Circumpolar Studies
School of Liberal Arts
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
t. 867.668.8770 f. 867.668.8805
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Circumpolar Studies (BCS) is a signature program of the University of the Arctic (UArctic), a cooperative network of circumpolar universities, colleges, and other organizations committed to higher education and research in the North. UArctic’s Shared Voices commitment recognizes the vital role of indigenous peoples in the circumpolar world and in the success of UArctic. By drawing on the shared strengths and diverse experiences of northern people, UArctic members believe we can address the unique challenges of the circumpolar region and build an institution that is truly "In the North, For the North, By the North." The Circumpolar Studies Core offers students the opportunity to obtain a broad knowledge and understanding of the lands, peoples and critical issues of the circumpolar world either as a stand-alone program, as electives in a Northern Studies diploma, or alongside a Bachelor of Arts or Science completed at a UArctic-member institution. Thus, it is flexible and will enable students to study in a discipline of their choice while ensuring a focus on circumpolar issues and affairs. Courses are offered on-line, in class, and on exchange to another UArctic institution through the north2north Mobility Program. Yukon College is able to assist students with close to three years of course work towards a BCS at another UArctic member institution.
Link to University of the Arctic website: University of the Arctic
Required Courses
- NOST 101/BCS 100: The Circumpolar World (3 credits)
- NOST 324/ BCS 331: Contemporary Issues in the Circumpolar World I (online only) (3 credits)
- NOST 325/BCS 332: Contemporary Issues in the Circumpolar World II (online only) (3 credits)
- NOST 326/BCS 311: Lands and Environments of the Circumpolar North I (online only) (3 credits)
- NOST 327/BCS 312: Lands and Environments of the Circumpolar North II (online only) (3 credits)
- NOST 328/BCS 321: Peoples and Cultures of the Circumpolar North I (online only) (3 credits)
- NOST 329/BCS 322: Peoples and Cultures of the Circumpolar North II (online only) (3 credits)
Link to UArctic BCS Core Courses Information: ycdl4.yukoncollege.yk.ca/~agraham//uarctic.html
- ENGL 090: Bridging English for University (min. B); OR
- English 12 (min. 80%); OR
- Language Proficiency Index (LPI) test (min. Level 4 with 24/40 on SS, EU & RC)
Admission Requirements
- grade 12 graduation with English 12
- Mature Student Status with acceptable scores on College Assessments, the GED® test or the Language Proficiency Index (LPI) test
If you do not meet the course requirements above, please meet with a program advisor to explore entry options.
Transferability
Bachelor of Circumpolar Studies courses are transferable to other University of the Arctic member institutions and on a course-by-course basis to other institutions in Canada, the United States, and in all of the other circumpolar nations. In addition, non-UArctic institutions have accepted these courses for transfer credit.
Ancillary Fees
For information on program fees and ancillary fees related to courses, please see the Tuition & Fees page.








