University of Regina now offering 3-year arts and science degree

The University of Regina sign on Wascana Parkway can be seen in this file photo. (David Prisciak/CTV News)

The University of Regina is hoping to bridge the gap between the sciences and the humanities with a new three-year bachelor’s degree.

The new bachelor’s degree in arts and science (BA&Sc) has been “purpose built” for students looking to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges – ranging from climate change and pandemics to political extremism and artificial intelligence.

“The high degree of flexibility in this program offers students the best of all worlds. Graduates will be able to think critically and problem-solve across the creative, human, and natural sciences,” Dean of Science Dr. Douglas Farenick said in the announcement.

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Through the program, students gain a foundation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) with seven courses.

An additional seven courses are spent in communications, literacy and the liberal and creative arts. An additional 16 elective courses allow students to deepen their focus or widen their scope across several disciplines.

“The division between STEM and the arts was always an artificial one. At universities, the need for both STEM and arts skills and knowledge became especially clear as we responded first to COVID-19 and then to the rise of generative AI,” Dean of Arts Dr. Shannon Dea explained in the announcement.

“The BA&Sc will equip employees but also citizens and neighbours to imagine and implement solutions based on the big picture.”

The university says that depending on course selection, students may be able to take two years of their classes off campus – either remotely or through one of the university’s regional colleges.

Students in the Arts, Science or MAP facilities can now register for the program and begin their classes during the upcoming spring/summer semester.