View programs
MINISTRY-APPROVED PROGRAM TITLE: General Arts and Science - One-year
Still deciding what you want to do? Take a GAS year, not a GAP year!
Designed to be as flexible or focused as you want it to be, the 8-month (two-semester) GAS-C pathway allows you to discover what interests you by exploring various areas of study while earning credits transferable towards future post-secondary programs. In partnership with the Faculty of Social & Community Services, students also have the option of sampling courses from six different diploma programs. Learn more by clicking on the program details tab.
Earn a certificate as unique as you are, while developing the critical thinking and communication skills needed to succeed in today’s world. This General Certificate program prepares you to continue your studies in college or university by helping you strengthen essential academic skills and habits while you become familiar with post-secondary life, expectations, and opportunities.
View full costs
View all courses
To help students succeed in programs with remote learning requirements, Durham College’s IT Services department has identified minimum technology recommendations. While these are not program requirements, these suggestions will help ensure students have the right tools to support a quality remote learning experience.
View all recommendations
View all career options
Choice. Flexibility. The General Arts & Science GASC pathway gives you both! As flexible or focused as you want it to be, this 8-month (two-semester) certificate helps you adjust to post-secondary life while exploring various areas of study to determine your career goals – all while earning credits transferable towards future post-secondary programs!
Students choose seven electives from a wide variety of General Education courses or from selected courses in six different diploma programs including Behavioural Science Technician, Police Foundations and more (click here to learn more). In addition, students complete core courses in Communications, Computers, and Mathematics while further developing skills like time management, problem solving, communication and critical thinking.
Many course credits earned in the General Arts and Science program are transferable to diploma programs at Durham College, allowing you to lighten your course load in future semesters. Some credits may also be transferable to other post-secondary programs and General Arts and Science graduates may qualify for admission to and/or advanced standing at a university or another college.
How do we support student success? As one of our General Arts and Science (GAS) students, you will benefit from the opportunity to connect one-on-one with your program coordinator as well as your student advisor, as well as taking part in GAS events each semester. Take advantage of the individualized academic planning assistance available through your student advisor to help chart your path forward. Feel free to reach out to LS@durhamcollege.ca with any questions or to arrange a meeting, either virtual or in-person.
The courses listed below are for incoming students. If you are a current student, please refer to your program of study for the year you began your program. Your program of study can be found on MyDC.
Courses and course descriptions are subject to change. Please note that as a result of COVID-19 the 2023-2024 program of study may be modified to accommodate program delivery changes.
More than 75% of this program is delivered in-person.
The rest of the coursework will be delivered using hybrid, flexible or online formats. Students will come to campus to complete in-person learning requirements.Detailed schedules, with course-specific delivery information, will be available after registration. Courses, course descriptions and delivery formats are subject to change.
Durham College also offers degree completion opportunities with a number of Canadian and international institutions. Sample diploma-to-degree opportunities include:
Please visit our pathways page to learn more about how you can transfer your credits towards a degree.
To help students have the best remote learning experience possible, Durham College’s IT Services department has identified technology recommendations for each program based on course needs and software requirements. While not required, students may want to consider these suggestions if they are purchasing a computer or laptop for the upcoming academic year.
Processor: i3 RAM: 4GB Storage: 256GB SSD Operating System: Microsoft Windows 10 Professional or Education x64 SP1 Internet Browser: Google Chrome (newest version) or Firefox (newest version) Network Adapter: 802.11ac 2.4/5 GHz wireless adapter Camera: Webcam/built-in camera Internet connection
Questions regarding technology recommendations can be directed to the IT Service Desk or the school office.
905.721.3000