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.
General Arts and Science – One-Year
Program Details
- Program Code: R104
- Credential: Ontario College Certificate
- Duration: 1 year (2 semesters)
- Method of Study: Full-time
- Starting Months: January, September
- Domestic Tuition: $3,772.00 *
- International Tuition: $16,846.00 **
Program Availability
| Semester | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2022 | Closed | Closed |
| Winter 2023 | Closed | Closed |
| Spring 2023 | Not Available | Not Available |
- PGWP Eligible: No
Get answers to your questions
Book info sessionProgram Description
Program Overview
The General Arts and Science one-year certificate at George Brown College is designed for students who wish to develop the skills and competencies required in college, university and the workplace. As a student in this program, you will explore subjects within humanities, social sciences, and science and mathematics; develop skills in critical thinking, oral and written communications and career development; and acquire knowledge and explore ideas in a range of disciplines to meet your needs and interests. Students who meet GPA requirements may transfer into the two-year diploma program, which has established pathways to a number of universities.
Full Description
As a student in the General Arts and Science one-year (two semesters) certificate program, you will develop the skills and competencies required in college, university and the workplace. The program allows you to explore subjects within the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and science and mathematics; and to develop skills in critical thinking, oral and written communications and career development. An effective career exploration component helps you consider your options for a vocationally specific college education, as well as your interests and eligibility for university/degree transfer.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Vocation-specific college studies: Students who meet the grade point average (GPA) requirements could be eligible for exemptions or advanced standing in other college programs depending on the length of their studies, their grades and the college and program requirements.
Students who successfully complete the one-year (two semesters) certificate may proceed directly into the second year of the General Arts & Science diploma program if they meet all criteria.
University transfer options: After one year of full-time studies, students who meet the GPA requirements can apply for admission to many university Liberal Arts and Humanities programs, sometimes with transfer credits, depending on their grades, the university and the program requirements. Students should seek information about any program-specific and institutional requirements at those universities.
In addition, graduates of this program may qualify for entry into George Brown’s degree programs in Business, Hospitality and Technology if they meet specific requirements. For details, please see the General Arts and Science page.
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM2025 | Communicating with Impact |
| GSSC1055 | Fundamental Themes in Geography |
| HUMN1111 | Critical Thinking: a Reasoning Experience |
| SSCI1107 | Research Matters |
| STS 1038 | Contemporary Issues in Learning and Work |
MATH ELECTIVE (One Required)
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| MATH1034 | Mathematics for General Arts and Science |
| MATH1127 | Foundational Math |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GSCI1035 | Science of Sustainability |
| HUMN1035 | Introduction to Media Studies |
| SSCI1108 | Research in Focus |
SCIENCE ELECTIVE (One Required)
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GSCI1065 | Human Biology |
| GSCI1146 | Plants and Society |
| GSSC1183 | Food and the City: an Investigation of Food Systems |
MATH ELECTIVE (One Required)
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| MATH1094 | Calculus |
| MATH1144 | Math in Real Life |
| STAT1014 | Data Science |
Electives
| Code | Elective Name |
|---|---|
| GSCI1065 | Human Biology |
| GSCI1146 | Plants and Society |
| GSSC1183 | Food & City:Invest.Of Food Sys |
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Develop, through general knowledge gained in a wide range of subjects, insight into both self and society.
- Develop flexibility and clarity of both thought and expression in order to develop communications competence to a level required by business and industry.
- Understand and utilize critical-thinking processes and problem-solving techniques.
- Examine and evaluate various aspects of our changing society to assist in developing a sense of personal and social responsibility as a citizen in society.
- Employ basic vocational skills drawn from the areas of the humanities, social and behavioural sciences of vocational studies (business, technology).
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2021. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2022 and at later dates.
** Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2022. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2023 and at later dates.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit our transfer guide for more information.
Apply to
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown Polytechnic Online Application System.
Contact Us
Call the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences at 416-415-5000, ext. 2009, or email gas@georgebrown.ca.
For more information about George Brown College, call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Thinking about attending George Brown? The General Arts and Science program is taught mainly at our Casa Loma Campus at 160 Kendal Ave., Toronto, Ontario. Sign up for an information session, book a general campus tour to see the common areas of the campus (i.e., cafeteria, student services, the gym, etc.) or explore our virtual tour.
Program Description
Program Overview
The General Arts and Science one-year certificate at George Brown College is designed for students who wish to develop the skills and competencies required in college, university and the workplace. As a student in this program, you will explore subjects within humanities, social sciences, and science and mathematics; develop skills in critical thinking, oral and written communications and career development; and acquire knowledge and explore ideas in a range of disciplines to meet your needs and interests. Students who meet GPA requirements may transfer into the two-year diploma program, which has established pathways to a number of universities.
Full Description
As a student in the General Arts and Science one-year (two semesters) certificate program, you will develop the skills and competencies required in college, university and the workplace. The program allows you to explore subjects within the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and science and mathematics; and to develop skills in critical thinking, oral and written communications and career development. An effective career exploration component helps you consider your options for a vocationally specific college education, as well as your interests and eligibility for university/degree transfer.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Educational Pathways
Vocation-specific college studies: Students who meet the grade point average (GPA) requirements could be eligible for exemptions or advanced standing in other college programs depending on the length of their studies, their grades and the college and program requirements.
Students who successfully complete the one-year (two semesters) certificate may proceed directly into the second year of the General Arts & Science diploma program if they meet all criteria.
University transfer options: After one year of full-time studies, students who meet the GPA requirements can apply for admission to many university Liberal Arts and Humanities programs, sometimes with transfer credits, depending on their grades, the university and the program requirements. Students should seek information about any program-specific and institutional requirements at those universities.
In addition, graduates of this program may qualify for entry into George Brown’s degree programs in Business, Hospitality and Technology if they meet specific requirements. For details, please see the General Arts and Science page.
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM2025 | Communicating with Impact |
| GSSC1055 | Fundamental Themes in Geography |
| HUMN1111 | Critical Thinking: a Reasoning Experience |
| SSCI1107 | Research Matters |
| STS 1038 | Contemporary Issues in Learning and Work |
MATH ELECTIVE (One Required)
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| MATH1034 | Mathematics for General Arts and Science |
| MATH1127 | Foundational Math |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GSCI1035 | Science of Sustainability |
| HUMN1035 | Introduction to Media Studies |
| SSCI1108 | Research in Focus |
SCIENCE ELECTIVE (One Required)
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GSCI1065 | Human Biology |
| GSCI1146 | Plants and Society |
| GSSC1183 | Food and the City: an Investigation of Food Systems |
MATH ELECTIVE (One Required)
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| MATH1094 | Calculus |
| MATH1144 | Math in Real Life |
| STAT1014 | Data Science |
Electives
| Code | Elective Name |
|---|---|
| GSCI1065 | Human Biology |
| GSCI1146 | Plants and Society |
| GSSC1183 | Food & City:Invest.Of Food Sys |
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2021. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2022 and at later dates.
** Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2022. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2023 and at later dates.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
** Mature Student Status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit our transfer guide for more information.
Apply to
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown Polytechnic Online Application System.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Develop, through general knowledge gained in a wide range of subjects, insight into both self and society.
- Develop flexibility and clarity of both thought and expression in order to develop communications competence to a level required by business and industry.
- Understand and utilize critical-thinking processes and problem-solving techniques.
- Examine and evaluate various aspects of our changing society to assist in developing a sense of personal and social responsibility as a citizen in society.
- Employ basic vocational skills drawn from the areas of the humanities, social and behavioural sciences of vocational studies (business, technology).
Contact Us
Call the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences at 416-415-5000, ext. 2009, or email gas@georgebrown.ca.
For more information about George Brown College, call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Thinking about attending George Brown? The General Arts and Science program is taught mainly at our Casa Loma Campus at 160 Kendal Ave., Toronto, Ontario. Sign up for an information session, book a general campus tour to see the common areas of the campus (i.e., cafeteria, student services, the gym, etc.) or explore our virtual tour.

Visit St. James Campus
Book campus tourGet answers to your questions
Book info sessionVisit St. James Campus
Our Virtual Tour showcases the following areas:
- Campus Facilities
- Student Services
- Applied Learning Environments
- Labs & Classrooms
General Arts and Science – One-Year
Program Details
- Program Code: R104
- Credential: Ontario College Certificate
- Duration: 1 year (2 semesters)
- Method of Study: Full-time
- Starting Months: January, September
- Domestic Tuition: $3,801.00 *
Program Availability
| Semester | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2021 | Closed | Closed |
| Winter 2022 | Closed | Closed |
| Spring 2022 | Not Available | Not Available |
- PGWP Eligible: No
Get answers to your questions
Book info sessionProgram Description
Program Overview
The General Arts and Science one-year certificate at George Brown College is designed for students who wish to develop the skills and competencies required in college, university and the workplace. The program allows students to explore subjects within Humanities, Social Sciences, and Science and Mathematics; develop skills in critical thinking, oral and written communications and career development; and acquire knowledge and explore ideas in a range of disciplines to meet individual needs and interests. Students who meet GPA requirements may transfer into the two-year diploma program, which has established pathways to a number of universities.
Full Description
The General Arts and Science one-year (two semesters) certificate is designed for students who wish to develop the skills and competencies required in college, university and the workplace. The program allows students to explore subjects within the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and science and mathematics; and to develop skills in critical thinking, oral and written communications and career development. An effective career exploration component helps students consider their options for a vocationally specific college education, as well as their interests and eligibility for university/degree transfer.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Your Career
Many students use the one-year (two semesters) certificate program to qualify for admission to various college and university programs. Others apply to the two-year (four semesters) General Arts and Science diploma program (R101), which allows them to apply to other college and university programs to earn advanced standing if they meet the grade point average and admission requirements for those programs.
Many others prefer to enter the world of work directly from the program. An education in the Liberal Arts and Sciences is valued in many workplaces and our program helps students to develop the communication and critical thinking skills required in the world of work, particularly for careers that encourage on-the-job professional development.
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM2025 | Communicating with Impact |
| GSSC1055 | Fundamental Themes in Geography |
| HUMN1111 | Critical Thinking: a Reasoning Experience |
| SSCI1107 | Research Matters |
| STS 1038 | Contemporary Issues in Learning and Work |
MATH ELECTIVE (One Required)
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| MATH1034 | Mathematics for General Arts and Science |
| MATH1127 | Foundational Math |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GSCI1035 | Science of Sustainability |
| HUMN1035 | Introduction to Media Studies |
| SSCI1108 | Research in Focus |
SCIENCE ELECTIVE (One Required)
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GSCI1065 | Human Biology |
| GSCI1146 | Plants and Society |
| GSSC1183 | Food and the City: an Investigation of Food Systems |
MATH ELECTIVE (One Required)
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| MATH1094 | Calculus |
| MATH1144 | Math in Real Life |
| STAT1014 | Data Science |
Electives
| Code | Elective Name |
|---|---|
| GSCI1065 | Human Biology |
| GSCI1146 | Plants and Society |
| GSSC1183 | Food & City:Invest.Of Food Sys |
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Develop, through general knowledge gained in a wide range of subjects, insight into both self and society.
- Develop flexibility and clarity of both thought and expression in order to develop communications competence to a level required by business and industry.
- Understand and utilize critical thinking processes and problem-solving techniques.
- Examine and evaluate various aspects of our changing society to assist in developing a sense of personal and social responsibility as a citizen in society.
- Employ basic vocational skills drawn from the areas of the humanities, social and behavioural sciences of vocational studies (business, technology).
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2020. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2021 and at later dates.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
** Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature Students may take the Admissions Assessment for English, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit our transfer guide for more information.
Apply to
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown Polytechnic Online Application System.
Contact Us
Call the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences at 416-415-5000, ext. 2009, or email gas@georgebrown.ca.
For more information about George Brown College, call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Thinking about attending George Brown? The General Arts and Science program is taught mainly at our Casa Loma Campus at 160 Kendal Ave., Toronto, Ontario. Sign up for an information session, book a general campus tour to see the common areas of the campus (i.e. cafeteria, student services, the gym, etc.) or explore our virtual tour.
Program Description
Program Overview
The General Arts and Science one-year certificate at George Brown College is designed for students who wish to develop the skills and competencies required in college, university and the workplace. The program allows students to explore subjects within Humanities, Social Sciences, and Science and Mathematics; develop skills in critical thinking, oral and written communications and career development; and acquire knowledge and explore ideas in a range of disciplines to meet individual needs and interests. Students who meet GPA requirements may transfer into the two-year diploma program, which has established pathways to a number of universities.
Full Description
The General Arts and Science one-year (two semesters) certificate is designed for students who wish to develop the skills and competencies required in college, university and the workplace. The program allows students to explore subjects within the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and science and mathematics; and to develop skills in critical thinking, oral and written communications and career development. An effective career exploration component helps students consider their options for a vocationally specific college education, as well as their interests and eligibility for university/degree transfer.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Your Career
Many students use the one-year (two semesters) certificate program to qualify for admission to various college and university programs. Others apply to the two-year (four semesters) General Arts and Science diploma program (R101), which allows them to apply to other college and university programs to earn advanced standing if they meet the grade point average and admission requirements for those programs.
Many others prefer to enter the world of work directly from the program. An education in the Liberal Arts and Sciences is valued in many workplaces and our program helps students to develop the communication and critical thinking skills required in the world of work, particularly for careers that encourage on-the-job professional development.
Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM2025 | Communicating with Impact |
| GSSC1055 | Fundamental Themes in Geography |
| HUMN1111 | Critical Thinking: a Reasoning Experience |
| SSCI1107 | Research Matters |
| STS 1038 | Contemporary Issues in Learning and Work |
MATH ELECTIVE (One Required)
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| MATH1034 | Mathematics for General Arts and Science |
| MATH1127 | Foundational Math |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GSCI1035 | Science of Sustainability |
| HUMN1035 | Introduction to Media Studies |
| SSCI1108 | Research in Focus |
SCIENCE ELECTIVE (One Required)
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GSCI1065 | Human Biology |
| GSCI1146 | Plants and Society |
| GSSC1183 | Food and the City: an Investigation of Food Systems |
MATH ELECTIVE (One Required)
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| MATH1094 | Calculus |
| MATH1144 | Math in Real Life |
| STAT1014 | Data Science |
Electives
| Code | Elective Name |
|---|---|
| GSCI1065 | Human Biology |
| GSCI1146 | Plants and Society |
| GSSC1183 | Food & City:Invest.Of Food Sys |
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2020. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2021 and at later dates.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
** Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature Students may take the Admissions Assessment for English, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit our transfer guide for more information.
Apply to
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown Polytechnic Online Application System.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Develop, through general knowledge gained in a wide range of subjects, insight into both self and society.
- Develop flexibility and clarity of both thought and expression in order to develop communications competence to a level required by business and industry.
- Understand and utilize critical thinking processes and problem-solving techniques.
- Examine and evaluate various aspects of our changing society to assist in developing a sense of personal and social responsibility as a citizen in society.
- Employ basic vocational skills drawn from the areas of the humanities, social and behavioural sciences of vocational studies (business, technology).
Contact Us
Call the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences at 416-415-5000, ext. 2009, or email gas@georgebrown.ca.
For more information about George Brown College, call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
International Students
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Thinking about attending George Brown? The General Arts and Science program is taught mainly at our Casa Loma Campus at 160 Kendal Ave., Toronto, Ontario. Sign up for an information session, book a general campus tour to see the common areas of the campus (i.e. cafeteria, student services, the gym, etc.) or explore our virtual tour.

Visit Casa Loma Campus
Book campus tourGet answers to your questions
Book info sessionVisit Casa Loma Campus
Our Virtual Tour showcases the following areas:
- Campus Facilities
- Student Services
- Applied Learning Environments
- Labs & Classrooms
