George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
Find your focus. Shape your future.
Not sure what you want to study yet - or want to prepare for the college or university program of your dreams? George Brown Polytechnic’s General Arts and Science programs will help you explore your interests, strengthen your academic skills, and discover where your education can take you.
Program Highlights:
- Develop research, critical thinking and problem-solving skills that prepare you for further post-secondary studies or the workforce
- Explore foundational courses in:
- humanities, social sciences and communications
- math and science
- Clarify your educational and career goals
- Personalized pathway advising
- Benefit from engaging classes, passionate professors and a supportive community
- Keep your options open with flexible pathways to other college programs or university studies
You can learn more about our programs below.
Ready to apply?
Apply now and start in January or September 2026
General Arts and Science (R104)
Explore your options and build your academic confidence in this focused, one-year certificate program. Strengthen your study skills, sample new subjects such as communications, critical thinking, research, geography and math to prepare for college-level studies. Ideal if you want to clarify your academic and career goals before choosing your next path.
General Arts and Science (R101)
With more elected and advanced coursework than the one-year option, this two-year diploma program gives you the opportunity to focus on your interests as you strengthen your academic foundation for future college or university studies. In year two, you will study psychology, sociology, philosophy, history, literature and more.
Student Success
Brittany Barber returned to Canada after living in the United States for 13 years to attend the General Arts and Science program at George Brown Polytechnic. After completing high school, she had no idea where to begin looking for a post-secondary education. She took a leap and moved back to Canada after finding out that a university preparatory program would allow her to earn transfer credits towards a degree. She plans to attend university after graduation and hopes to eventually earn a Master's of Communication. She aspires to become a travel writer and author.
This program has helped me shape my priorities and become a responsible person. In addition to learning the course content, you learn a whole hidden set of underlying skills that are extremely beneficial. This program has helped me surpass my limits and approach new challenges with confidence.”
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Questions?
Entry Advising
Our Entry Advising service can help match your skills, background and career goals with program options.
Virtual Campus Tour
Join us for an online tour of the Waterfront Campus and a live Q & A with one of our recruitment teams.
International Students
Contact our International Admissions team or book an online appointment with a George Brown Polytechnic recruitment representative specializing in your country of origin.