General information
This fully online program recognizes the growing need for individuals with the knowledge, competencies, and skills to facilitate teaching and learning with technology in a range of educational contexts. The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Educational Studies prepares a new kind of leader-expert essential to the knowledge-based economy; an educational expert who possesses both a broad social understanding of education and a critical understanding of digital technologies for learning.
All students will be required to complete the program’s nine core education courses (27 credits).
For the remaining 33 credits, students can choose electives from the full Educational Studies course list, excluding those designated as required courses. Students may use some of their electives to pursue a specialization in an area of Educational Studies. By choosing at least four electives (12 credits) from a specific theme, students can apply for that specialization to appear on their transcript.
All Educational Studies courses are available online, with both synchronous and asynchronous components. Some in-person options may be available.
Note: The BA in Educational Studies program does not qualify a graduate for membership in the Ontario College of Teachers or to teach in Ontario’s elementary and secondary school systems. However, students may choose to apply to Ontario Tech’s Primary/Junior Concurrent Education program which enables students to transition directly into the 16-month Bachelor of Education (BEd) the fall semester following their graduation from the BA. Students must complete all prerequisites and graduate before July 1 during the calendar year they wish to enter the BEd.
Adult Learning with Technology specialization
The Educational Studies specialization in Adult Learning with Technology is a research-based and industry-responsive specialization that develops the understanding and skills to work in learning and development in various fields such as business, government, and non-profit organizations. Students will develop inclusive adult educational spaces, with a focus on the use of digital technologies for learning.
Digital Technology specialization
The Educational Studies specialization in Digital Technology prepares leader-experts with the flexibility to apply innovations in digital technology and inquiry-based learning in working to a variety of educational settings. The specialization emphasizes real-world inquiry/problem-based learning, providing effective opportunities to develop job-ready skills in training and instruction using digital technology.
Early Childhood Studies specialization
The Educational Studies specialization in Early Childhood Studies prepares experts with the flexibility to apply innovations in digital technology and inquiry-based learning while working with young children in various educational settings. The specialization emphasizes real-world inquiry/problem-based learning, providing effective opportunities to develop job-ready skills in training and instruction using digital technology in early childhood education.
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion specialization
The Educational Studies specialization in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) develops expertise with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to recognize systemic, historic and attitudinal barriers that contribute to discrimination and oppression in both workplace learning and classroom settings. Courses will incorporate problem-based learning and critical reflection to identify issues, evaluate resources and articulate solutions to EDI issues in Canadian education and in society, in order to counter bias and discrimination against under-represented and equity-deserving groups with a focus on creating pathways to full inclusion for everyone in education.
Special Education specialization
The Educational Studies specialization in Special Education is designed to cultivate experts equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the diverse needs of students with exceptionalities. Students will be introduced to the foundational principles of Special Education, exploring topics such as the historical context, ethical considerations, models of inclusion, and assistive technologies. Through real-world inquiry and problem-based learning, this specialization aims to produce professionals who are adept at creating inclusive and accessible spaces across a range of educational contexts.
Admission requirements
Admission is competitive and the specific average or standing required for admission will vary from year to year. Students are selected by taking into consideration a wide range of criteria including school marks, distribution of subjects taken, and performance in subjects relevant to the academic program. Preference will be given to applicants with the best qualifications.
The BA in Educational Studies program is available through advanced entry. Applicants with an Ontario college diploma (or equivalent) and a minimum B average can receive up to 60 transfer credits and begin the degree program as a third-year student.
Program details and degree requirements
To be eligible for the BA degree in Educational Studies, advanced entry students must successfully complete an accelerated 60 credit hour program. This program is available for full-time and part-time studies.
Although reasonable efforts will be made to adhere to the following program map, course requirements and term offerings may change. For the most up-to-date list of course offerings, please visit the faculty website at education.ontariotechu.ca.
Educational Studies electives*
All Educational Studies courses that are not required courses are eligible Educational Studies electives. Students may choose to take four specialization courses (outlined below) as electives in order to declare that specialization on their transcript.
Note: Not all electives will be offered every year. Some courses may have prerequisites.
Work-Integrated Learning Courses
A limited number of fourth-year students may participate in a learning experience with a community organization. The practicum course consists of up to 100 hours of fieldwork, in-class seminars, ongoing assignments and a culminating task (e.g., paper or poster). As part of the pre-practicum process, students will be required to acquire a Vulnerable Sector check at their own expense. For additional information, please refer to the course description for EDST 4980U .
Educational Studies major with Adult Learning with Technology specialization (12 credit hours)
To complete a specialization in Adult Learning with Technology, students must complete:
Educational Studies major with Digital Technology specialization (12 credit hours)
To complete a specialization in Digital Technology, students must complete at least four of the following courses designated as Digital Technology courses:
Educational Studies major with Early Childhood Studies specialization (12 credit hours)
To complete a specialization in Early Childhood Studies, students must complete at least four of the following courses designated as Early Childhood Studies courses:
Educational Studies major with Equity, Diversity and Inclusion specialization (12 credit hours)
To complete a specialization in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, students must complete at least four of the following courses designated as Equity, Diversity and Inclusion courses:
Educational Studies major with Special Education specialization (12 credit hours)
To complete a specialization in Special Education, students must complete at least four of the following courses designated as Special Education courses:
