Vancouver Island Unversity

Known as a centre of excellence for teaching, applied research and learning, Vancouver Island University (VIU) is producing quality graduates who are in demand among employers across the country and around the world. VIU offers programs that include graduate and undergraduate degrees, vocational programs and trades, as well as access programs at three campuses and one centre: a main campus in Nanaimo; regional campuses in Duncan and Powell River; and a centre in Parksville-Qualicum.

With roots that date back to 1936, VIU is today a dynamic, internationally known university supporting a student population of 18,000 full- and part-time learners, including 1,800 international students and approximately 2,000 Indigenous students. VIU is deeply connected to coastal and First Nations communities throughout Vancouver Island and British Columbia and Indigenous education is a priority at all of the campuses.

The University offers a wide range of academic, applied, career/technical, vocational and developmental programs. Opportunities for undergraduate learning include traditional disciplines such as arts and sciences as well as practical skills training in health, education, business, graphics, interior design and many other fields. VIU offers six master’s degrees in a variety of programs.

As well, one of VIU’s core values is providing access to quality post-secondary education for non-traditional learners who face a variety of barriers. In 2013, VIU became the first BC post-secondary institution to offer a tuition waiver program for students who were former youth in care.Other VIU facilities include Milner Gardens and Woodland and Deep Bay Marine Field Station, a research facility which supports coastal and marine research.

Another key research institute is the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region Research Institute (www.mabr.ca) which supports student focused and community based research and explores issues relevant to the UNESCO designated biosphere region.