University Overview: Athabasca University Overview: Canada’s Leader in Online & Distance Education
Athabasca University is a globally recognized Canadian public university renowned for its leadership in online and distance education. Established in 1970, the university was created with a clear mission: to remove barriers to higher education by offering flexible, accessible, and high-quality learning opportunities to students regardless of location, age, or life circumstances.
As Canada’s first distance education university, Athabasca University has built decades of expertise in digital learning, serving more than 40,000 learners annually from Canada and around the world. Its academic model is especially designed for working professionals, adult learners, parents, and international students seeking recognized Canadian credentials without relocating.
Academic Excellence & Institutional Credibility
Athabasca University is a publicly funded institution authorized by the Province of Alberta and accredited to grant undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. All programs are developed and delivered by experienced faculty members, many of whom are active researchers and subject-matter experts in their respective fields.
Degrees earned at Athabasca University are fully recognized in Canada and internationally, making the institution a trusted choice for students pursuing career advancement, professional certification, or further academic study.
Flexible Programs & Learning Model
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across disciplines such as Arts, Business, Education, Health, Science, and Information Technology. Courses are designed for self-paced and instructor-supported learning, allowing students to study on schedules that fit their personal and professional commitments.
- Open admission pathways for many undergraduate programs
- Flexible start dates throughout the year
- Fully online course delivery with digital learning resources
- Support services including academic advising and online libraries
Global Reach & Student Support
Athabasca University supports a diverse and international student community, providing comprehensive online student services such as tutoring, academic advising, career planning, and technical support. Its extensive digital library system is one of the largest online academic libraries in Canada, giving students access to scholarly journals, databases, and research materials worldwide.
Through innovation, academic rigor, and a strong commitment to lifelong learning, Athabasca University continues to set the standard for distance education in Canada and beyond, making higher education achievable for learners at every stage of life.
