Bachelor Of Arts Undeclared Arts(First Year Studies Only), Toronto Metropolitan University - Ryerson University

Toronto, Ontario

12 Months

Check Eligibility

About this course

Undeclared Arts is designed as a first-year studies program that provides students with the opportunity to explore various areas within the social sciences and humanities before committing to a specific major or double major for the following three years. Throughout the first year, students take foundational courses, including key skills courses in Academic Writing, Research, and Critical Thinking, which are essential for university success. The program offers flexibility with electives spanning business, natural sciences, media, and fine arts, enabling students to discover their interests and even pursue minors. This setup allows students to gradually identify their preferred specialization while earning credits that transfer smoothly into their chosen program at the end of first year.

Why this course is highly recommended

Undeclared Arts is ideal for students who are still exploring their academic interests in social sciences and humanities. This program provides the time and flexibility to sample various disciplines through elective courses, helping students make an informed choice about their future major. The structure emphasizes skill-building with courses in Academic Writing, Research, and Critical Thinking, which are valuable no matter the specific field students pursue later. For students unsure about their direction, this program offers a solid foundation and a pathway to multiple majors without the pressure of declaring immediately.

Specialisation

Students who succeed in the first year can transfer into a range of specialized programs within social sciences and humanities, such as Criminology, English, Environment and Urban Sustainability, Geographical Analysis, History, Language and Intercultural Relations, Philosophy, Politics and Governance, Psychology, or Sociology. The program also supports double majors like Criminology and History, English and Philosophy, among others. Because of the shared foundational courses, credits earned in Undeclared Arts are transferable into these specific programs, enabling a smooth transition once students choose their specialization after first year.

Course fees

Application fees

20.63L

1st year tuition fees

20.63L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Students must complete the first-year curriculum, which includes core courses in Academic Writing and Research, Critical Thinking, and electives from a wide range of areas including business, sciences, media, and arts. Transfer to a specific program occurs after completing first-year courses, with students applying by the second semester to their preferred major. Transfer applications are competitive and depend on program capacity, with specific coursework required for each target program. Students cannot remain in Undeclared Arts beyond the second semester. For those already with post-secondary credits, applications are made directly to the major programs without transferring from Undeclared Arts.

English language test

DUOLINGO

120

TOEFL

IELTS

6.5

PTE

Career prospects

While the program itself is designed as a stepping stone rather than a direct employment pathway, the skills developed—such as academic writing, research, and critical thinking—are highly valued in many fields. Once students transfer into their chosen major, their career prospects will align with that discipline, whether in social sciences, humanities, or related sectors. The flexible electives also allow students to develop additional competencies suited to a range of professions in business, media, urban planning, or public service. This foundational year helps students clarify their interests, leading to more focused career development in their chosen field.

FAQs

Can I stay in Undeclared Arts for more than one year?

No, students must transfer to one of the specified programs by the end of their second semester, as remaining in Undeclared Arts beyond that is not permitted.

How do I transfer to my chosen program?

Students need to apply through the Undeclared Arts office by February 2nd for transfer, and applications are competitive based on grades and space availability.