Faculty of Arts and Science

Join innovative and intelligent students like you in the pursuit of a world-class degree in Arts and Science. Our faculty offers over 21 areas of study ranging from Biology to Sociology so no matter where your passion is we have a program for you.

  • Engage with some of the best educators and thought leaders with Nipissing small class sizes.
  • Benefit from personalized attention and in some cases even participate in graduate-level research.
  • Experience a truly unique setting with state-of-the-art facilities nestled in 256 acres of pristine forest.
  • If you love the outdoors and are looking for a quality education Nipissing is for you.
  • Guaranteed single room in residence for first year students admitted from high school.

Welcome from the Dean of Arts & Science

Welcome to the Faculty of Arts & Science at Nipissing University!

We are delighted to have you as part of our vibrant academic community. Whether you are learning, teaching, researching, or supporting the work we do, your contributions make our faculty a dynamic and inspiring place.

The Faculty of Arts & Science offers an incredible range of opportunities to explore ideas, expand knowledge, and engage with the world. From the wonders of the natural sciences to the creativity of the arts and humanities, our disciplines invite curiosity and foster growth. Together, we are committed to excellence in education, research, and collaboration.

At Nipissing, we value small class sizes, personalized attention, and a welcoming environment where everyone feels at home. We emphasize experiential learning and diverse approaches to teaching and scholarship, ensuring that our community thrives both inside and outside the classroom.

Life at Nipissing is about more than academics. It’s about building connections, discovering new interests, and contributing to a supportive and inclusive campus culture. We encourage you to take advantage of the many opportunities available, whether through research, extracurricular activities, or community engagement.

Thank you for being part of our faculty. We look forward to working, learning, and growing together.

Experiential Learning & Research Opportunities

Doug Manners with owl

Doug Manners doing owl banding.

Experiential Learning

UNIV 3006 Experiential Learning for Arts and Science Students

Third and fourth year Arts and Science Students will be interested in our 3 credit course, UNIV 3006 Experiential Learning for Arts and Science Students. Within this course, academic assignments and at least 60 hours of placement in the community within a field that is related to your course of study is offered.

Undergraduate Research Conference (2019)

Undergraduate Research Conference

The annual Undergraduate Research Conference allows eligible students who have led a scholarly project to present their work and gain experience, with opportunities to also work as a Research Assistant.

 

Record of Student Development

  • The Record of Student Development (RSD) lets students gain and showcase real-world skills like communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and a strong work ethic that employers value.
  • To register and see the full list of RSD competencies visit www.nipissingu.ca/rsd

Get Involved on Campus

Nipissing University Student Union (NUSU)

  • Students attending Nipissing University in North Bay and long distance students are members of the Nipissing University Student Union. Our organization strives to represent students democratically, provide a communication framework, and lobby for legislative change on issues that affect students.

Lakers Athletics

  • Intramural Sports: Nipissing’s Athletics Department offers a wide range of intramural activities to keep you on your game
  • Lakers Club Sports: Club sports are available to all Nipissing students and are both recreational and competitive.
  • Varsity Sports: Go Lakers! Our varsity athletes always bring their “A” game. Get your friends together and come out to cheer on your favourite teams.
  • RJ Surtees Athletic Centre: Whether you are a gym enthusiast or a weekend warrior, Nipissing has just what you need.

Language Testing Options

French Language Placement Test

Please note that the French Placement Test is no longer a requirement to register in French courses as of 21FW.

  • If you wish to enrol in FREN-1106 Introductory French I and have no knowledge of French, you are encouraged to contact the Dean's Office at asdean@nipissingu.ca to seek permission. If approved, the Dean's Office will inform the Office of the Registrar and you will be notified that you can proceed with registering for Introductory French I. 
  • It is strongly recommended that students enrolling in the French Minor at Nipissing University with grade 12 core French enrol in FREN-1106 Introductory French I, while those who have graduated from a French immersion or fully French secondary school enrol in FREN-2006 Intermediate French I. 
  • If you wish to enrol in FREN-2006 Intermediate French I and have not completed Introductory French, you are encouraged to contact the Dean's Office at asdean@nipissingu.ca to request exemption from this prerequisite requirement. If approved, the Dean's Office will inform the Office of the Registrar and you will be notified that you can proceed with registering for Intermediate French. 

Certificate of Bilingualism

Students of Nipissing University are eligible for a Certificate of Bilingualism if they demonstrate superior ability in French and English.

  • Please note:  You must be in your graduating year to take this test.
  • Application Deadline:  Friday, October 31st, 2025
  • Written Examination:  TBA
  • Oral Examination: TBA
  • There is a fee of $45 to write this test. 

Application forms are available through the Dean of Arts and Science Office at asdeanoffice@nipissingu.ca

Dean

Associate Dean

Administration

Staff

Community Engagement and Experiential Learning

Community Engagement Courses (CECs)

What’s the aim?

Community engagement courses foster student-community engagement through integrated learning where students and community members learn together about important social, cultural, economic, and environmental issues; indigenous history and culture; conflict resolution; food and land; death and dying; and many other topics that address our planetary challenges.

As you immerse yourself in the course content of your choosing, you will have the opportunity to connect with both the course instructor and Nipissing students.

We offer the courses for credit to students and non-credit for community members.

If you are a community member and would like to know more about our courses, please click here to be redirected to the Extended Learning page.

If you are a student, please register through WebAdvisor.