Programs

French

The French program at Trinity Western University is designed to equip students with essential skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening comprehension in French. It aims to foster an appreciation for French-speaking peoples and cultures globally. Through the study of language, literature, and civilization, the program explores the past and present cultures of France, Quebec, other parts of French Canada, and other Francophone countries. All proficiency levels are offered, with opportunities for summer study trips to France or Quebec. There are two main streams within the program. The French studies stream is suitable for those who have completed Grade 11 French or FREN 101/102, focusing primarily on language acquisition with integrated cultural content. The language and literature stream is for students who have completed Grade 12 French and involves a deeper study of both language and literature. Both streams can lead to a minor or concentration in French. For students taking at least five French courses without pursuing a minor or concentration, a Letter of Proficiency is available, which can be a valuable addition to a resume.

Game Development

This program prepares students for the rapidly growing video game industry, a major global employer of skilled professionals. The curriculum combines technical game development skills with an understanding of the business and entrepreneurial aspects of the industry. Students will gain practical experience through team-based projects, developing and marketing games from concept to promotion, including business models, cost, and revenue management. Complementing the technical training, TWU's liberal arts foundation aims to develop well-rounded individuals prepared to be leaders in their field.

Gender Studies Minor

The Gender Studies Minor is an interdisciplinary program designed to encourage critical thinking about the historical, cultural, literary, and societal roles of women and gender across global contexts. It is open to students of all majors and aims to foster an understanding of social justice and personal wholeness. The program encourages students to challenge stereotypes and engage with complex gender-based debates, including perspectives informed by the Christian faith. It is particularly relevant for those interested in how gender intersects with race, ethnicity, class, culture, religion, sexuality, and disability.

General Studies

The General Studies program at Trinity Western University offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree designed for students who wish to explore diverse academic interests. This interdisciplinary program allows you to tailor your education by selecting two minors or concentrations, with at least one outside of the natural or applied sciences. This structure provides a well-rounded liberal arts education, enabling you to go beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries and focus on subjects that align with your passions. The program equips you with a broad skill set applicable to a wide range of career paths.

Geographic Information Systems Certificate

Explore the power of digital technology to map, analyze, and understand the Earth and its phenomena. This program teaches you how to map and analyze geographic phenomena such as earthquakes, hurricanes, climate change, wildlife habitats, natural resources, agriculture, and rural and urban environments. You will learn to analyze environmental issues and responses to humanitarian crises using the power of spatial analysis. This certificate equips you with geospatial technology skills to contribute to making the world a better place.

Geography & Environment

Explore the complex relationships between human societies and the environment through our Geography and Environment programs. You'll gain a comprehensive understanding of critical global issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, urbanization, and poverty, drawing on strengths from both the Social Science and Humanities, and Natural and Applied Sciences faculties. Our location provides unique opportunities for hands-on field experience in diverse habitats and urban settings, complemented by training in modern Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology.

Graduate Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL 1)

Trinity Western University's Graduate Certificate in TESOL 1 provides a strong foundation in the principles and practices of effective language education. This program equips you with the skills needed to teach English to speakers of other languages globally or within Canada. Combining in-person coursework with practical experience, it offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and real-world classroom application. You'll explore language acquisition, teaching methodologies, classroom practices, and cross-cultural communication, enhanced by assessments like the Strength Deployment Inventory (SDI) and Cultural Intelligence (CQ). The program culminates in a practicum, offering options for international K-12 teaching with potential employment abroad or Canadian adult language education, which aligns with TESL Canada certification requirements.

History

A degree in History at Trinity Western University equips graduates with the knowledge and critical thinking skills to become informed citizens and effective leaders. The program focuses on understanding societal and institutional change over time, exploring how people and societies have developed in response to various beliefs, ideas, and conditions. This awareness is crucial for informed decision-making in government, business, and personal life, particularly for those seeking to integrate their faith with their understanding of the world.

Human Kinetics

The Human Kinetics program at Trinity Western University focuses on the health and well-being of individuals and their communities. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, emphasizing the role of sport, health, and recreation in fostering active lifestyles. The program aims to equip students with the skills to pursue careers where they can inspire communities and individuals towards healthier, more active lives. With a distinctive faith-based approach, the faculty are dedicated to academic excellence and providing hands-on experiences within smaller class sizes that encourage integrated discussion and strong relationships between students and instructors. The School of Human Kinetics is also a certified training center by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

Human Services Certificate

The Human Services Certificate program at Trinity Western University is designed for students passionate about helping others and caring for communities. This program offers a broad exploration of social sciences, psychology, and sociology, providing a strong foundation for careers in the helping professions. It delves into critical areas such as child and family development, criminal justice, faith-based social services, and global social issues, equipping students to support individuals facing social, emotional, and cognitive challenges. Graduates emerge as knowledgeable and empathetic leaders prepared for diverse roles in social support and community care.

Intercultural Religious Studies

The Intercultural Religious Studies program at Trinity Western University (TWU) offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse cultures and beliefs while examining Christian perspectives and responses. This program allows you to customize your degree to align with your specific interests, with a focus on Christian engagement with global peoples and their needs. You will delve into contextualized and global theologies, alongside biblical and cultural studies, and contemporary issues in mission. The curriculum also explores the work of international relief and development organizations, as well as Bible translation agencies. A key component of the program is a cross-cultural practicum, providing hands-on experience to apply your learning in real-world settings.

Interdisciplinary Humanities (MA)

The MA in Interdisciplinary Humanities at Trinity Western University offers a unique academic journey exploring the core aspects of Western culture through the lenses of English, Philosophy, and History. This program encourages students to analyze significant elements of Western civilization, considering perspectives rooted in, impacted by, or challenging a Christian worldview. It aims to deepen understanding of what it means to be human by examining major philosophical ideas about humanity's purpose. The program is designed for scholars, educators, and professionals seeking to enhance their intellectual skills, critical thinking abilities, and personal or professional purpose. A distinctive feature is its approach to the spiritual or faith-based dimensions within literary, philosophical, and historical studies, fostering a more holistic academic perspective. Students benefit from a flexible learning environment and dedicated faculty mentorship, making it a vibrant and creative interdisciplinary program in Canada.

International Studies

The International Studies program at Trinity Western University offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complexities of our globalized world. Combining insights from Political Studies, History, Economics, and other fields, this program equips students with the knowledge to analyze pressing global issues and contribute to solutions. Students will explore historical and contemporary perspectives on international relations, learning from specialized professors about topics such as foreign policy, globalization, economic disparities, and international development. The program encourages hands-on learning through opportunities for study abroad and field placements, such as at the Laurentian Leadership Centre in Ottawa.

Leadership (BA)

Trinity Western University's Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Leadership is designed to equip students with essential leadership skills applicable across all industries. This interdisciplinary and practical degree focuses on developing your ability to motivate, mobilize, and manage effectively in a rapidly changing world. The program emphasizes acquiring cutting-edge leadership tools to make a positive impact in your workplace, organization, community, and personal life. This flexible degree completion program can be pursued entirely online, allowing you to customize your schedule in consultation with an advisor. It offers a practical learning experience that can be immediately applied to real-world situations, making it a convenient and relevant choice for those seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities.

Leadership (MA)

The MA in Leadership program at Trinity Western University is designed to cultivate emerging leaders into confident and effective servant-leaders for the 21st century. The program offers two foundational curriculum themes: Transformational Servant Leadership and Values-Based Leadership. It utilizes a Competency Model to develop leadership skills applicable across various sectors. Students can choose from specializations in Business, Education, Health Care, or a General stream. The program culminates in a Leadership Integration Project (LIP), a focused capstone experience where students apply the leadership competency model to enhance their leadership capacity and impact. A Thesis Track is also available for students interested in conducting independent leadership research, requiring a separate application process.

Leadership in Missions Certificate

This graduate certificate program offers flexible, part-time training for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding and practice of Christian mission leadership. It provides a strong biblical and theological foundation, coupled with practical skills for cross-cultural ministry in both global and local contexts. The program is designed to enhance intercultural competence and equip students for expanded ministry roles, further graduate study, or leadership in local church missions.

Linguistics (MA)

The Master of Arts in Linguistics program at Trinity Western University is designed to prepare students for leadership and contributions in the field of linguistics. This two-year, 36-semester-hour program offers a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied linguistics, with a particular emphasis on linguistic fieldwork. You will learn to analyze and describe the linguistic structures of languages, including developing written forms for unwritten languages. This program adopts a functional/typological approach, prioritizing practical linguistic analysis for roles such as language revitalization, orthography development, literacy program development, and translation. The program is enhanced by the support and expertise of the Canada Institute of Linguistics, providing one of North America's leading field-oriented programs with faculty rich in practical experience.

MA in Christian Studies

MA in Counselling Psychology

MA in Linguistics

Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MA)

The Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology (MA CPSY) program at Trinity Western University provides comprehensive training for students seeking careers in counselling and related fields. Graduates are prepared to work professionally in diverse settings or to pursue doctoral studies. The program emphasizes developing strong counselling knowledge, skills, and a personal approach, guided by faculty with recognized scholarship and clinical expertise.

Master of Arts in Educational Leadership (MAEL)

Trinity Western University's MA in Educational Leadership (MAEL) program is designed to equip professionals with the advanced skills needed to navigate the complexities of the modern education sector. This program focuses on a leadership model that prioritizes people and teamwork, enabling graduates to make a significant impact on learners and fellow educators. The MAEL is recognized by the BC Ministry of Advanced Education and the TQS for salary upgrades, though completion does not confer a BC teaching certificate. The program offers a dynamic format anchored in servant leadership principles. It can be completed in 17 months of full-time study or 2.5 years part-time, with options for a mixed-model delivery or fully online study. In addition to the MA, TWU also offers a Graduate Certificate in Educational Leadership.