The Student Experience
Take every opportunity to grow
Opportunities that set you apart
At the University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Arts & Science students have access to hands-on, personalized learning experiences that go far beyond the classroom:
✓ Conduct Independent Research. Design your own research project through independent studies or pursue an undergraduate thesis to earn an “Honours Thesis” designation.
✓ Join Research Teams. Collaborate with professors on real research projects — many students even co-author published papers.
✓ Get Real-World Experience. Take part in co-op placements and applied studies through Career Bridge.
✓ Present at Conferences. Share your work and connect with peers at disciplinary and student-led conferences.
✓ Shine as a Student Leader. Be nominated as a Shining Student and represent the Faculty as one of our standout undergraduate scholars.
✓ Study Abroad & Field Schools. Broaden your perspective through international exchange or hands-on field schools in select programs.
See the world while you study
Broaden your perspective and earn credit while exploring the world. With study abroad programs and field school opportunities in select disciplines, you can immerse yourself in new cultures, gain hands-on experience, and bring global insight back to your studies.
Discover courses abroad Apply for the Undergraduate Travel Award
Experience learning beyond the classroom
Whether you’re looking for a more in-depth learning experience by assisting with a research project or want to test your knowledge in a real-life setting, we can help. Combined with your required coursework, the programs outlined below will provide you with a solid foundation for further studies and an excellent framework for a challenging and rewarding career ― whatever direction you decide to go.
The Faculty of Arts & Science is proud to offer you the chance to participate in our Co-operative Education program—the only one of its kind in Alberta, offering co-op to all majors at the undergraduate and graduate level. Co-op allows you to gain work experience directly related to your studies and make invaluable contacts in the workforce, all while earning a competitive salary. Completion of the program allows you to receive a Co-operative Education designation on your degree and, most importantly, a kick-start to your career the minute you graduate.
The Applied Studies program offers another unique opportunity to all students as a way to earn course credit for career-related paid or volunteer work experience. This program is specially designed to allow you to integrate principles learned in the classroom in a practical work setting.
In addition to your regular courses, you have the opportunity to participate in independent studies where you will contribute to departmental activities by volunteering on research projects or through employment as a research assistant.
Independent studies courses may be taken for credit inside or outside of the student’s academic major or in an interdisciplinary model. Some majors even require an independent study component. A maximum of five independent studies courses may count for degree credit. Combined degree students may count only three. Independent Studies numbers 2990, 3990 and 4990 indicate the level of advancement.
Independent studies courses may be elected as early as the second semester or as late as the last, depending upon the capability of the student for undertaking academic work with minimal guidance. Independent studies courses may take a variety of forms including library research, laboratory research projects or field study. Each Department provides detailed information on its available resources for support of independent studies courses.
Admission to an independent studies course is achieved through the consent of the instructor, who agrees to guide the independent studies course, and by approval of the Department and the Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Science. Enrolment may be for a regular semester or during a summer session. Credit for an independent studies course is at the discretion of the Department, upon recommendation of the instructor. Grades are due at the end of the term of registration, as for regular courses.
Since independent studies courses are intended to expand a student’s program beyond the limits of the regular curriculum, it may not be used to duplicate course offerings.
Shad ULethbridge is hiring for Summer 2026!
Shad ULethbridge is hiring for Summer 2026, and we are building a team ready to bring energy, creativity and heart and leave with new skills, new connections and a powerful sense of impact.
Shad is a transformational STEAM and entrepreneurship program in July for students in grades 10 and 11. During the immersive month-long program, students live on campus and participate in a real-world design challenge that prepares them to take on social and economic challenges. The program affords students an amazing opportunity to prepare for post-secondary education, participate in university-level lectures and labs and hear from professionals and knowledge keepers. Staff will need to be available from June 30 to August 1 (includes staff training and orientation). The program runs from Sunday, July 5 – Friday, July 31, 2026.
We are hiring for three live-in roles:
Program Assistant
Supports learning and community building through workshops, mentorship and daily engagement. Helps guide participants through an immersive STEAM and entrepreneurship journey.
Recreation Director
Designs and leads fun, safe and high-energy activities that bring the whole community together. Creates moments that spark joy, confidence and team spirit.
Community Wellness Coordinator
Supports the emotional and social wellbeing of participants and staff with empathy, guidance and proactive wellness practices. Helps build a caring and inclusive environment.
This is a month where purpose, creativity and connection come together in ways that stay with everyone involved long after July ends.
Job Descriptions:
Must be available from June 30-August 1, 2026.
The Shad Live-in Program runs Sunday, July 5 – Friday, July 31, 2026.
About Shad
At Shad Canada, our goal is to inspire youth from across Canada to solve problems and influence positive change in the world through STEAM and entrepreneurship. We believe that when young people are empowered to take risks and explore their potential, they go on to impact their communities in meaningful ways and inspire others to do the same.
Alumni of the program go on to create an impressive network of social innovators and industry leaders, putting the program's values into practice across a range of social and professional sectors in ways that facilitate lasting change.
About Shad Live-in
Shad Live-in is a transformational STEAM and entrepreneurship program in July for students in grades 10 and 11. During the immersive month-long program, students live on campus and participate in a real-world design challenge that prepares them to take on social and economic challenges. The program affords students an amazing opportunity to prepare for post-secondary education, participate in university-level lectures and labs and hear from professionals and knowledge keepers. The program runs from Sunday, July 5 – Friday, July 31, 2026.
About the Role
As a Program Assistant, you’ll live on campus for the duration of the program and be responsible for the education, mentorship, and safety of Shad participants. It is a multifaceted role with a focus on fostering a safe, inclusive and engaged community. You’ll create, lead and deliver academic workshops that draw from your own interests and experiences, guide discussions, and support program operations and logistics.
The Program Assistant is accountable to the Program Director and, in addition to delivering program content, plays a coach, mentor and advisory role for participants during the program.
Here’s what you’ll do:
Be fully present in pre-program team training on-site in the days leading up to the program
Be available for mutually agreeable virtual team sessions scheduled at the Program Director’s discretion
Be fully present in program activities, which may include lectures, workshops, events, recreational activities, cultural and social field trips
Live on campus for the duration of the program. Room and board is provided
Prepare one hands-on workshop, on a topic of your interest with approval from the Program Director, prior to your arrival on campus for Team Training
Monitor and support engagement, interaction, performance behaviour of Shad participants, reporting and consulting with Program Directors regarding any concerns
Play an advisory and mentor role for Shad project groups of 8-10 participants
Act in accordance with Shad’s risk management policies and frameworks, to ensure the safety and well-being of program participants
Assist in the organized and timely execution of program activities and logistics
Write a final report that highlights areas of strengths, needs and recommendations to elevate the program for future years
You bring:
A confident and friendly mentorship style – you will work closely with Shad participants and Team Members from across the country with differing communication styles. You will be guiding participants through program activities, mediating conflicts, facilitating discussions, providing directions and instructions and be one of the first Team Members they turn to when they have an issue. You are approachable, a clear communicator and able to excite and engage Shad participants in the program.
A mindset for safety, inclusion and community – the well-being of Shad participants and Team Members is always our topmost priority during the program. You take initiative to ensure safety measures and risk-management frameworks are being implemented and have a keen eye for monitoring the physical and emotional well-being of participants and the Shad community as a whole. You are also able to self-manage your own health throughout the immersive 27-day program, ensuring you are mindful of your own energy and wellness.
You also have:
Experience working with and being responsible for youth in a variety of roles
An ability to anticipate problems and take initiative to solve them before they happen
Diverse and well-rounded experiences and interests that features community service, volunteer work and extracurricular activities
Experience in collaborative team environments
A strong sense of responsibility, maturity and ability to exercise good judgment
Completed or are completing an undergraduate program
Reached the age of 18 years old
Are legally eligible to work in Canada
STEAM experience (an asset)
Please note successful candidates will be required to have a Police Vulnerable Sector Check completed, the results of which must be acceptable to Shad in its sole and absolute discretion, and hold current Standard First Aid and CPR certification prior to starting Team Member Training.
How do I apply?
To apply to be a Program Assistant with Shad ULethbridge, please email your cover letter and resume to catharine.reader@lethbridge.shad.ca.
Program Assistant applicants are encouraged to refer to www.shad.ca for more information about the program. To be considered in the first round of applicants, please submit your application to catharine.reader@lethbridge.shad.ca before January 5, 2026.
Shad Canada values the diverse and intersecting identities of its participants, team members and contractors. We believe that equity and diversity is an integral part of the Shad community and are committed to accessibility for all. We look for applicants who embrace our values of equity, antiracism, and inclusion. As such, we encourage applications from candidates who have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including applicants who identify as First Nations, Métis, and/or Inuit/Inuk, Black, racialized, a person with a disability, women, and/or 2SLGBTQ+. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.
Must be available from June 30-August 1, 2026.
The Shad Live-in Program runs Sunday, July 5 – Friday, July 31, 2026.
About Shad
At Shad Canada, our goal is to inspire youth from across Canada to solve problems and influence positive change in the world through STEAM and entrepreneurship. We believe that when young people are empowered to take risks and explore their potential, they go on to impact their communities in meaningful ways and inspire others to do the same.
Alumni of the program go on to create an impressive network of social innovators and industry leaders, putting the program's values into practice across a range of social and professional sectors in ways that facilitate lasting change.
About Shad Live-in
Shad Live-in is a transformational STEAM and entrepreneurship program in July for students in grades 10 and 11. During the immersive month-long program, students live on campus and participate in a real-world design challenge that prepares them to take on social and economic challenges. The program affords students an amazing opportunity to prepare for post-secondary education, participate in university-level lectures and labs and hear from professionals and knowledge keepers. The program runs from Sunday, July 5 – Friday, July 31, 2026.
About the Role
The Recreation Director (Rec Director) has primary responsibility for the planning, development and execution of recreational activities and events within the Shad program, in cooperation with the Program Directors and Program Manager. In addition, they are expected to participate fully in the day-to-day activities of the program, assisting in the education and mentorship of many young people. The Rec Director arranges the necessary resources and supplies for recreational activities and ensures that proper risk management principles are being applied. The Rec Director is also responsible for leading academic workshops, guiding discussions, and supporting the development of a safe and inclusive community.
What makes a great Recreation Director?
Programs such as Shad thrive on diversity. As such, we are seeking team members with a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences to build a strong team that will thrive in an immersive program environment. Although the program is focused on science, technology, business and mathematics, compelling candidates from the humanities and arts are encouraged to apply. Ideal candidates are mature, responsible and are likely senior students (3rd or 4th year) in their undergraduate program or in graduate studies. Graduates with industry experience are also of interest.
Candidates have proven experience in leadership and community involvement. They are passionate about interacting with and supporting youth with various backgrounds and interests. Familiarity with the programs and facilities of ULethbridge will be considered a strong asset.
Successful applicants will have the following characteristics:
Experience planning, coordinating, and implementing recreational programs, activities and events
A strong understanding of risk management principles
Demonstrated leadership qualities
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Can positively influence a group of top senior high school students
Mature, responsible and able to exercise good judgement
Detailed oriented and organized
Creativity!
Reached the age of 18 years old
- Are legally eligible to work in Canada
What are the expectations for a Recreation Director?
The Rec Director is required to participate fully in program activities and live on the ULethbridge campus for the duration of the program. Room and board are provided
The Rec Director will be expected to attend all team member training, in-person or virtually, at the Program Director’s discretion
Plan, co-ordinate, schedule and implement every-day recreational activities and events in co-operation with the Program Directors and Program Manager, ever mindful of risk management principles and compliance with related risk management policies
Plan, co-ordinate, schedule and implement occasional morning recreational activities for interested participants
Arrange for necessary resources and supplies for recreational activities and events
The Rec Director will need to prepare one hands-on workshops, on a topic of their interest prior to their arrival on campus. All workshop details must be approved by the Program Directors
A final report will be required from all team members after the program ends that highlight areas of strength, need and next steps for the program
Please note successful candidates will be required to have a Police Vulnerable Sector Check completed, the results of which must be acceptable to Shad in its sole and absolute discretion and may need to hold current Standard First Aid and CPR certification prior to starting Team Member Training.
How do I apply?
To apply to be a Recreation Director with Shad ULethbridge, please email your cover letter and resume to catharine.reader@lethbridge.shad.ca.
Recreation Director applicants are encouraged to refer to www.shad.ca for more information about the program. To be considered in the first round of applicants, please submit your application to catharine.reader@lethbridge.shad.ca before January 5, 2026.
Shad Canada values the diverse and intersecting identities of its participants, team members and contractors. We believe that equity and diversity is an integral part of the Shad community and are committed to accessibility for all. We look for applicants who embrace our values of equity, antiracism, and inclusion. As such, we encourage applications from candidates who have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including applicants who identify as First Nations, Métis, and/or Inuit/Inuk, Black, racialized, a person with a disability, women, and/or 2SLGBTQ+. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.
Must be available from June 30 – August 1, 2026
The Shad Live-in Program runs Sunday, July 5 – Friday, July 31, 2026.
About Shad
At Shad Canada, our goal is to inspire youth from across Canada to solve problems and influence positive change in the world through STEAM and entrepreneurship. We believe that when young people are empowered to take risks and explore their potential, they go on to impact their communities in meaningful ways and inspire others to do the same.
Alumni of the program go on to create an impressive network of social innovators and industry leaders, putting the program's values into practice across a range of social and professional sectors in ways that facilitate lasting change.
About Shad Live-in
Shad Live-in is a transformational STEAM and entrepreneurship program in July for students in grades 10 and 11. During the immersive month-long program, students live on campus and participate in a real-world design challenge that prepares them to take on social and economic challenges. The program affords students an amazing opportunity to prepare for post-secondary education, participate in university-level lectures and labs and hear from professionals and knowledge keepers. The program runs from Sunday, July 5 – Friday, July 31, 2026.
About the Role
The Community Wellness Coordinator is a support position dedicated to fostering a culture of holistic wellness across Shad campuses. This role provides insights and support to students and team members by providing compassionate listening, peer support, and practical assistance. They serve as a trusted point of contact for wellness concerns, helping individuals navigate available resources and connecting them with appropriate support services. This is not a clinical or practitioner role, but rather a community-focused position that emphasizes active listening, empathy, and resource navigation to support the overall wellbeing of our campus community. The Community Wellness Coordinator will work collaboratively within the Shad campus team to identify emerging wellness needs and develop responsive support strategies.
Community Wellness Coordinators provide support to participants and team members within the Shad community. They bring experiences in youth development, mental health and/or health care to provide
What makes a great Community Wellness Coordinator?
Programs such as Shad thrive on diversity. As such, we are seeking team members with a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences to build a strong team that will thrive in an immersive program environment. Ideal candidates have experience working with youth from diverse backgrounds, cultivating positive relationships with individuals and groups, and have exceptional communication and listening skills. Community Wellness coordinators know how to set clear expectations for participants, while still creating and maintaining a supportive, safe, and inclusive learning environment.
Successful applicants will have the following characteristics:
Education and/or training in health or wellness practices
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including active listening
Professional, positive and approachable
Can problem-solve creatively, with an empathetic, human-centred approach
Mature, responsible and able to exercise good judgement
Respect and understanding of diverse needs of students and team members
Reached the age of 18 years old
- Are legally eligible to work in Canada
What are the expectations for a Community Wellness coordinator?
Participate fully in program activities and live on the university campus for the duration of the program or as scheduled by the Program Director
Monitor and support participant’s engagement, interaction, performance behaviour, reporting to and consulting with the Program Director regarding any concerns
Be available to support student needs, which may include accompanying participants to appointments
Provide mentorship to students and team members in proactive wellness practices
Be available for consultation by participants and team members during the program
Prepare one hands-on workshop, on a topic related to health and wellness, prior to their arrival on campus for team member training in June. All workshop details must be approved by the Program Directors
Prepare a final report after the program ends that highlights areas of strength, need and next steps for the program
Please note successful candidates will be required to have a Police Vulnerable Sector Check completed, the results of which must be acceptable to Shad in its sole and absolute discretion and may need to hold current Standard First Aid and CPR certification prior to starting Team Member Training.
How do I apply?
To apply to be a Community Wellness Coordinator with Shad ULethbridge, please email your cover letter and resume to catharine.reader@lethbridge.shad.ca.
Community Wellness Coordinator applicants are encouraged to refer to www.shad.ca for more information about the program. To be considered in the first round of applicants, please submit your application to catharine.reader@lethbridge.shad.ca before January 5, 2026.
Shad Canada values the diverse and intersecting identities of its participants, team members and contractors. We believe that equity and diversity is an integral part of the Shad community and are committed to accessibility for all. We look for applicants who embrace our values of equity, antiracism, and inclusion. As such, we encourage applications from candidates who have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including applicants who identify as First Nations, Métis, and/or Inuit/Inuk, Black, racialized, a person with a disability, women, and/or 2SLGBTQ+. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.
Support every step of the way
As a dedicated student, you are expected to invest a lot of time, hard work and money into your education. You should expect the same level of dedication from your university.
At the University of Lethbridge, we are invested in your success and as such, we continue to enhance our services for students. Check out our comprehensive list of services that can help you with your academic and personal development.
In addition, we've created links to several common resources below:
Do you have questions about your program and registration planning? Are you looking forward to graduation, but have many unanswered questions? Do you wonder if you've made the right decision about what to study? Why wonder? Just ask! We have the answers to these questions and more!
Are you apprehensive about writing for university-level studies? Do you want to become an effective reader and writer? Are you ready to dispel misconceptions about writing? Write your story with help from the Academic Writing Centre.
The University of Lethbridge acknowledges and deeply appreciates the Siksikaitsitapi Peoples’ connection to their territory. We, as people living and benefiting from Blackfoot Confederacy territory, honour the traditions of people who have cared for this land since time immemorial. We recognize the diverse population of Indigenous Peoples who attend the University of Lethbridge and the contributions these Indigenous Peoples have made in shaping and strengthening the University community in the past, present and in the future.
Are you ready to challenge yourself with an international education? Do you seek diversity and awareness of culture and global perspectives? Would you like to build connections with students, staff and faculty? Enjoy a Canadian experience at the University of Lethbridge — with a little help from your friends at ICS.
Work at Shad ULethbridge in Summer 2026
