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Thompson Rivers University
Thompson Rivers University

Upgrade Pathways

If you don't meet the requirements for a program, TRU offers upgrading courses that can help you reach your goal. Many courses have an online version.

Campus courses

Courses are available in the fall and winter semesters in Kamloops and Williams Lake. There are two six-week summer sessions in Kamloops. » Application deadlines

Online courses

Take these courses, offered through Open Learning, at your own pace whenever you choose. Online options are shown in the course descriptions.

High school equivalencies

0400 levels
Grade 10 equivalent
0500 levels
Grade 11 equivalent
0600 levels
Grade 12 equivalent

Please check individual courses for prerequisite requirements.

Intermediate level (Grade 10 equivalent)
SINC 0440
General and Applied Science (5,0,2)

SINC 0440 General and Applied Science (5,0,2)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course covers the learning outcomes and core topics of Intermediate Science of the Adult Basic Education Curriculum found in the most recent edition of the BC ABE Articulation Handbook, including the completion of seven or more labs. Students are introduced to important basic science concepts relevant to the general or allied health sciences. The principles of biology, physics and chemistry are studied in a modularized format with an emphasis on the links between disciplines. Students build and strengthen their background in science in order to confidently explore their area of interest.
For more information, search for this course here.

ENGL 0400
Basic Language Skills (6,0,0)

ENGL 0400 Basic Language Skills (6,0,0)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and strategies to enter higher level courses. It is based on the following core skills: vocabulary development, reading, writing and study skills.
Prerequisite: Completion of ENGL 0300, or English 9, or equivalent, with a B or better; or placement on the TRU entry assessment tests at an 0400 level in English
Note: This course is taught by the University Preparation Department
Exclusion: ENGL 0401
For more information, search for this course here.

MATH 0400
Intermediate Pre-Algebra (6,0,0)

MATH 0400 Intermediate Pre-Algebra (6,0,0)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

Adult Basic Education (ABE) – Intermediate: Students study basic math concepts including operations with whole numbers, decimals, fractions, and percentages. Additional topics include systems of measurement, geometry, and an introduction to algebra. Together with MATH 0410: Intermediate Algebra, this course fulfills the ABE Intermediate Algebra level requirements.
Prerequisite: Mathematics 9 (min. grade C-) or equivalent
Note: This course is taught by the University and Employment Preparation Department. Students cannot receive credit for both MATH 0401 and MATH 0400
For more information, search for this course here.

MATH 0410
Intermediate Algebra (6,0,0)

MATH 0410 Intermediate Algebra (6,0,0)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

Adult Basic Education (ABE) – Intermediate: Students study concepts that include linear equations, graphing, powers, radicals, scientific notation, polynomials and right triangle trigonometry. Together with MATH 0400: Intermediate Pre-Algebra, this course fulfills the ABE Intermediate Algebra level requirements.
Note: This course is taught by the University and Employment Preparation Department. Students cannot receive credit for both MATH 0401 and MATH 0410
For more information, search for this course here.

Intermediate level (Grade 11 equivalent)
BIOL 0500
General Biology (5,0,2)

BIOL 0500 General Biology (5,0,2)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

ABE - Advanced: This basic Biology course introduces students to the fundamentals of Biology. It includes a brief study of the cell, Binomial Nomenclature, and the major Phyla of Plant and Animal Kingdoms. Fundamentals of plant and animal physiology are introduced with emphasis on the inter-relationship among living organisms.
Note: This course is offered in Williams Lake. Required Lab: BIOL 0500L
Note: Students cannot receive credit for both BIOL 0500, BIOL 0501
For more information, search for this course here.

CHEM 0500
Foundations of Chemistry 1 (5,0,2)(L)

CHEM 0500 Foundations of Chemistry 1 (5,0,2)(L)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

ABE - Advanced: This course is designed for those students who have taken no previous high school chemistry course but who now require the equivalent of Chemistry 11 for entry into a certain program or course. Topics covered include chemical arithmetic, chemical nomenclature, chemical formula calculations, energy, solutions, atomic theory, chemical bonding, acids and bases, and physical properties. The laboratory reinforces concepts introduced in the lectures.
Prerequisite: Foundations of Mathematics 11 or MATH 0500 or equivalent
Note: This course is taught by the University Preparation department
Note: Students cannot get credit for more than one of CHEM 0500, CHEM 0501
For more information, search for this course here.

PHYS 0500
Introduction to Physics 1 (5,0,2)(L)

PHYS 0500 Introduction to Physics 1 (5,0,2)(L)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

ABE - Advanced: This course is suitable for students with little or no physics background. Physics 0500 examines the basic principles upon which the discipline of physics is founded. In doing so, it provides students with a new perspective from which to view the world around them and with a solid content basis for future courses in physics should this be the objective. The course is oriented toward developing experimental and problem solving skills.
Prerequisite: MATH 0500
Note: This course is taught by the University Preparation Department.
Note: Students cannot receive credit for both PHYS 0501 and PHYS 0500
For more information, search for this course here.

ENGL 0500
Developing Writing Skills (6,0,0)

ENGL 0500 Developing Writing Skills (6,0,0)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

ABE - Advanced: A basic writing skills course which covers mechanics, sentence structure, grammar and composition. The major modes of writing (description, narration, and exposition) are covered.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of ENGL 0400 or Two of: Composition 10, Creative Writing 10, Literary Studies 10, New Media 10, Spoken Language 10, EFP Writing 10, EFP Literary Studies 10, EFP New Media 10, EFP Spoken Language 10 with a minimum C+ or Communications 12 with a minimum C+
Note: This course is taught by the University Preparation Department
Note: Students cannot receive credit for both ENGL 0500 and ENGL 0501
For more information, search for this course here.

NAST 0500
Introduction to Indigenous peoples Studies (6,0,0)

NAST 0500 Introduction to Indigenous peoples Studies (6,0,0)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

ABE - Advanced: This course provides students with an overview of historical and current social, economic, and political issues concerning Indigenous people.
Prerequisite: None
Note: This course is taught in Williams Lake
For more information, search for this course here.

MATH 0510
Advanced Algebra (6,0,0)

MATH 0510 Advanced Algebra (6,0,0)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

Adult Basic Education – Advanced: Students study concepts that include basic algebra, systems of linear equations and inequalities, polynomials, relations and functions, rational expressions and equations, radical expressions and equations, quadratic equations and functions, and trigonometry.
Note: This course is taught by the University and Employment Preparation Department. Students cannot receive credit for both MATH 0523 and MATH 0510 Prerequisites: MATH 0410 (min. grade C+) or Foundations of Mathematics and Pre-calculus 10 (min. grade C+) or Foundations of Mathematics 11 (min. grade C) or equivalent
For more information, search for this course here.

MATH 0520
Advanced Foundations of Mathematics (6,0,0)

MATH 0520 Advanced Foundations of Mathematics (6,0,0)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

Adult Basic Education – Advanced: Students study concepts that include basic algebra, rates, linear relations, systems of linear equations and inequalities, quadratic functions, geometry and trigonometry.
Note: This course is taught by the University and Employment Preparation Department
Prerequisite: MATH 0410 with minimum of C or Foundations of Math & Pre-Calculus 10 or equivalent
For more information, search for this course here.

MATH 0530
Provincial level (Grade 12 equivalent)
BIOL 0600
Human Biology (5,0,2)(L)

BIOL 0600 Human Biology (5,0,2)(L)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

ABE - Provincial: A study of the major principles of human anatomy and physiology from the origin of atoms and elements through to the structure and function of molecules, cells, tissues, organs and body systems. Introduces the basic principles of Genetics and Evolution. Laboratory work involves organizing observations, drawing conclusions and effective communication.
Prerequisite: CHEM 0500 Required Lab: BIOL 0600L
Note: This course is taught by the University Preparation Department.
Note: Students cannot receive credit for both BIOL 0600, BIOL 0601
For more information, search for this course here.

CHEM 0600
Foundations of Chemistry 2 (5,0,2)(L)

CHEM 0600 Foundations of Chemistry 2 (5,0,2)(L)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

ABE - Provincial: A pre-university level course for students requiring a more in-depth introduction to chemistry than provided by CHEM 0500 or Chemistry 11. The course is an acceptable prerequisite for CHEM 111. Topics covered will be similar to those dealt with in Chemistry 12 and will include gas laws, reaction kinetics, chemical equilibrium, solubility of ionic substances, acids and bases, oxidation-reduction and organic Chemistry. The laboratory exercises will illustrate and reinforce topics covered in the lectures.
Prerequisite: Chemistry 11 or CHEM 0500
Corequisite: Principles of Math 12, or MATH 0600 or equivalent, is strongly recommended
Note: This course is taught by the University Preparation Department Required Lab: CHEM 0600L
For more information, search for this course here.

PHYS 0600
Introduction to Physics 2 (5,0,2)(L)

PHYS 0600 Introduction to Physics 2 (5,0,2)(L)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

ABE - Provincial: This course is an indepth study of the principles of scientific measurement, vectors, two-dimensional kinematics and dynamics, electrostatics, electromagnetism, vibrations and waves and optics. Physics 0600 is a Provincial level (grade 12 equivalency) physics course. It will prepare students for university, trades and technology programs which require Physics 12 as a prerequisite. The course is primarily theoretical and places an emphasis on the mathematical analysis of physical phenomena and the development of problem solving and experimental skills.
Prerequisite: PHYS 0500 or Physics 11 and MATH 0510 or Foundations of Mathematics 11
Note: Students cannot receive credit for both PHYS 0600 and PHYS 0601
For more information, search for this course here.

COMP 0600
Introduction to Programming (2,0,4)

COMP 0600 Introduction to Programming (2,0,4)

Credits: 3 credits
Delivery: Campus

ABE - Provincial: A programming course designed for students who are planning to take a first year course in computer programming at the college or university level, CSOM or as a prerequisite for COMP 1130. It assumes no previous experience on computers and aims to develop problem solving skills and knowledge of a computer language. Students will learn the VISUAL BASIC.NET programming language.
Prerequisite: Foundations of Mathematics 11 or MATH 0510 and COMP 0500 or instructor's permission
Note: This course is taught by the University Preparation Department
For more information, search for this course here.

ENGL 0600
Literature and Composition (6,0,0)

ENGL 0600 Literature and Composition (6,0,0)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

ABE - Provincial: ENGL 0600 is a Provincial Level (Grade 12 equivalency) course which prepares students for the demands of compositions required in academic courses. It provides for further development of writing and thinking skills begun in earlier levels. Students work with a variety of rhetorical models for essay development. Also included is a critical analysis of selected works of prose and poetry.
Prerequisite: ENGL 0500 or one of: Composition 11, Creative Writing 11, Literary Studies 11, New Media 11, Spoken Language 11, EFP Literary Studies and Writing 11, EFP Literary Studies and New Media 11, EFP Literary Studies and Spoken Language 11 with a minimum C+, or completion of ESAL 0570 and ESAL 0580 with a minimum C.
Note: This course is taught by the University Preparation Department
Note: Students cannot receive credit for both ENGL 0600 and ENGL 0601
For more information, search for this course here.

ENGL 0620
Composition and Studies in Indigenous Literature (6,0,0)

ENGL 0620 Composition and Studies in Indigenous Literature (6,0,0)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

This course is a Provincial Level (Grade 12 equivalency) course which prepares students for university level English courses. It provides further development of writing and thinking skills. Students work with a variety of models for essay development. Indigenous perspectives will be explored through critical analysis of selected works of prose and poetry written by indigenous authors or covering topics about Indigenous issues. A variety of teaching approaches will promote success of students working from a variety of learning styles, backgrounds, and experiences.
Prerequisite: ENGL 0500 with a minimum C+ or one of: Composition 11, Creative Writing 11, Literary Studies 11, New Media 11, Spoken Language 11, EFP Literary Studies and Writing 11, EFP Literary Studies and New Media 11, EFP Literary Studies and Spoken Language 11 with a minimum C+.
Note: Students cannot receive credit for more than one of ENGL 0600, ENGL 0601 and ENGL 0620.
For more information, search for this course here.

NAST 0600
An Overview of Major Issues in Indigenous peoples Studies (6,0,0)

NAST 0600 An Overview of Major Issues in Indigenous peoples Studies (6,0,0)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

In this course, students explore issues related to the role of elders, women, and leaders in matters pertaining to health, education, justice, and economical development in Indigenous peoples communities and off-reserve communities. Using the articles found in the textbook as a guide, the instructor will draw upon community resources to supplement the course content. Classroom activities will include presenting in small groups and conducting library and Internet searches.
Prerequisite: ENGL 0500 or equivalent
For more information, search for this course here.

MATH 0600
Provincial Pre-Calculus 1 (6,0,0)

MATH 0600 Provincial Pre-Calculus 1 (6,0,0)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

Adult Basic Education (ABE) – Provincial: Students develop math skills that prepare them for further studies in calculus. Topics include a review of advanced algebra, an introduction to functions, and a study of linear, quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Together with MATH 0610: Provincial Pre-Calculus 2, this course fulfills the ABE – Provincial Level (Grade 12 equivalency) requirements.
Prerequisite: MATH 0510 with a minimum C or Pre-calculus 11 or equivalent
Note: This course is taught by the University and Employment Preparation Department. 
Exclusion: Both MATH 0600 and MATH 0610 together provide the exclusion from OL's MATH 0633 - Pre-Calculus
For more information, search for this course here.

MATH 0610
Provincial Pre-Calculus 2 (6,0,0)

MATH 0610 Provincial Pre-Calculus 2 (6,0,0)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

Adult Basic Education (ABE) – Provincial: Students build on skills developed in Pre-Calculus 1 in preparation for further studies in calculus. Topics include polynomial, rational, and trigonometric functions, analytical trigonometry, and sequences and series. Together with MATH 0600: Provincial Pre-Calculus 1, this course fulfills the ABE Provincial Level (Grade 12 equivalency) requirements.
Note: This course is taught by the University and Employment Preparation Department. Both MATH 0600and MATH 0610 taken together exclude a student from OL's MATH 0633 - Pre-Calculus
Prerequisite: MATH 0600 (min. grade C)
For more information, search for this course here.

MATH 0630
Provincial Pre-Calculus 1 and 2 (9,0,0)

MATH 0630 Provincial Pre-Calculus 1 and 2 (9,0,0)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

Adult Basic Education (ABE) – Provincial: Students acquire math skills in preparation for further studies in calculus. Students learn the characteristics of linear, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions. Additional topics include analytic trigonometry and sequences and series. MATH0630 fulfills the ABE – Provincial Level (Grade 12 equivalency) requirements.
Note: This course is taught by the University and Employment Preparation Department. Students will only receive credit for one of MATH 0630 and MATH 0633.
Prerequisite: MATH 0510 (min. grade B) or Pre-calculus 11 or equivalent.
For more information, search for this course here.

MATH 0650
Provincial Foundations of Mathematics (6,0,0)

MATH 0650 Provincial Foundations of Mathematics (6,0,0)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

Students study a variety of math concepts including logical reasoning and set theory, permutations and combinations, probability, exponential and logarithmic functions, polynomial and sinusoidal functions, and financial mathematics.
Note: This course is taught by the University and Employment Preparation Department.
Prerequisite: Minimum standing C in MATH 0510 or MATH 0520 or MATH 0550 or Foundations of Mathematics 11 or equivalent.
For more information, search for this course here.

STSS 0600
Personal and Academic Success Strategies (6,0,0)

STSS 0600 Personal and Academic Success Strategies (6,0,0)

Credits: 4 credits
Delivery: Campus

Students learn methodologies and strategies necessary for ongoing academic success and a healthy university/life balance. Topics covered include time management , learning styles, reading strategies, test taking, communication, diversity, group dynamics and money management. Prerequisite or Co-Requisite: ENGL 0500 or equivalent.
For more information, search for this course here.

Course offerings may vary between campuses.


Questions?

Kamloops campus advisor
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Williams Lake campus advisor
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Qelmúcw recruiter-advisor
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Online (Open Learning) advisor
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