Athabasca University is a public, accredited open university in Alberta, Canada, offering online and distance learning.
Athabasca University is a fully accredited public post-secondary institution in Canada. It is a designated post-secondary institution of the Government of Alberta and reports through the Ministry of Advanced Education. The university describes itself as Canada's Open University, with a commitment to accessibility and flexibility in online and distance learning for learners worldwide.
Athabasca University offers undergraduate degree programs, diplomas, and certificates in business, health, technology, arts, and more. Graduate programs lead to a master's degree, doctoral degree, graduate diploma, or certificate and require an undergraduate degree. Over 850 online course options are available across a variety of subject areas, and most courses are delivered online as individualized study. The university recommends allocating 10-15 hours per week for each undergraduate course.
Athabasca University uses an open admission policy, so students aged 16 or older are accepted. Most undergraduate programs have no specific admission requirements, though some have additional criteria. Admission routes include undergraduate open admission, graduate programs, open studies, visiting students, and international students.
The university operates Nukskahtowin, meaning "meeting place" in Cree, which provides academic and administrative support for Indigenous citizens. Other listed services include accessibility services, wellness resources, the AU Service Centre, and the Student Success Centre. Athabasca University is located on and works on the traditional lands of the Inuit, First Nations, and Métis peoples of Canada.