healthcare field.

Featured Experiences

The Associate of Arts Degree (Health Studies) offers several unique features and experiences that enhance the learning journey:

Emphasis on practical experience through lab components in Biology classes
Partnership with the University of Northern British Columbia, providing a streamlined pathway to the Northern Baccalaureate Nursing Program
Access to a designated number of seats in the nursing program for NLC graduates who meet the grade requirements
Opportunities for collaborative learning and interprofessional healthcare team experiences
Flexible course delivery options, including in-person, online, and video-conference formats

Career Options

Graduates of the Associate of Arts Degree (Health Studies) can pursue a variety of career paths in the healthcare sector. Here are some potential job options:

Registered Nurse: Provide patient care in various settings, including hospitals and community health.
Public Health Educator: Develop programs to promote health and wellness in communities.
Healthcare Administrator: Manage operations and services in healthcare facilities.
Clinical Research Coordinator: Oversee clinical trials and research studies in medical settings.
Health Policy Analyst: Analyze and develop policies to improve healthcare systems and access.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make significant contributions to the health and well-being of their communities.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Program overview

High School Graduation Requirement

High school graduation (grade 12) or equivalent

Language Requirements

For domestic applicants who received their secondary education in English, one of the following:

English 12 with a grade of B or higher, or equivalent

English Studies 12 with a grade of B or higher, or equivalent
English Literature 12 with a grade of B or higher, or equivalent
English First Peoples 12 with a grade of B or higher, or equivalent
ENGL 050(opens in a new tab) with a grade of B or higher, or equivalent
ENGL 099(opens in a new tab) with a grade of B or higher, or equivalent
Any university-level English course with a grade of C or higher
NLC Writing Assessment with placement at the college level (100)

For all other applicants, one of the following:

IELTS result with an overall score of 7.0 or higher with minimum band scores: Speaking: 7.0; Listening: 7.5; Reading: 6.5; Writing: 7.0
Canadian English Language Benchmark Assessment for Nurses (CELBAN) with minimum scores of: Speaking: 08; Listening: 10; Reading: 08; Writing: 07

Math Requirement

One of the following:

Foundations of Mathematics 11 with a C+ grade or higher, or equivalent
Principles of Mathematics 11 with a C+ grade or higher, or equivalent
Pre-calculus 11 with a C+ grade or higher, or equivalent
MATH 040(opens in a new tab) with a C+ grade or higher, or equivalent

Biology Requirement

One of the following:

Biology 12 with a B grade or higher, or equivalent
Anatomy and Physiology 12 with a B grade or higher, or equivalent
BIOL 050(opens in a new tab) with a B grade or higher, or equivalent
BIOL 101(opens in a new tab) with a B grade or higher, or equivalent within five years of program start date

Chemistry Requirement

One of the following:

Chemistry 11 with a B grade or higher
CHEM 040(opens in a new tab) with a B grade or higher within five years of program start date

Chemistry 12 or CHEM 050(opens in a new tab) is strongly recommended.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2025-12-06

Program overview

Intake	Status	Open date to apply	Deadline to apply	Campus
January 2026	Closed	2024-02-01	2024-09-30	Not Available
May 2026	Closed	2024-06-01	2025-01-31	Not Available
September 2026	Closed	2024-10-01	2025-05-31	Not Available