Academics
Providence is a Christian University College offering a basic liberal arts education, but what does that mean?
The Liberal Arts study who we are as individual people and as groups or nations, so it is a category of disciplines that study how humans relate to their identity. It asks a variety of questions. What does it mean to be a human being? How have humans acted in the past? How can I be the best person possible? Who am I? Who can I be? What have humans accomplished in our history? The liberal arts gives answers to questions like these. Asking these questions within a Christian context - Who does God say that I am? and Who does God say I should be? - is very exciting.
What is the relationship between the Liberal Arts and a University Education? While the Liberal Arts designate an are of study commonly leading to the Bachelor of Arts degree, university education refers to a level of achievement and thought that includes a breadth of understanding regarding the place of each subject within the universe of knowledge and understanding. Rather than achieving an idea of only a specific discipline independent of other surrounding knowledge, a university level education stresses relationships between academic disciplines. To meet this objective of being well rounded, Providence graduates are required to study Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Biblical and Theological Studies, and Fine Arts in addition to their chosen major. As evidence of our courses being taught at a university level, Providence students are able to transfer many (approximately 180 to the University of Manitoba at the present) of their courses into university programs.
Can university level study be Christian?
Historically, Providence has been a Christian higher education institution that believes that strong academic work is a complement rather than a deterrent to Christian piety. The broad curriculum base at Providence gives students a more comprehensive understanding of the world and is a primary distinction of a Providence education. This value was already evident in the 1930s when President Forsberg (1931-1935) "believed that academic excellence and spiritual vitality should go hand in hand in training young people for Christian Ministry." At Providence the curricular breadth is further complemented by the great variety of denominations, ethnicities, and viewpoints represented in our faculty and student body.
How does university level study fit with Providence's history?
Providence began in 1925 as part of the Bible Institute movement that trained people for work within the church and para-church organizations. It concentrated on biblical study and subjects such as missions, Christian education, theology, and church music. Over the past twenty years or so, Providence began gradually introducing disciplines like sociology, history, education, psychology, and anthropology for a broader institutional focus that would complement the original Bible College subjects. These university-type offerings were the beginning of the change. While the biblical focus was and is retained now, other interests were added, so that Providence became more than a Bible College.
As time has gone on, more and more students (and parents) began to choose majors that fall within the Christian Liberal Arts College umbrella (approximately two-thirds at present) rather than those majors that would have been offered under the Bible College umbrella. Students are seeking broader exposure and recognizing a more diverse view of the world which university level study in a Christian context offers. While we are maintaining our core biblical and Christian studies (27 credit hours), it is important to acknowledge the shift to a university level focus in our presentation.
How do majors such as Business and Communications fit into a Christian university level liberal arts B.A.?
The degree that Providence confers is a Bachelor of Arts degree. At the centre of that B.A., every graduate must take 54 credit hours from Social Sciences, Humanities, Biblical and Theological Studies, and Fine Arts. These disciplines are clearly within even the narrowest definition of liberal arts. Although some majors such as Business or Education fall outside that narrow definition of liberal arts, they do fit into a broader definition: For example, how we relate to one another in business or education can be seen as part of our original "What does it mean to be human" questions. Because the outcome is a B.A. degree rather than a B.Comm. or a B.Ed., the institution as a whole, including Professional Studies, is recognised as a liberal arts institution.
How is Providence different from the public universities?
While every higher education institution aims to graduate students who are proficient, independent, and who think carefully with moral conviction, a Christian institution has the advantage of a foundational belief and value system. Although diverse views of each issue are fairly presented, there is an ultimate reference point against which all issues can be measured. Good and truth are defined in accordance with Christian and biblical teaching rather than individually by personal preference.
For a Christian institution, the Christian God sets the measure of what is true, right and good. A Christian college (like Providence) claims that truth is not something we each make up for ourselves. Rather, however imperfectly we understand it, truth is found to be inherent in the nature of the Christian God; it is not just one of many options on a spiritual buffet where we can pick and choose what suits us. It is this Christian understanding of the truth that calls upon us to love and to serve.
Do Providence College courses transfer to universities?
In Canada, it is commonly understood that degrees are granted by universities. Colleges are known to offer certificates for one-year programs and diplomas for two and three-year programs. In addition, provincial governments have chartered selected colleges to grant degrees. This is the case for Providence in that we operate under a charter of the Government of Manitoba to grant certificates, diplomas and degrees at the undergraduate (Bachelor) level and the graduate (masters, doctoral) levels. Until the 1990s, the College concentrated on the Bachelor of Religious Education and the Bachelor of Theology as they corresponded most closely with our origins in the Bible College movement. Liberal Arts courses were added because they were seen as valid in their own right, not only as complements to the religious studies focus.
At the present, our standard college degree is the arts degree – the B.A. We have responded to interest in a closer relationship to the curriculum of the university and as early as 1991 arranged for transfer of credit for some of our Providence courses to the University of Manitoba. Because the University of Manitoba is our provincial university, this also opened up transfer to other universities in Canada. Since 1991 we have been increasing the number of courses that transfer when our students move on to universities. At this point, approximately two-thirds of our courses are transferable to the University of Manitoba. The Registrar, the Academic Dean and the faculty work together to achieve the best possible results for our students.
At this time, many students transfer to and from institutions before completing their degrees and we are working to support our students in their transfer. We have documents that outline the transfer potential/requirements for specific programs as well as instructions about how students can maximize their potential for transferability.
An increasing number of universities and other post-graduate level institutions are accepting Providence students on the strength of the degree they earned at Providence. These universities include Regent College in Vancouver, University of Chicago in Illinois, Seton Hall in New Jersey, and University of Manchester in England.
Can a professional study program be started at Providence?
Providence College helps students form their worldview in a supportive environment, grow in faith, make friends for life, and take a variety of courses with qualified instructors who share a strong commitment to Christianity. With careful planning these courses can then lead into undergraduate professional study at public universities. Find more information at Transfer Programs.
Do Providence College degrees qualify students to study at seminaries?
As seminaries generally require a completed undergraduate degree for entrance into seminary programs, all Providence College degrees qualify students for entry into seminary studies. More particularly, Providence College's majors in areas such as Biblical and Theological Studies, Youth Leadership, Worship Studies, Church Ministry and Bachelor of Theology lead very naturally into seminary studies.
What can a student do to optimize course transferability?
For information about how to best prepare for this, please see Transferring to Another Institution Such as a University.
What opportunities for Christian spiritual growth are offered at Providence?
At Providence, we care deeply about the spiritual development and faith formation of our community and we offer many opportunities for you to form your spiritual life and faith through the integration of faith with course work, critical thought, community living, and the wider world.
General Information
Location
Where is Otterburne?
If you are driving from the east or west on Highway #1, take Highway #101 (Perimeter Highway around Winnipeg), turn south off #101 onto Highway #59. Follow it south 50 kilometers to Otterburne Road. Turn west, go 5 kms, and you’re here! For a map to our campus, click here.
Transportation
Can I be picked up at the airport?
Transportation to the Providence Campus can be provided for you from three locations in Winnipeg: the Airport, the Bus Depot, and the Railway Station. You need to inform us of your confirmed travel arrangements at least three days in advance. To arrange for this service, please fill out our Transportation Request form. To answer any questions you may have, please e-mail transportation@prov.ca.
Do I have to pay to park on campus?
Yes. A parking spot with an electrical plug-in (for your blockheater in the winter), is $100 per year. For a parking spot without an electrical plug-in, it is $40 per year. Every vehicle on campus must be registered under one of the above two options. Visitors are not required to pay, but must still register their vehicle each time they are on campus.
Activities
What types of athletics can I be involved in?
There are many sports you can be involved in at Providence College. There are several varsity teams you try-out for, they are as follows: Men’s Basketball, Women’s Basketball, Men’s Volleyball, Women’s Volleyball, Men’s Soccer, Women’s Soccer, and Men’s Hockey. There are also club teams that you can be a part of: badminton, indoor soccer and women’s hockey. For more information regarding different teams and tryout times contact one of our coaches.
Please Note: Both Men's and Women's Soccor tryouts begin before Fall registration. For times, dates and location, please contact Martin Ward (Men's Soccer) or Scott Masterson (Women's Soccer)
Are there fitness facilities?
Yes. A brand new 2500 sq/ft facility opened in 2009! There is an extensive amount of commercial grade cardio and strength training equipment available as well as an aerobic workout area. Membership fees are extremely affordable.
Where do students hang out on campus?
A lot of students make use of the new Reimer Student Life Centre, which is our 'greenest' building on campus thanks to a geothermal heating system. The Student Centre, which opened in January of 2009, provides a great venue for the cafeteria, student lounges and English Language Institute. Students use the Centre for events and concerts, meeting with friends, playing pool, studying, watching TV, or surfing the internet through wireless access. Check out pictures on the Providence website.
What type of Fine Arts can I get involved in?
Providence College has a variety of touring ensembles that students can be involved in. Consider being a part of the College Singers, the College Choir or an instrumental ensemble. For more information about these and other opportunities, check out our Touring Ensembles page. Auditions will be taking place during the first week of school.
Employment
I would like a job on-campus, how do I go about getting one?
There are a number of jobs on campus to be had. Check them out at our Student Employment page.
I am a student of Providence Theological Seminary and I would like some help on my Resume as well as well as some Job finding help, who should I see?
Both our staff in Careeer Services and Employment Services would be more than willing to assist you. Click here for more information.
Finances
Can you tell me approximately how much each year will cost?
Please check out our current tuition and fee schedule available on our Financial Information page.
When am I expected to pay this?
Your first semester bill must be paid in full by the Friday of the first week of the semester. You may use cash, cheque, Visa, Mastercard, Interac or Online Payment. Further information about payment of fees is available on our Financial Information page.
How can I apply for a Student Loan?
If you did not make as much money over the summer as you hoped, you may require a student loan. Students should apply on-line (on-line applications require 2-3 weeks for processing). Please note that student loans will not cover your entire schooling cost.
For more information, please contact:
Manitoba: www.studentaid.gov.mb.ca 1-800-204-1685
Saskatchewan: www.student-loans.sk.ca
Alberta: www.alis.gov.ab.ca
British Columbia: www.aved.gov.bc.ca/studentservices
Ontario: www.osap.gov.on.ca
Quebec: www.afe.gouv.qc.ca
Newfoundland and Labrador: www.edu.gov.nf.ca
New Brunswick: www.studentaid.gnb.ca
Nova Scotia: www.studentloans.ednet.ns.ca
Prince Edward Island: www.gov.pe.ca
Nunavut: www.gov.nu.ca
Northwest Territories: www.nwtsfa.gov.nt.ca
Yukon: www.education.gov.yk.ca
US Students: www.fafsa.ed.gov
Note: You should apply for your loan as soon as possible. This will allow the Student Financial Assistance Office to calculate your award and notify you before you register.
Where do I find more information about Financial Aid?
Please see our Scholarship/Bursaries page for more information.
Residence
When are residence rooms assignment made?
Rooms are assigned by the Residence Directors and are usually done by mid-August. If you have any requests or questions, call or email: Women - Andrea Wheeldon, Brenda Peters, Men - Matt Shantz.
What is a Resident Assistant?
The Resident Assistant has an important role in the Residence Life Program and in the lives of students. As a student leader the RA facilitates community in the residence halls through building relationships and providing relevant programming for the individual on his/her floor. They lead Monday Night Care Group and are there to enrich your residence experience. Their desire is to see you grow and develop in all areas of your life - spiritually, emotionally, physically, socially, and intellectually.
How is the residence rooms set-up?
Each of our residence halls is set up for double occupancy, and therefore includes two beds, two desks, two desk chairs, and shelving, storage and closet space adequate for two people.
Bergen Hall (Men’s residence):
Rooms are furnished with twin captain’s beds, two desks, shelving units mounted on the desks, and desk chairs. All furniture is moveable, allowing students to rearrange their room. Roommates share a closet, which is approximately 6" wide and 2" deep with a double row of shelves. Each room has its own washroom, which includes a shower, toilet, sink, cabinet and shelves. On each floor there are sub-lounges; lounges include a fridge, microwave, couches, coffee tables and chairs. In the basement you will find a laundry room with three washing machines as well as 3 dryers available at a minimal cost.
Four-Plexes (Men’s and Women’s residence):
Rooms are furnished with either, loft beds (Kindred/Sweet) or bunk beds (Cundy/Pearce/ Turner), two desks, two desk chairs, and shelf space. Beneath the lower bunk are three drawers, which must be shared between the roommates. Underneath each of the loft beds is a 3-drawer dresser. Each room has one closet, which is approximately 4" wide and 2" deep, with either one or two shelves. Each suite (four rooms) shares a lounge and two bathrooms (bathrooms include, a sink, toilet, a bathtub with a shower, and a cabinet). Each lounge is furnished with couches, coffee table and chairs. The lounge on the lower floor also has a fridge, which is shared with the residents on the upper floor. On the lower level you will find a laundry room with a washing machine as well as a dryer, which is available at a minimal cost.
Eichhorst Hall (Women’s residence):
Rooms are furnished with twin captain’s beds, two closets and 3 book shelves for each person. A desk top runs the entire length of the far side of the room, with desk drawers underneath, providing ample work and storage space. Two rooms share a bathroom (bathrooms include a sink, toilet, a bathtub with a shower, and a cabinet) and each floor has their own lounge. The lounges are furnished with a fridge, microwave, couches, coffee table and chairs. In two of the lower level hallways you will find a laundry room with a washing machine as well as a dryer, which is available at a minimal cost.
What is needed in Residence?
Here is a start:
- Bedding-sheets, blankets, pillows, etc. (to fit a twin bed)
- Towels
- Laundry soap
Cost: $1.00 for the washing machine, $.25 for every 15 minutes use of the dryer - Alarm clock
- Posters/pictures
- Stereo
- Dishes, mugs, etc
- Sticky tack
- Clothes hangers
- Cleaning supplies
Can I use a computer in my residence room?
Absolutely! Students are welcome to bring their own personal computers as all rooms have access to the Internet. Internet access is available through the Providence Bookstore here. If you do not presently own a computer, you may use the computers in the computer lab and library (printing charges do apply).
Will there be a phone in my room?
No, but each room is equipped with a telephone jack. You may bring your own phone and hook it up through Manitoba Telecom Systems (MTS). Information regarding hook-up though MTS will be available upon arrival. Cost is approximately $60.00 per month. Pay phones are also available in each dorm and they do accept incoming calls. Students are encouraged to use calling cards for these phones.
What is the residence environment like?
Providence College has a strong community setting; it is often referred by students as a family environment. Residence brings a strong impact to this environment. There is a weekly floor meeting where the Resident Assistant leads Care Group, which is a time of fellowship and spending time with one another. As well brother and sister floors join together to pray for one another and have activities together throughout the year. Overall residence is a great environment for students to get to know one another. If you have more questions please see the 
Student Handbook.
Who provides your food services on campus?
Sodexho provides all the food services on campus.
Commuters
What About Commuters?
Commuters are those who drive in for classes and who are not living in residence halls. We want to do all we can to integrate commuters into community life here at Providence. At the start of each semester a commuter carpool meeting takes place to help students plan rides. For more information, please click here.
Future Students
Otterburne, Manitoba, Canada, R0A 1G0
Phone: (204) 433-7488 or (800) 668-7768
Fax: (204) 433-7158
