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Bachelor of Human Resources and Labor Relations

The Bachelor of Human Resources and Labour Relations is an integrated, multidisciplinary program of courses that examines employment relations within their social, legal, political, and economic context.

This program is delivered in partnership with Portage College, and the University of Athabasca students will split their classes between Portage and Athabasca University, allowing for online, hyflex, or in-person delivery for Portage College classes.  Athabasca Classes are delivered via distance learning. 

The program will be of interest to trade unionists, managers, human resource specialists, and individuals interested in better understanding the employment relations of their workplace.

To learn more about this wonderful opportunity, please get in touch with one of our Student Advisors. 

Call our Cold Lake Campus at 780-639-7109 or Lac La Biche Campus at 780-623-5577 or email Portage College Student Advisor

Career Potential

Graduates of the Bachelor's of Human Resources and Labour Relations are able to work in Human Resources or continue their studies into a Master or PHd 

High School Matriculation: A minimum average of 60% and no mark lower than 50% in the following courses:

 1). English Language Arts 30-1
 2). Four other 30 Level courses (5 credits each) from the following list:

  • Humanities: Social Studies 30-1, a 30-Level language other than English, Aboriginal Studies 30 (5 credits minimum)
  • Fine Arts: Art 30, Art 31, Dance 35, Drama 30, Music 30 (10 credits maximum)
  • Sciences: Biology 30, Chemistry 30, Science 30, Mathematics 30-1, Mathematics 30-2*, Mathematics 31 (courses may be pre-requisites for particular junior level science or mathematics university courses) *dependent on the program this course may not be accepted by other institutions as entrance requirements or pre-requisites
  • Electives: Physical Education 30, World Geography 30, Advanced CTS subjects (5 credits maximum)

Mature Student: 19 years of age or older, out of high school for at least one full year, and a minimum average of 60% with at least 50% in English Language Arts 30-1 and one other five credit Grade 12 course.

Open Studies Admission: Successful completion of nine credits.

Documents: Complete high school transcripts and post-secondary transcripts, if any work completed at a post-secondary institution

Use this chart to check Provincial high school equivalencies accepted at Portage College. Note: This is just a guide.

Other: May be required to do an interview with the instructor or coordinator 

International Student Admission: Based on transcripts, students may need to complete and Grade 12 English proficiency exam and subject area proficiency exams based on the degree stream selection

Transferability:

Transfer agreements are in place with many different post-secondary institutions across the province and country including the University of Alberta, the University of Calgary, and MacEwan University. 

Students are encouraged to check out our partnership bachelor programs.

Certification:

Diploma

Program Start/End Dates
August 29, 2024 to December 20, 2024 (Fall Term)
January 6, 2025 to April 25, 2025 (Winter Term)
April 28, 2025 to June 20, 2025 (Spring Term)

Application Deadlines

Fall Term:
Domestic: August 15, 2024
International Student: June 30, 2024 (Applications will be considered if you can obtain a study permit and all the relevant documents before July 15, 2024)

Winter Term:
Domestic: December 12, 2024
International: October 15, 2024 (Applications will be considered if you can obtain a study permit and all the relevant documents before December 15, 2024)

Spring 2025 Term:
Domestic: April 17, 2025
International: February 15, 2025 (Applications will be considered if you can obtain a study permit and all the relevant documents before April 15, 2025)

Domestic Student Fees
Application Fee $53.50
Tuition Deposit - $100 (non-refundable for oversubscribed programs)

Fall Term
Fee payment deadline: August 15, 2023

Tuition $2,594.46
Student Association $116.70
Technology Fee $82.71
Recreation Fee $54.57
Total $2,848.44

Part-time Fees
Tuition is calculated using “cost-per-credit” one credit is $170. Calculate the cost by multiplying the number of credits per course by $170.

Visit  Portage Bookstore for textbooks and supplies

Winter Term
Fee payment deadline: December 15, 2023

Tuition $2,594.46
Student Association $116.70
Technology Fee $82.71
Recreation Fee $54.57
Total $2,848.44

Part-time Fees
Tuition is calculated using “cost-per-credit” one credit is $170. Calculate the cost by multiplying the number of credits per course by $170.

Visit  Portage Bookstore for textbooks and supplies

Spring Term
Fee payment deadline: April 21, 2024

Spring tuition is calculated using “cost-per-credit” one credit is $170. Calculate the cost by multiplying the number of credits per course by $170.

Other mandatory fees per semester

Student Association $68.95
Technology Fee $82.71
Recreation Fee $23.54
Total $175.20

Visit  Portage Bookstore for textbooks and supplies

Need help funding your education? Check out our  funding options.

Fee Explanations

Technology Fee This is a mandatory fee assessed to students enrolling in any credit course (except for apprenticeship programs) at Portage College. The fee supports the on-going maintenance and upgrades to administrative systems that support the entire College infrastructure.

As such, it is considered a “mandatory non-instructional fee” and, therefore, is subject to Alberta Advanced Education Public Post-Secondary Institutions’ Tuition Fees Regulations. Visa students are charged the same rate as Canadian residents for this fee.

Athletics & Recreation fees are collected to provide recreation and leisure opportunities that promote students’ physical, social, and emotional well-being, whether online or through in person facilities. Check out your +region in the link, to see what is offered at your campus or online.

Students’ Association Fees These fees are authorized by student referendum and the Board of Governors. They are collected by the College on behalf of the Students’ Association in accordance with the Post Secondary Learning Act.

Other purchases may be necessary in order for students to complete their courses/program.

Course Listings

  • INTRODUCTORY COMPOSITION

    Course ID: ENGL102

    Name: INTRODUCTORY COMPOSITION

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    This course helps students to develop the academic writing skills they use throughout their university studies. Students learn to identify good writing, and develop needed research, analytical, and organizational skills. Starting with building good sentences and paragraphs, the research essay is the most important genre in this course. By analyzing, summarizing, synthesizing, and critiquing a variety of texts, students learn how to develop their own analyses and arguments with appropriate and correctly documented primary and secondary sources. Readings by or about indigenous and minority peoples form no less than 50% of the readings in this course. A review of grammar and sentence structure is a key component of this course.  Students are advised to choose a research topic in line with their career goals.  
     
    Prerequisite 60% in ELA 30-1
  • CAREER INTERNSHIP 1

    Course ID: INTD205

    Name: CAREER INTERNSHIP 1

    Hours: 130

    Credits: 3

    This unique, optional course provides students the opportunity to put classroom learning into practice in a 100-hour work experience. Students can apply their academic knowledge and skills to meaningful experiences in the workplace within their field of study and/or their career goals. This course involves 30 hours of employment training activities prior to entering the 100-hour placement. Students are responsible for securing an approved work-experience placement; the work experience is monitored and evaluated by the employer.

    Pre/Corequisites: Completed 12 credits with a minimum GPA of 2.5 (prior to enrolment) and permission from the Coordinator or designate

  • ACCOUNTING I

    Course ID: ACCT106

    Name: ACCOUNTING I

    Hours: 64

    Credits: 3

    Within the conceptual framework of accounting, including Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, students are introduced to the accounting equation and the effect various transactions have on it. An introduction to ledgers, journalizing transactions, trial balance, income statement and balance sheet are presented. The accounting cycle, accounting for merchandise operations, internal control, accounts receivable, accounts payable, cash control, and the valuation of inventories are examined. Prerequisites: Math 30-2

  • INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF CANADIAN HISTORY: CONFEDERATION TO THE PRESENT

    Course ID: HIST211

    Name: INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF CANADIAN HISTORY: CONFEDERATION TO THE PRESENT

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    This course will provide an introductory survey of Canadian history from 1867 to the present. Among the major themes discussed will be nationalism, industrialization, urbanization, and cultural change. In addition, key concepts and methods of history as a discipline will be reviewed. Prerequisites: 60% in ELA 30-1

  • INTRODUCTION TO THE NOVEL AND THE SHORT STORY

    Course ID: ENGL108

    Name: INTRODUCTION TO THE NOVEL AND THE SHORT STORY

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    English 108 is designed to teach critical writing, critical reading, and critical thinking while studying canonical literary texts from the eighteenth to the twentieth-first centuries. This course combines the study of literary works with instructional texts to teach students to express themselves more clearly in writing and in speech. The creators of this course also hope that students develop an appreciation for fine literary works. This course will present novels and short stories from a variety of historical periods, and from a variety of cultural contexts. Particular emphasis will be place of the development of correct writing style, rhetorical skills, and thinking skills required for academic study. A minimum of thirty percent of class time will be devoted to writing instruction, which may take any or all of the following forms: formal written assignments, informal writing exercises, writing workshops, stylistic and rhetorical analysis, research skills, peer editing, group writing projects, and ungraded writing. Students will write two formal essays that will be graded, including an analytical and a research paper. The total amount of writing will be no less than 3,000 words.

  • SOCIOLOGY OF AGING

    Course ID: SOCI125

    Name: SOCIOLOGY OF AGING

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    This course will use innovative and exciting methods to allow students to explore the sociological perspective of the aging process of the individual and of the population. It presents aging as a normal life process with the goal of maximizing the life potential of people at all ages. Students will gain a better understanding and appreciation of the social impact of aging in a variety of contexts, mainly focusing on Canadian society. The biological, psychological, and social aspects of aging are explored in addition to the pros and cons of social programs and policies in Canada. The relationship of aging with our economy, health care system, and social programs will be examined in different contexts. Prerequisites: 60% in ELA 30-1

  • HUMAN ANATOMY

    Course ID: BIOL230

    Name: HUMAN ANATOMY

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    This course provides an in-depth study of the structures of the human body and their interrelationships using a systems approach. The correlations between structure (anatomy) and function (physiology) are examined. Major topics include body organization, the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, respiratory, cardiovascular, lymphatic, digestive, endocrine, urinary, and reproductive systems, the general and special senses, and human development. This course is designed to prepare students in medical fields of study for advanced courses in their respective fields, as well as other university transfer students.

    Pre/Corequisite 60% in ELA 30-1, BIO 30, BIOL231

  • INTRODUCTION TO ANTHROPOLOGY

    Course ID: ANTH101

    Name: INTRODUCTION TO ANTHROPOLOGY

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    This course provides a general introduction to anthropology through the study of central concepts and key issues in each of the four fields of anthropology: biological, cultural, and linguistic anthropology as well as archaeology. Human variation, both physical and cultural, will be examined in the context of adaptation and change.
     
    Prerequisite: 60% in ELA 30-1
  • COMMUNICATIONS I

    Course ID: COMM121

    Name: COMMUNICATIONS I

    Hours: 64

    Credits: 3

    Exceptional communication skills are vital to success in business. In this course, students will learn to apply effective business writing techniques and strategies. These include critical thinking, problem determination, scholarly research, and proper documentation. Students will produce a formal, informational research report and deliver an engaging oral presentation based on their report. Students will use business productivity software to create professional reports and presentations.
     
    Note: Students taking a reduced course load should take this course as one of their first courses. The concepts and skills you will learn in this course are required in all of your other business courses.
  • AN INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF AMERICAN HISTORY SINCE 1865

    Course ID: HIST251

    Name: AN INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF AMERICAN HISTORY SINCE 1865

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    This course will provide an introductory survey of American history since 1865. The main political, economic, and social aspects of American life during this period will be examined. Among the major themes discussed will be race relations, industrialization, urbanization, and U. S. foreign policy. When combined with History 250 this course will provide a complete survey of U. S. history and a basis for future study in the area. Prerequisites: HIST 101 or HIST 102

  • ACCOUNTING II

    Course ID: ACCT107

    Name: ACCOUNTING II

    Hours: 64

    Credits: 3

    Capital assets are discussed with reference to recording acquisition cost, amortization, exchanges and disposal. Short-term and long-term liabilities, partnerships, corporations, share capital, and the statement of cash flows/cash flow analysis are introduced and examined individually. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles are examined through-out the course, as they relate to the specific subject areas. As a final integration, the student will study the analysis of financial statements. Prerequisite – ACCT 106

  • INTRODUCTION TO THE HISTORY OF WESTERN ART II

    Course ID: ARTH102

    Name: INTRODUCTION TO THE HISTORY OF WESTERN ART II

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    This course introduces the history of visual arts and design from the 14th Century to the present day. While the course can be taken by itself, it also builds on the knowledge gained from ARTH 101, which covers the history of visual arts and design from the earliest times up to the 14th Century. Starting from a period considered to be the origin of our modern age, ARTH 102 follows the development of visual arts to the types of art, design, and architecture found in our contemporary world.

    In our modern age, we are inclined to take for granted the cornucopia of visual images and art to which we are exposed, which has increased dramatically with the rise of mass advertising and television. In today's digital age, the impact of visual content is becoming more significant with the rise of the Internet and electronic media. Yet of all the arts, the visual arts are perhaps those most dependent on a continuum of evolution, development, tradition, and experimentation founded on earlier models. This course will introduce you to the wealth contained in that continuum. It will also introduce you to ways of looking at and considering visual art in a deeper and more fulfilling way. Students will acquire some vocabulary, terminology and more common methodologies. You will develop skills in analyzing and discussing works of art, understanding the cultural context of the art, and how works of art reflect cultural concerns and imperatives.

    For those who wish to continue the study of art history, this course will provide the foundation for academic approaches to the subject. The course introduces some of the most significant human creations, works, and artifacts that impact human thoughts and experiences while continuing to influence our imaginations and intellect.

  • INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICS & RESEARCH METHODS

    Course ID: STAT141

    Name: INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICS & RESEARCH METHODS

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    This introductory statistics course provides students in a variety of disciplines with basic knowledge regarding the theory and application of statistics. Prerequisites: 50% in MATH 30-1 or Math 30-2 at 60% and 60% in ELA 30-1

  • BUSINESS MATHEMATICS

    Course ID: MATH117

    Name: BUSINESS MATHEMATICS

    Hours: 64

    Credits: 3

    This course is designed to provide students with knowledge of the fundamental principles and concepts of business mathematics and to develop their abilities to apply these principles and concepts to solve practical business problems, particularly in marketing and finance. This course includes a lab component to analyze business math problems with spreadsheets. Prerequisites – Math 30-2

  • CAREER INTERNSHIP 2

    Course ID: INTD206

    Name: CAREER INTERNSHIP 2

    Hours: 130

    Credits: 3

    This course provides students the opportunity to further their work experience and continue to develop skills established in the classroom and in their initial practicum. Students apply their academic knowledge and skills to meaningful experiences in the workplace within their field of study and/or their career goals. In a 130-hour work placement, students identify the skills in INTD205 that require additional practice and develop new practical skills to build their repertoire. Students are responsible for securing an approved work-experience placement; the work experience is monitored and evaluated by the employer.

    Pre/Corequisites: INTD205 and a minimum GPA of 2.5 (prior to enrolment), and permission from the Coordinator or designate

  • INTRODUCTORY FRENCH II

    Course ID: FREN102

    Name: INTRODUCTORY FRENCH II

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    French 102 is the second semester of an introductory French program which focuses on the French language and Francophone cultures throughout the world. This course is designed to facilitate the further development of your communication skills in French and to give you a balance of all four language skills: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. By the end of the semester, you will be able to initiate and sustain interactions in French, understand the main ideas of what you hear, see, and read in French, and express yourself clearly in written French. In addition to acquiring intermediate-level grammatical and linguistic knowledge, you will also gain a deeper understanding of diverse aspects of French-speaking cultures. Prerequisites: FREN 101

  • INTRODUCTORY WOMEN'S AND GENDER STUDIES

    Course ID: WGST201

    Name: INTRODUCTORY WOMEN'S AND GENDER STUDIES

    Hours: 45

    Credits: 3

    This course is an interdisciplinary introduction to the study of women and issues important to women. This course is a prerequisite for other women’s studies classes and will provide you with the theoretical foundations necessary for understanding women’s issues. The concept of gender will be explored as a critical category in relation to race, ethnicity, sexuality, class, and culture. Social institutions such as education, family, work, health, sexuality, religion, and politics will be explored through the course readings, presentations and in-class discussions. Prerequisites: 60% in ELA 30-1

  • BUSINESS LAW

    Course ID: BUSL261

    Name: BUSINESS LAW

    Hours: 64

    Credits: 3

    This course presents legal topics relevant to business, including ways to manage common legal risks. An introduction to the Canadian legal system presents sources of law, the court system, the litigation process, and alternatives to litigation.

    Tort law includes a study of intentional torts, business torts, negligence, and professional liability. Insurance law covers basic concepts of the insurance industry and how to manage risks in business. Forms of business organizations are delineated, focusing on the rights and responsibilities of individuals involved in sole proprietorships, partnerships, and corporations.

    Contract law details how contracts are created, the elements of a binding contract, common contractual issues and defects, how contracts are discharged and contractual remedies. An overview of the Sale of Goods Act will complete the study of contracts. Employment law describes the employer/employee relationship, the rights and duties of the parties involved, and common issues that may arise in the employment relationship. Intellectual property law discusses how businesses can generate value from ideas and the laws that seek to balance competing business interests.Secured transactions look at risk assessment and legal obligations of creditors when securing debt and practices developed in the marketplace to manage that risk through security interests and guarantees.

    PREREQUISITES: ELA 30-2 or COMM 121

  • MARKETING

    Course ID: MARK166

    Name: MARKETING

    Hours: 64

    Credits: 3

    This is an introductory course covering the fundamental principles and concepts of marketing. Major emphasis is placed on the marketing mix and its strategic application to an increasingly complex business environment. In particular, the areas of product, promotion, price, and distribution are examined as they relate to the achievement of company objectives.

    Prerequisites: ELA 30-2 or COMM 121

  • BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS II

    Course ID: COMM124

    Name: BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS II

    Hours: 53

    Credits: 2

    Business Communications II reviews and extends skills in using standard English principles, including grammar, punctuation, vocabulary and spelling. Proofreading and editing for common usage and formatting errors in a variety of business documents are emphasized. Writing skills are introduced and applied to memos, letters, and other common business documents. Oral communication and presentations is also covered. Prerequisite – COMM 123

We acknowledge that Portage College’s service region is on the traditional lands of First Nation Peoples, the owners of Treaty 6, 8 and 10, which are also homelands to the Métis people. We honour the history and culture of all people who first lived and gathered in these lands.
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