Adult Education

Adult Education for Equity, Workplace, and Community Transformation certificate

This 21-credit certificate provides learners with the knowledge, skills, and practical tools to address systemic inequities and promote Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) across workplace, community, and educational settings. Designed for adult educators, professionals, and community leaders, the program emphasizes decolonization, trauma-informed pedagogy, and praxis-based learning.

Through this certificate, students will explore anti-racism, Indigenous perspectives, gender and sexuality, accessibility, and social change, while developing advanced instructional design, facilitation, curriculum development, and program planning skills. Learning activities integrate theory with applied, community- and workplace-based practices, including opportunities for work-integrated learning and applied research. Graduates will gain the knowledge and applied skills to critically assess, design, and facilitate transformative learning in diverse educational, workplace, and community contexts. They will deepen their understanding of adult learning theories and equity literacies while engaging with decolonial practices and Indigenous knowledge systems. Emphasis is placed on communication, collaboration, reflection, and lifelong learning, preparing students to advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and to lead meaningful social change locally and globally.

The program consists of seven courses (21 credits) that may be taken as a stand alone credential, or as part of a UFV diploma or degree program.

Program learning outcomes

Graduates will be equipped to:

• Analyze systemic barriers and design strategies for equity and inclusion.
• Apply trauma-informed and culturally responsive teaching and facilitation practices.
• Integrate Indigenous, community-based, and participatory approaches into adult education.
• Take on leadership roles as equity advocates and change agents in diverse settings.

Entrance requirements

Option 1: University entrance (for students who have attended some post-secondary school)

1. Applicants must meet the Degree/diploma level English language proficiency requirement. For details on how this requirement may be met, see the English language proficiency requirement section of the calendar.
2. Completion of a minimum of 45 credits in courses numbered at the 100 level and above, with a CGPA of 2.00 (C average) on all credits attempted.

Option 2: Departmental discretionary admission

Suitable applicants coming through a non-traditional path will submit a statement of intent followed by a interview to ensure they meet the program's expectations and are well-suited for the program.

When to apply

Application dates for specific intake applications:

How to apply

1. Apply online at ufv.ca/admissions/apply.

   Additional documents required for a complete application:

   • Official transcripts (or interim transcripts) from all post-secondary institutions attended (excluding UFV) showing grade/course achievement as per program entrance requirements. To be considered official, transcripts must be sent directly to UFV from the originating institution; see the Transfer Credit section for details. If post-secondary transcripts cannot be provided, evidence of compliance with the English language proficiency requirement must be provided.
2. Applicants will be advised of an admission decision and, if accepted, will be provided with registration information. A deposit is required prior to registration (see the Fees and Other Costs section) and will be applied toward tuition fees. Final payment of all course fees is due the end of the second week of classes.
3. Following notification of admission to the program, students must contact the program advisor in order to create a program plan for their studies.

Basis for admission decision

Applicants who meet the entrance requirements will be admitted in order of their application date. This date is set when an application, all required documentation, and the application fee have been submitted.

Program planning

Students should contact the UFV Academic Advising Centre, or the Adult Education Program Advisor if they already enrolled as a BA Adult Education student, for assistance with a program plan.

Program duration

The length of time required for program completion depends on the number of courses taken per semester, and the number of credits awarded through transfer credit or Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR).

Location

The majority of courses are offered online.

Program outline

The program consists of five core courses and two elective courses.

Required courses: 15 credits

These courses have no prerequisites. All are available online.

Elective courses: 6 credits

Two of the following courses:

Residency

Students must complete at least four of the seven courses required in the certificate at UFV.

Course listings

For complete details on courses see the course descriptions section.