Blue Seal
The Blue Seal is granted through Alberta Apprenticeship & Industry Training. It requires the completion of three post-secondary business related courses which can be taken through distance delivery with Athabasca University. AU courses allow you to study anywhere, anytime and each course is designed to be completed in six months.
We suggest that you begin your Blue Seal by selecting one of the two courses, below:
- ENTP 212 Introduction to Small Business Management
- ADMN 232 Administrative Principles
- Or choose from other AU School of Business courses
- Blue Seal requirements are fulfilled by completing three courses in these subject areas: Accounting, Administration, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Human Resource Management, Industrial Relations, Management, Marketing, and Organizational Behaviour
Register Today!
To get rolling with the Blue Seal, please follow these steps:
STEP 1: BECOME AN ATHABASCA UNIVERSITY STUDENT
- Complete the Undergraduate General Application. Indicate that you do not wish to enrol in an Athabasca University program at this time.
- After applying, you will receive your AU student ID number.
STEP 2: REGISTER FOR YOUR FIRST COURSE
- Choose your first course. Contact a School of Business advisor for assistance.
- You may wish to choose ENTP 212 Introduction to Small Business Management, OR ADMN 232 Administrative Principles.
Of course, you're free to choose other business related courses, too!
Horizon site employees: We anticipate many people, like you, will earn their Blue Seal while working at Horizon, so we suggest that you begin your Blue Seal by selecting one of the recommended courses. This will better allow you to study with others at camp, if you wish. - Log in to myAU using your student ID number and click on Register for a Course. Choose your start date, enter the subject and select your course.
- Pay your course fees.
STEP 3: SIGN-UP FOR YOUR WELCOMING GIFT
- Email Devon, our learning ambassador, or call 780-691-3046 to sign-up for your welcoming gift.
Blue Seal FAQs
What is the Blue Seal with Athabasca University?
The Blue Seal with Athabasca University is designed for Alberta journeymen (or equivalents) who are interested in learning formal business skills. The combination of trades and business knowledge, signified by Blue Seal accreditation, is a valuable asset for trades’ employers when recruiting to fill management positions. It can also be a great stepping stone for those who want to start their own business.
The goal of the program is to help certified trades people develop and refine their business competencies. Regardless of the position held in an organization, knowledge about business topics such as management, human resources, marketing and commercial law are valuable.
What do I need for the Blue Seal?
First of all, you must have a valid:
- Alberta journeyman certificate, or
- Alberta occupational certificate, or
- a document indicating that you hold a certificate that is recognized as equivalent to an Alberta trade or occupational certificate, or
- a certificate that is recognized as equivalent to an Alberta trade or occupational certificate.
Then, you must complete three business-related courses. Contact a School of Business advisor for assistance. Once you’ve completed your three courses, fill out the Blue Seal Application form and follow a few simple instructions, which include sending your transcripts to Alberta Apprenticeship & Industry Training. If you’ve already completed business training, we encourage you to apply directly for the Blue Seal recognition.
You can also apply the university course credits you earn through your Blue Seal towards other credentials with Athabasca University.
What is an Athabasca University course like?
Since Athabasca University is a distance education university, you set your own schedule. You can work at your pace, and choose when and where you would like to study. Athabasca University courses are on-par with courses offered at other universities. You have six months to complete each course, and you’ll probably want to devote 10-15 hours a week to work on your course. Having said that, every course is different. If you haven’t taken university-level courses before, we suggest you start with lower numbered courses to get a feel for what’s expected. You have complete flexibility over when you start working towards your Blue Seal, and when you finish it.
When you’re looking over courses that you’re interested in, be sure to read through the course syllabus which provides a good glimpse into each course. You can also check out some sample courses.
How do I know which courses to choose?
You can choose from a variety of courses. You can select the courses on your own, or ask an advisor. We’re happy to help and can ensure that the courses you’ve selected are the best fit for you.
To contact a School of Business advisor:
Phone: 1-888-449-8813
Email: sb@athabascau.ca
How do I know if I’m ready for Distance Education?
There is no quick answer to this question, but we encourage to explore Am I Ready for Athabasca University? It’s a self-directed tool which will help you assess your readiness for distance education.
Will I need a computer for my courses?
Yes, you will need a computer with Internet access. If you do not have a computer, we may be able to lend you one for the duration of your courses. To learn more, contact Learning Communities at (780) 691-3046. You will also need to know how to browse the Internet, send and receive emails, and download files. The Fort McMurray Public Library will be on the Horizon site several times throughout the Fall 2009 to teach sessions at Horizon. See the upcoming events for specific dates and topics.
How much does it cost?
The costs of post-secondary studies are always changing. Assuming current prices (for Alberta residents) and that you successfully complete the three courses, your total cost for the Blue Seal would be about $2,000. This includes application to Athabasca University ($80), three courses ($639 each) and application to Alberta Apprenticeship & Training ($50). Unlike most other universities, your books are included in your course fees.