post secondary education in vancouver bc

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Post-secondary education systems, programs and credentials differ from province to province. In B.C., the post-secondary education system is integrated, which means that:

• B.C. has a well-established transfer and articulation system among post-secondary institutions
• Colleges and institutes can also offer degree programs
• Different types of institutions offer a range of education and training options

Different Types of Post-secondary Institutions in B.C. 

• Public post-secondary institutions  are authorized under provincial legislation to deliver post-secondary education and training in B.C.
• Private and out-of-province public degree-granting institutions are authorized to deliver degree programs in B.C. under the Degree Authorization Act
• Private training institutions are regulated under the Private Training Act – the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) administers how standards for these schools are met*
• Theological institutions in B.C. have statutory authority under a Private Act to offer specific programs
• Aboriginal-controlled post-secondary institutes  offer courses and programs to adult Aboriginal learners

* Language training institutions may voluntarily apply to be regulated if they wish to host international students on study permits.

Search for Post-secondary Institutions

Use the following list to look up post-secondary institutions authorized to offer post-secondary education in B.C. 

Note: With the exception of the public post-secondary institutions, this list is not exhaustive, and s tudents must check with their institution to make sure it meets quality education standards or is authorized to grant degrees in B.C. 

To view the level of credentials offered by different types of authorized post-secondary institutions, click here .

B.C. Public Post-secondary Institutions

Private and Out-of-Province Public Degree-Granting Institutions

Private Training Institutions (includes regulated Private Language Institutions)

Please visit PTIB  for a list of certified institutions.

Theological Institutions

Aboriginal-Controlled Post-secondary Institutes

Please visit the Indigenous Adult & Higher Learning Association (IAHLA) for a list of member institutes.

Be an Informed Student

Make sure the institution you select offers a credential that meets both your learning objectives and career goals. Before you enrol, be sure that the institution meets quality education standards and is authorized to grant degrees in B.C.

• Learn about Education Quality Assurance  
• View registry of BC EQA designated institutions (PDF)  
• See which institutions are NOT authorized to grant degrees  

Related Links

• Create a personal learning plan  
• Transcripts and credentials  
• Apply online for some post-secondary programs  

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Most jobs in B.C. require some form of education or training. Get qualified through a variety of post-secondary options – from apprenticeships to university programs.

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You can pursue post-secondary education at B.C. institutions through a range of delivery options, including:

• B.C.’s post-secondary institutions – Learn about post-secondary institutions in B.C., including public post-secondary institutions, private and out-of-province public degree-granting institutions, private training institutions, theological institutions and Indigenous-controlled post-secondary institutes. Discover the range of university, college and institute education options B.C. has to offer.
• Study or work abroad – Experience a different culture, gain skills and develop contacts by studying or working abroad as part of your education program. Many of B.C.’s public post-secondary institutions offer study and work opportunities abroad.
• Distance education – Find out about distance education programs and courses in B.C.
• Adult upgrading – Learn about programs that can help you upgrade or complete high school.

Are you starting your post-secondary journey?

• Changing location.
• Living on your own.
• Facing new academic challenges.
• Juggling school and work demands.
• Managing your money.

The guide From Surviving to Thriving: Developing Personal and Academic Resilience (PDF) gives you resources, checklists, worksheets, a coping strategies planner, and a choice of four strategies for managing stressful situations. From Surviving to Thriving can help you prepare for challenges and pressures that may arise. The guide will help you identify your personal strengths and develop strategies to manage stress, address challenges and reduce worry and fear. Know when and where to ask for help, and build a network of people for mutual support.

Find an education program

Use these resources to navigate B.C.’s post-secondary options and choose the institutions or programs you need:

• EducationPlannerBC – Search for programs at B.C. post-secondary institutions based on your interests, type of credential and other factors.
• The Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills  – Find information to help choose a program or institution. Information is also available on how to be an informed student.
• SkilledTradesBC – Get information on more than 100 apprenticeship programs that can lead you to a career as a trades worker or technician.
• The Private Training Institutions Branch – Find information on programs offered at over 300 private training institutions.
• BC Transfer Guide – Find out how to get credit at one institution for a course you took at another institution.
• Distance education – Stay in your own community and continue your education full or part-time through online or distance education. On EducationPlannerBC, use "distance education" as a search term to discover programs and courses at post-secondary institutions across the province. You can also visit the distance education section of the institutional website of your choice to explore online and distance education options. You might also check out Thompson Rivers University Open Learning , which has a mandate to serve the open learning needs of the province.
• Adult upgrading – Upgrade or complete high school level courses to give yourself more options, such as for work opportunities or furthering your education. Learn about adult graduation, free assessments or tutoring and other possibilities. Find a post-secondary institution or school near you that offers adult upgrading courses .
• Co-operative education – Many public post-secondary institutions offer co-operative (“co-op”) education programs, which let you integrate paid, relevant work experience with your program of study.
• Prospective Students Guide (PDF)​​ – Plan ahead for the next step based on your interests, finances and other factors.

Post-secondary student outcomes

Which education programs lead to good jobs? Which programs produce grads who are ready for employment? Whether you are planning your career or looking for new employees, you’ll want to know the outcomes of B.C.’s post-secondary education programs. Through a series of province-wide annual surveys, you can find out what former students had to say about their education and learn:

• If they are working in jobs related to their education.
• The income they make after they complete a program.
• Further education they take after leaving a program.
• If they are satisfied with the education they received.

Most students (92%) who took part in a 2018 BC Student Outcomes survey were “very satisfied” or “satisfied” with the education they received. Graduates had an unemployment rate between 4.3% and 9.9%, depending on the type of program. The BC Student Outcomes Highlights reports these and other results from a series of annual surveys of former B.C. post-secondary students who took baccalaureate programs; associate degree, diploma or certificate programs; and apprenticeship, trades foundation or trades-related vocational training. The BC Student Outcomes Dashboard provides an interactive summary of survey results from former students who attended a post-secondary institution in B.C. (not all institutions participated in the Dashboard).

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Looking to the Horizon: Emerging Trends in Post-Secondary Education

    February 7, 2024     BCcampus , Digital Literacy , Facilitating Learning Online (FLO) , Fiscal 2023-2024 , General , Homepage , Learning & Teaching , Mental Health , News , Open Education , Post-Secondary Education , Reports

Post by Amanda Coolidge, executive director, BCcampus

The landscape of British Columbia’s post-secondary education sector is evolving, shaped by innovative approaches and a commitment to student success. As a leader in navigating these changes, BCcampus advances teaching and learning practices through our understanding of the wider context of post-secondary education and through collaboration with post-secondary institutions and partners in the province.

In advance of a strategic planning retreat at the beginning of the year, I researched emerging trends shaping the future of post-secondary education in B.C. and in the country overall to provide context and frame our thinking. The resulting environmental scan reveals a focus not only on educational structures and practices but also on wider issues of the climate crisis and student wellness. Some trends, like uncertainty around international students and the proliferation of generative artificial intelligence in higher education , are already top of mind for people in the post-secondary sector. This blog post looks at other emerging trends informing the post-secondary experience.

Enrolment and Education Levels

Canada performs better than the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) average in graduation numbers when measuring enrolment and education levels. In 2021, the share of adults in Canada with at least a high school education was around 94 per cent. Canada also led the world in 2022 in percentage of the adult population with a tertiary education (a bachelor’s degree or higher), at almost 63 per cent. In 2021, around 66 per cent of Canadians aged 25–34 had a tertiary education. At the provincial and territorial level, B.C. scored the highest on percentage of the population with at least a secondary education in 2021.

Tuition Fees

The rise in tuition fees along with cost-of-living increases are significant concerns for students. The average annual tuition for an undergraduate program nationwide was C$6,834 for the 2022/23 school year. According to Alex Usher, president of strategic policy and research firm Higher Education Strategy Associates, undergraduate tuition fees in B.C. are below the national average (Usher & Balfour, 2023). Despite the rising cost of post-secondary education, it remains a valuable investment for Canadians. The unemployment rate for adults with only a high school diploma was 9.8 per cent in 2021, compared with 5.1 per cent among those with a university education.

Climate Crisis

The climate crisis presents an imminent and escalating threat to the planet, demanding urgent action. On campuses around the province, students are clearly voicing their demands for transformational societal change to address the climate crisis. In response, B.C. institutions, like others around the world , are grappling with ways to incorporate and give prominence to these serious issues.

Some post-secondary institutions are considering making it a requirement for students to take an introductory course on climate change. Others are increasing their course offerings examining the relationship between social and natural causes of climate change. The B.C. institutions with the highest number of related programs on climate change and sustainability include the British Columbia Institute of Technology, Vancouver Island University, Coast Mountain College, and North Island College.

“Everyone is going to need to understand [climate change] the same way you’d assume everyone in business needs to have some fluency in social media today, or that everyone would be able to use a computer 20 years ago.” — Andrew S. Winston, The Big Pivot: Radically Practical Strategies for a Hotter, Scarcer, and More Open World

New Forms of Learning and Student Needs

Institutions are innovating and diversifying the teaching and learning methods they use to provide high-quality instruction to students. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, online learning had been increasing in prevalence in Canadian institutions for many years, with most Canadian institutions offering at least some form of online learning and enrolment in online courses growing annually.

Post-secondary Digitization

Post-secondary institutions in Canada are also pursuing ways to digitize their administrative responsibilities toward prospective students and alumni. This includes the initial intake of prospective students’ academic documents in the admission process, and the issuing of official transcripts and degree certificates to their own alumni and other organizations requesting the documents.

Credentialing Alternatives

Work-integrated or experiential learning — where students participate in a range of different types of work placements (e.g., co-ops, practicums, applied research projects) as part of their program — is supported by provinces and territories because it has demonstrated improved learning and labour market outcomes, and is already prevalent at institutions across Canada. Lifelong learning has become vital; with the rate of change, workers will require ongoing education.

“Twenty years from now, lines between people’s learning and working lives will be increasingly joined. Learning will not be something you graduate from to transition to a job but will be a lifelong journey of upskilling and micro-credentialing to keep up with exponential advances in technology and changes in the workplace that will build a better economy and society.” — KPMG, 20 Predictions for the Next 20 Years

Access and Affordability

Access and affordability have been a major focus for post-secondary institutions. Several provinces and territories have supported institutions in increasing post-secondary participation of under-represented groups, such as low-income students, students whose parents did not attend post-secondary education, students with disabilities, and Indigenous students.

To do this, provinces and territories have introduced both financial supports (e.g., scholarships, bursaries, grants) and non-financial supports (e.g., academic upgrading, bridging programs). In recent years, many provinces and territories have been experimenting with providing targeted free tuition in the form of student financial aid for lower-income students that matches, or exceeds, the cost of average tuition. BCcampus helps students save money through open textbooks , which are in the open domain and available to anyone. This program has saved students over $36,143,421 since 2012.

Student Mental Health and Well-being

People aged 15–24 are more likely to experience mental health issues than any other age group and comprise a significant portion of the post-secondary student body. At the pan-Canadian level, in 2020 the Mental Health Commission of Canada released the National Standard of Canada for Mental Health and Well-Being for Post-Secondary Students . Institutional initiatives such as on-campus counselling, peer support groups, academic preparation sessions, and other services are meant to ensure mentally healthy and fulfilling environments for all students.

Continue the Conversation

As we contemplate the future of post-secondary education in B.C., BCcampus is a catalyst for positive change. Through collaborative efforts and innovative programs, BCcampus is helping to support a dynamic and inclusive educational landscape. Students can look forward to a future that not only is relevant and flexible but also prioritizes their well-being and gives them the skills and experience to succeed.

To contribute to the ongoing conversation, join me for a discussion with Dr. Nicole Johnson , executive director at the Canadian Digital Learning Research Association. Together, we will dive into the details of An Increasing Demand for Technology Use in Teaching and Learning , the 2023 Pan-Canadian report on digital learning trends in Canadian post-secondary education. This comprehensive report explores many of the topics revealed by the environmental scan, including online and hybrid learning, technologies used in teaching, student attitudes, and professional development.

We hope that by joining us, you will gain valuable insights and participate in an engaging discussion that will help shape the future of learning in British Columbia.  

• Usher, A., & Balfour, J. (2023). The state of postsecondary education in Canada, 2023 . Higher Education Strategy Associates. Retrieved from https://higheredstrategy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SPEC-2023_v3.pdf
• The Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials(2021). Postsecondary education systems in Canada. Retrieved from https://www.cicic.ca/1246/issues_and_trends.canada

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Education: Secondary

Prepare to teach one or two teachable subjects in Grades 8 to 12 as a secondary school teacher. During this program, teacher candidates are introduced to adolescent development and prepared methodologically to teach their subject(s). You’ll be grouped according to your teachable subject (i.e. Math, English, Physical Education).

This program is also offered at UBC's Okanagan Campus

Why this program.

• UBC Education has BC's only fully specialized secondary teacher education program (in 30 teachable subject areas).
• UBC Education has Canada’s only IBO-recognized teacher education program. Secondary teacher candidates receive an IB Certificate in Teaching and Learning for Middle Years Programme or Diploma Programme in addition to the Bachelor of Education degree.
• Professional learning and development is supported throughout the program, including professional learning sessions with special guest educators.

Program information

• Campus: Vancouver
• Length 11 mos
• Co-op Yes You can combine your studies with full-time, paid work at top local and international organizations.
• Honours No You can study intense specialization in a single field.

UBC’s BEd degree is globally recognized, and open to international students. The BEd Secondary option prepares pre-service educators in curriculum, instruction, and foundational coursework with a focus on teaching one or two subjects: Art, Business Education, Culinary Arts Education, Computer Science, English Language Learner Education, English, French, Home Economics, Mathematics, Modern Languages, Music Education, Physical Education, Science (Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Earth Science, Physics), Social Studies (History, Geography, and Social Science), Technology Education, and Theatre.

As well, UBC offers the only International Baccalaureate Educator program. Teacher candidates who successfully complete the requirements for the BEd Secondary program are recommended to the BC Teacher Regulation Branch for a professional teaching certificate. UBC’s BEd degree is globally recognized, and the program is open to international students.

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Experiential learning

All UBC teacher candidates participate in an inquiry seminar in each of the three terms on campus, developing the habit of asking critical questions about their pedagogical decisions and practices.

The practicum includes a full day in schools each week starting in September or October, followed by a two-week school placement in November, which is also the setting for the 10-week extended practicum in the spring.

The teaching practicum is an exciting part of the Bachelor of Education program because it is the time when teacher candidates put theory into practice alongside an experienced teacher.

Community Field Experience (CFE)

Following successful completion of a school-based extended practicum, all teacher candidates participate in a three-week Community Field Experience.

Some field experiences take place in a school context that is very different from the extended practicum site, and others take place in non-school-based contexts such as museums, science centres, environmental ed camps, Indigenous communities, daycares, and more.

• Inquiry seminars
• Community field experience
• Professional development opportunities

Life at UBC's Vancouver campus

Teacher candidates gain firsthand knowledge experiencing the benefits of outdoor learning, place-based learning, and social and emotional learning as students at UBC's beautiful Vancouver campus. The Faculty of Education's sterling reputation and strong ties to local and rural school districts and over 240 community partners in the Lower Mainland positions teacher candidates for success.

Your future

Many UBC BEd alumni go on to teach in local public and independent schools, while others decide to venture beyond BC’s Lower Mainland to teach in rural or international locations. The concept of an educational setting is far reaching, and many alumni find careers in non-school-based contexts (i.e. arts organizations, science centres, non-profit organizations, etc.). UBC BEd alumni include the Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau, Juno-nominee and children’s entertainer Will Stroet, along with multiple school administrators, writers, and leaders in education.

Program graduates

• Senior school learning support teacher, Mulgrave School
• Teacher, St. George's School
• Teacher, Crofton House School
• Associate teacher, Collingwood School
• Teacher, IB-PYP School, Germany

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You’ll find these pages helpful, meet syahidah, and find out how she stays connected to her singapore roots at ubc, ready to choose your degree.

About education in British Columbia

British Columbia is one of the world’s most popular destinations for international students because of our world-renowned education and transfer system.

Photo: Thompson Rivers University

BC’s education system is among the most respected in the world

It’s also home to a world-acclaimed transfer system, which means you can move easily from one qualification level to the next and from one post-secondary institution to another. This gives you the flexibility to choose the study path that best suits your educational goals.

Post-secondary international students can transfer between programs of study and institutions without applying for changes to their study permits. For more information about transferring between institutions in BC, visit the British Columbia Council on Admissions and Transfer (BCCAT) .

Elementary and secondary schools

In BC, children between the ages of 5 and 18 attend Kindergarten to Grade 12 programs at either an  elementary or secondary school. Parents can choose to enrol their child in either a public or independent school that offers these programs. There are approximately 360 independent schools and about 1,590 public schools.

Many schools provide support services for students whose first language is not English. There are both short- and long-term program options.

Post-secondary institutions

BC is the first province in Canada to provide students with a globally recognized seal of quality for post-secondary education, the Education Quality Assurance (EQA) designation.

When you choose an institution with the EQA designation, you can be assured that it has met or exceeded government quality assurance standards and offers consumer protection.

Universities

Teaching and research universities offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs at both the Masters and PhD levels. Some also offer diplomas and certificates in professional fields, as well as continuing education programs.

Colleges and institutes

Colleges provide courses and programs in trades, vocational, career technical, and academic studies leading to certificates, diplomas, associate degrees, and applied degrees. They also offer programs that prepare adult learners for post-secondary studies. Some college programs allow you to transfer into university programs to complete an undergraduate degree. Institutes are organized according to career, vocational, and technical specialties, covering a variety of occupations. They may offer credentials from certificates to degrees.

Degree granting private and non-BC public institutions

Private and out-of-province public institutions must be authorized by the government to deliver degree programs. This ensures you have access to a top-notch post-secondary system.

For a current list of institutions and programs that have received ministerial consent, visit the  Degree Authorization  website.

Private career and language training

Privately-operated career and language training institutions offer non-degree level programs in a variety of areas of study. In BC, private training institutions require a certificate under the  Private Training Act if they provide, or offer to provide, at least one career-related program with 40 hours or more of instructional time, and tuition costing at least $4000.

The sector is regulated by the  Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) , which is responsible for:

• Ensuring institutions meet the requirements and standards for certification; and,
• Providing student protection and overseeing the Student Tuition Protection Fund.

PTIB also maintains a  Private Training Institution Directory  of all certified institutions and the programs they provide, along with formerly certified institutions.

Distance and online learning

You may also choose to earn your BC qualification without leaving home through online distance and supported open learning (also called distributed learning). This is a great option if you can’t afford to take time out of work for full-time study.

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Copyright © 2021 British Columbia Council for International Education. All rights reserved. The StudyinBC website is produced by the British Columbia Council for International Education with support from the Province of British Columbia.

Post-Secondary Institutions of BC

Welcome to post secondary bc (psbc), for the information of our member institutions.

PSBC, formed in 1974, is an informal collaborative of recruitment offices from BC public post-secondary institutions. Regular Membership in PSBC is only open to publicly funded universities, colleges and institutes in the province of British Columbia. Regular Membership is also considered for publicly funded agencies or departments of a government Ministry directly involved in the delivery of post-secondary education and training. All PSBC members are required to abide by the PSBC Code of Conduct, and membership in PSBC can be revoked at any time at the discretion of the Executive Committee.

A limited number of private, non-profit institutions in BC may be considered for membership if they are members of at least one of the two national post-secondary organizations in Canada: Universities Canada or CICan (Colleges and Institutes Canada). Private for-profit institutions are not eligible for membership and total membership in PSBC is limited to 30, based on the limitations of high schools to accommodate large numbers of institutions during the annual fall schedule.

The PSBC Fall School Visit Program

PSBC exists solely to provide students and high school counsellors in BC with information about options in the public post-secondary education. For over 40 years the program has co-ordinated a fall schedule of visits to BC high schools to provide Grade 11 and 12 students and high school counsellors with updated information from member institutions to assist them with planning for post-secondary study.

School visits take place between mid-September and early December. The schedule is managed online on this closed website to provide you – our members – with all the information you need to participate. Under no circumstances are member institutions allowed to share access to this website, or share any of the information on this website with individuals or institutions who are not members of PSBC. All member institutions and their representatives are also expected to abide by the regulations governing the appropriate use of data, per CASL, as outlined in the PSBC Code of Conduct.

PSBC members can make relevant program and event information from their own institution available to counsellors, students and parents on our public website: www.postsecondarybc.ca

Our Members

Vancouver Island University

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Student Inquiries

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Applications for Admission to Fall 2024 at Vancouver Island University open October 1, 2023 .

Vancouver Island University is nestled on a mountainside overlooking the Salish Sea on the West Coast of Canada. Here inspiration is around every corner, every tree and every open door. It’s a place you’ll make real connections—on campus, in community and with the land.

We help you explore your interests and learn the skills you need to create the future you want. We’re here to support your success with:

• expert professors who care about your learning — and remember your name
• practical, hands-on experiences — in every program
• a community that values diversity — and celebrates differences

Walking together we achieve success. Our expertise becomes action, and we make a difference for our students, for our communities and for our planet.

VIU Recruiters are available to connect with future students and help schools prepare students to transition to university. To discuss admissions, the application process or any questions you or your students might have, email the Office of Future Students at [email protected]  or call 250.740.6672.

Students who have applied and are ready to plan September 2024 can email Advising at [email protected] .  Educational Advisors are available to serve students by phone, email or a one-on-one Zoom appointment.

For application status and documentation questions, call Registration at 250.740.6400 or email  [email protected] .

Enrolment Total

Detailed costs, campus locations, nanaimo campus.

900 Fifth Street, Nanaimo, BC

Cowichan Campus

2011 University Way, Duncan, BC

tiwšɛmawtxw

100 - 7085 Nootka Street, Powell River, BC

Parksville-Qualicum Centre

100 Jensen Avenue East, Parksville, BC

900 Fifth Street Nanaimo, BC

2011 University Way Duncan, BC

100 - 7085 Nootka Street Powell River, BC

100 Jensen Avenue East Parksville, BC

Nearby Highlights

Vancouver Island one of the most beautiful places on Earth. When you live here, your options for fun and adventure are limited only by your imagination! You have easy access to outdoor activities like kayaking, rock climbing, hiking and beach trips. Ski and surf adventures are less than a day of travel away. You can also enjoy dining, live music, theatre, museums, galleries and Indigenous cultural experiences in the nearby communities.

Campus Tours

Varsity athletics, featured programs, bachelor of business administration.

VIU prepares you to be a leader who can succeed in an ever-changing global environment. The Bachelor of Business Education program offers a well-rounded business education with a focus on: • global business operations • emerging markets • technology-enabled organizations The four-year program features real-world projects that train you to think creatively. You develop management, problem-solving and communication skills. You can take electives in other areas of study to explore how they relate to business. And you’ll graduate with all the tools you need to achieve your business goals.

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Satisfy your desire to make a difference with a Nursing degree. VIU’s Bachelor of Nursing (BSN) program is based on the concepts of care and health promotion. The program covers core concepts in nursing such as

• leadership • advocacy • political action • nursing knowledge development • nursing scholarship

The program emphasizes hands-on experience with a mix of classroom, lab and practicum learning.

When you graduate, you’ll be eligible to write the National Council Licensure Examination Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). And you can apply for nursing registration through the BC College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM).

Computer Science (BSc) Program

The VIU Computer Science (BSc) program offers a competitive advantage in this rapidly growing field. When you’re accepted into the program you’re guaranteed seats in the classes you need to graduate on time.

The course work meets the requirements of: • Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS) • Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) • Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)

The program also features optional co-operative education.

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Study Abroad Opportunities

Exchange is your opportunity to

• have an adventure
• earn transfer credit towards your degree,
• connect with the global campus community
• gain a whole new perspective on your education and career

VIU can help you arrange to study in English at one of more than 20 partner universities around the world for 1 or 2 semesters. Education Abroad can direct you to external scholarships and awards, including the One World Scholarship of $2,000-$5,000 with 2 application intakes per year and Global Skills Opportunity Travel Grants, launching soon.

Study Abroad Info

Basic admissions requirements.

Canadian citizens and permanent residents in Canada are eligible for admission to academic programs if you meet one of the following conditions:

• graduation from a BC secondary school, or equivalent, with a minimum “C” grade in either English 12 or English 12 First Peoples
• previous degree from a recognized university
• visiting student from a college or university (you’ll need a letter of permission from the home institution)
• transfer student from a college or university (at least 24 transferable university-level credits completed)
• mature student— 21 years of age (or will turn 21 during your first semester) and a minimum “C” grade in English 12 or English 12 First Peoples

For more details, see the admission requirements page on our website.

IB and AP Credits

VIU recognizes the  International Baccalaureate  (IB) and  Advanced Placement Programs (APP). You may receive university level credit under the following conditions:

• Specific Higher Level (HL) IB courses with grades of 5 or better, and/or specific APP courses with grades of 4 or better, will be eligible for introductory-level university course credit.  See Advanced Placement Program courses.
• A maximum of 30 credits will be awarded for IB/APP courses.
• IB/APP credits will be noted on your permanent record (transcript), but no grades will be recorded, and there will be no GPA implications.
• You can enroll in courses for which credit has been granted; however, credit may be applied only once towards a degree, diploma, or certificate.

English Proficiency Requirements

Many programs and courses at VIU, including all first-year English courses, require English 12, with a minimum grade of “C.”

Acceptable alternatives to English 12 include:

• BC Secondary School First Peoples’ English 12
• VIU’s ENGL 067, and ENGL 068
• ESLU 051 and ESLU 052  (VIU’s English as a Second Language University Preparation Level 5)

Students who do not meet this English 12 requirement, but who believe they have the necessary level of competency, may write an assessment test . There are currently three acceptable tests to show equivalency to English 12:

• ACCUPLACER Next Generation test – for English 12 equivalency, you need a minimum score of 260 on the Reading Comprehension section, a minimum score of 250 on the Sentence Skills section, and at least 5 on the Writeplacer.
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) – for English 12 equivalency you need a score of 59 overall and component scores of at least 56.
• Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB) – for English 12 equivalency, you need a score of 81.

Application Deadline

VIU begins accepting applications in early October. Most programs have an application deadline of March 31.

Need help? Contact a  VIU Recruiter .

Application Fee

A non-refundable, non-transferable application fee is required for each application. If you submit the application by mail, attach a cheque or money order payable to Vancouver Island University. If payment is not attached, we will mail you details regarding other payment options once we have completed initial processing of your application.

Program Type Fees Undergraduate $44.27 Graduate Programs $114.83

How to Apply

VIU uses British Columbia’s centralized online application service EducationPlannerBC.

Start Your Application to VIU

You can also download an application form. You can email the completed form or delivered it to any campus.

Within two weeks of receiving your submission, we will send you a letter acknowledging receipt of your application. We will also notify you of any next steps . Applicants are considered for admission only when VIU has received all required information and documentation.

Admissions Contact Email

Admissions contact phone, entrance scholarships available, entrance scholarships deadline, viu entrance scholarships & awards – deadline: march 30.

These scholarships and awards are available for:

• Current Grade 12 High School students, who will be graduating in the current academic year, and commencing studies at VIU within the upcoming year; OR
• Students enrolling in a full time university or trades program, for the very first time since high school; OR
• Students who have had an interruption of university studies, (more than one year), and will be re-entering full time studies to complete their university program. You must have a VIU Student Number to apply! If you do not have one you will need to first submit an  Application to VIU .
• Log onto your  VIU Student Record
• Click on Scholarship / Award / Bursary Profile
• Answer only the questions relevant to you and upload any supporting information
• Click Save (this will also submit your profile)
• The final information saved will be used for selections
• Profiles are open for entry from September 1 through March 31
• Information  DOES NOT  carry over from year to year
• You must update your profile  EACH YEAR  by the application deadlines
• Profiles are closed to students from April 1st to August 31st for internal updating

Entrance Scholarships Info

Other scholarship info, student loan info, financial aid contact email, financial aid contact phone, first year residence spots, residence options, choose your space.

VIU Residence provides a supportive environment designed to help you adjust to university and enjoy your time as a student. Students who are Residence Advisors live in each area and can connect you to resources and support. Community Leaders are also there to help when you hit a bump in the road or need to vent. They organize fun events and ensure you live in an environment that supports your academic success. The main office of Residence operates a help desk that’s available 24 hours a day.

Residence offers three styles of rooms:

Traditional singles.

A Traditional Single is a private bedroom furnished with a single bed and a desk. All rooms share a bathroom with one other unit.

Modern Singles

A Modern Single feature a private bedroom furnished with a single bed and a desk. All rooms share a bathroom with one other unit.

Modern Doubles

A Modern Double is a shared bedroom furnished with two single beds and two desks. All rooms share a bathroom with one other unit.

Coming in Fall 2025, new residence building with 266 additional student housing beds and a new dining hall.

Total Average Residence Cost

Residence cost details.

• $4,900 for micro double
• $5,330 for the modern double
• $8,530 for traditional singles
• $8,860 for modern singles

Some discounts offered for early payment.

Residence Application Deadline

Apply for residence as soon as you receive your VIU Student Number. While residence accepts applications throughout the year, you must apply by May 1 to be considered for first year priority. If you wait until you are admitted to VIU to apply for residence, you may not get a space.

Once you have received a VIU student number, apply online for residence .

Residence Contact Email

Residence contact phone, accessibility supports & services, accessibility supports & services info.

Accessibility Services at VIU gives students with documented disabilities:

• information, • support services • reasonable accommodations

If you have a disability, you should register with the Accessibility Office soon after you have been accepted. You must complete an intake form and find out about the necessary documentation.

After you’ve submitted the intake form and documentation, staff will contact you. You will have a phone or Zoom appointment with an Access Specialist. This happens about 6-8 week before the start of the semester.

More Accessibility Info

International student info.

We welcome and value the students from around the world. International students help create the rich cultural tapestry on VIU campuses. To learn more, visit the VIU international website .

English Language Requirement

Please visit the International Admissions page to review the undergraduate and graduate level English Language Requirements for admission to Vancouver Island University.

More International Student Info

International students contact email, international students contact phone, search institutions.

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The Post-Secondary Employers' Association (PSEA) is the employer bargaining agent for all public colleges, special-purpose teaching universities, and institutes in British Columbia. These nineteen institutions constitute the BC Post-Secondary sector. They are governed by the College & Institute Act and the University Act , respectively.

PSEA is a Society created under the Public Sector Employers Act . It has been in operation since January 1994 and was officially incorporated in May 1994. On February 4, 2004 by Order in Council, PSEA became the employer bargaining agent for each of its member institutions .

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New B.C. post-secondary schools won’t be allowed to enroll international students for 2 years

By Charlie Carey and Srushti Gangdev

Posted January 29, 2024 9:29 am.

Last Updated January 29, 2024 6:49 pm.

The B.C. government says it’s going to stop approving the establishment of new post-secondary institutions that want to recruit international students for the next two years.

Advanced Education Minister Selina Robinson says it’s part of a move to improve the quality of post-secondary education in the province.

“International students come here for a good education but too many are being exploited or taken advantage of,” Robinson said.

“That’s why we’re introducing more stringent requirements for institutions and robust safeguards to protect international students against bad actors, provide them with a better path to success, and make sure B.C. continues to attract the talented students we need to fill significant gaps in the labour market and drive our economy forward.”

• International students have mixed feelings about visa cap, say system needs review
• B.C. promises to crack down on sub-par schools that target international students
• Canada is capping student visas. Why now? And will it help?
• Feds unfairly targeting newcomers with new study visa cap: advocates

As part of a suite of changes to the province’s higher education sector, the pause of new institutions will continue until February 2026.

The province is also enhancing compliance and enforcement of post-secondary institutes; introducing higher standards for private degree programs; implementing new language requirements for those private institutions; and requiring institutions to publicly post tuition fees for students.

According to the province, more than 545,000 post-secondary students study in B.C., including more than 175,000 from overseas. Approximately 82,000 of those international students learn at public institutions, with the majority — 94,000 — studying at private institutions.

Earlier this month, the federal government announced a cap on the number of international student visas it’ll be issuing for the next two years.

Robinson says the province is working with the government on implementing the new processes to limit visas.

“Together we’re making these changes to benefit international students who come to B.C. from another country, and to put an end to those bad actors who are hurting people and hurting B.C.’s reputation.”

Robinson explains that the number of international students in B.C. has steadily risen over the last decade, however, it has seen an “explosion” since 2020 and the reopening of national borders.

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$2.5M in research funding granted to these Burnaby post-secondary schools

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A pair of Burnaby post-secondaries have been granted more research funding for three projects.

This includes one that involves a new telescope for in-depth space analysis and one that aims to enhance wheelchair capabilities "to help people move better and faster."

Simon Fraser University (SFU) and BCIT earned a combined $2.5 million from the BC. government's latest round of funding, which totalled $52.3 million for 25 research projects at five post-secondary schools.

The money is coming out of the B.C. Knowledge Development Fund (BCKDF), which aims to improve B.C.’s productivity and competitiveness among economies.

Simon Fraser students, thanks to $1 million, are set to install a new neutrino telescope off the coast of Vancouver Island.

Known as the Pacific Ocean Neutrino Experiment Demonstrator, the hope is the machine will reveal insights about the brightest corners of the universe and possibly discover "unknown astronomical phenomena."

The telescope will be set up at Ocean Networks Canada, a provincial news release explained.

"Simon Fraser University is delighted with BCKDF funding support for the Pacific Ocean Neutrino Experiment," said SFU spokesperson Dugan O'Neil.

"This project will leverage research excellence at SFU to expand the foundations of knowledge and advance our understanding of the universe."

As well, SFU received $490,000 for its part in a multi-jurisdictional project that focuses on EMPOWER — Ecocosms and Mesocosms Jointly Predict Ocean Weather and Ecological Response.

Meanwhile, BCIT was injected with $1.011 million in provincial funding to continue its work on advancing wheelchair technologies.

The purpose of assessing advanced mobility devices is to find new ways to conquer "serious drawbacks" and "improve the lives of people with disabilities," BCIT explained in an earlier statement.

Led by Dr. Jaimie Borisoff, the team is set to develop new hybrid-manual wheelchairs with expanded features that allow users to navigate more difficult places like off-road trails and snowy terrain.

Capabilities explored consist of robotic skills for stair-climbing and power assist units similar to ebikes.

"Investment from the governments of Canada and British Columbia enable BCIT students, researchers and faculty to continue to push boundaries and advance applied research in their respective industries," said Jeff Zabudsky, BCIT president.

"Jaimie Borisoff, Barry Pointon and their colleagues embody the BCIT vision of empowering people, shaping B.C. and inspiring global progress."

B.C.'s contribution also comes nearly a month after the federal government handed over more than $1 million towards the wheelchair project, which is a  partnership with  MAKE+  and the University of Manitoba.

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Starting Monday, April 8, 2024, people in British Columbia will have access to a free spring COVID-19 vaccine booster to maintain and extend protection for themselves and their loved ones against serious illnesses from COVID-19.

The spring COVID-19 booster will be available throughout the province at pharmacies, regional health-authority clinics, some primary-care offices, and community health centres. This spring vaccine remains free and available for everyone six months and older.

Given the decreased rates of viral respiratory infections in the community, additional infection prevention and control measures implemented in fall 2023 in health-care settings are no longer required at all times. People are still encouraged to wear masks in health-care settings as appropriate, to continue to cover coughs and stay away from others when feeling sick. Health-care workers will continue to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as masks and respirators, in accordance with their point-of-care risk assessments.

While the peak of the respiratory illness season has passed, the SARS CoV-2 virus continues to circulate at lower levels in the community. The protection from infection that COVID-19 vaccines provide decreases over time, particularly in older people, so a spring COVID-19 vaccine booster will ensure people stay protected.

Aligned with advice from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization, B.C. health officials recommend the following people consider receiving an additional dose of the XBB.1.5 COVID-19 vaccine:

• adults 65 and older;
• Indigenous adults 55 and older;
• adult residents of long-term care homes and assisted-living facilities (including those awaiting placement); and
• individuals six months and older who have been diagnosed as clinically extremely vulnerable (a CEV 1 or CEV 2 condition).

B.C.’s COVID-19 spring program is focused on providing vaccines to those most at risk of severe COVID-19 illness or complications, and people who have not yet received an updated vaccine dose. However, anyone who feels they would benefit from an additional dose of the XBB.1.5 COVID-19 vaccine can contact the call centre at 1 833 838-2323 to book an appointment or walk into a pharmacy where the vaccine is available. Vaccine appointment capacity is available in all regions.

The 2023-24 respiratory illness immunization campaign was launched to the general population on Oct. 10, 2023. As of end of day March 31, 2024, B.C. had administered 1,457,246 doses of COVID-19 vaccines and 1,562,023 doses of influenza vaccines.

Quick Facts:

• Invitations will start going out on Monday, April 8, 2024; reminders will be sent out to those who have not yet received an XBB.1.5 dose and to those who fit the listed categories.
• There are approximately 3.9 million people in B.C. who have not received a COVID-19 XBB.1.5 vaccine.
• B.C. has more than 900,000 doses of Moderna and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines (adult, infant and pediatric) in stock and approximately 13,000 doses of the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine in stock for those requiring a non-mRNA vaccine.

Learn More:

People who want a notification to book an appointment, or who are not yet registered, are encouraged to do so by visiting: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/vaccine/register

For more information about the COVID-19 vaccine, visit:  https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/covid-19/vaccine/register#howto

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BC interior universities extend collaboration to advance research, innovation

April 18, 2024

UBC Okanagan, TRU in Kamloops, and UNBC in Prince George have renewed an MOU to foster collaborative research based in the BC interior.

British Columbia’s three interior universities have strengthened their commitment to research and innovation by extending their partnership with the Interior Universities Research Coalition (IURC).

The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC), Thompson Rivers University (TRU) and the University of British Columbia’s Okanagan campus (UBCO) announced on Thursday they’ve renewed their Memorandum of Understanding for an additional five years.

“We’re eager to continue collaborating with our research colleagues in the BC Interior to drive discovery and innovation further,” says Dr. Philip Barker, UBCO’s Vice-Principal and Associate Vice-President of Research and Innovation.

“Each of the IURC institutions brings research specialties and strengths to this agreement that create connections and maximize the partnership’s benefit for BC interior communities and industries.”

Since its inception in 2017, the IURC has boosted research initiatives throughout the BC interior. The coalition has secured nearly $8 million in funding for joint research projects and fostered collaboration between the universities.

Projects have tackled pressing regional issues such as disaster prevention, rural aging, COVID-19 effects, education and wildlife stewardship.

“The IURC has set the groundwork to advance important research in our regions—the collaboration between our institutions is critical in building capacity for new research opportunities in our communities,” says Dr. Shannon Wagner, TRU’s Vice-President of Research.

“The renewal marks the beginning of what we envision as a blueprint towards inter-institutional partnerships across Canada, inspiring a future where collaboration paves the way for discovery and growth.”

The IURC’s next phase will focus on community-based research, expanding research capacity, developing shared educational opportunities and building upon the successes of the past five years. This partnership fosters talent, increases student and faculty mobility, and strengthens connections to communities across the region.

“The IURC facilitates partnerships among scholars at all three institutions. They work with community partners to identify solutions to pressing issues in our region and beyond. The knowledge generated through these projects builds capacity for healthy, productive and thriving interior communities,” says Dr. Paula Wood-Adams, UNBC’s Vice-President of Research and Innovation.

Lisa Beare, the Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, says the renewed MOU demonstrates a shared vision to enhance research and education, with the ultimate goal of benefiting communities throughout the BC interior. “This initiative aligns with our commitment to accessible, relevant post-secondary education,” she says.

The IURC is a dynamic partnership between UNBC, TRU, and UBCO, designed to enhance research and innovation ecosystems within the BC interior. Learn more at IURC.ca .

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UBC’s Okanagan campus is an innovative hub for research and learning founded in partnership with local Indigenous peoples, the Syilx Okanagan Nation, in whose traditional, ancestral and unceded territory the campus resides. The most established and influential global rankings all consistently place UBC in the top five per cent of universities in the world, and among the top three Canadian universities.

The Okanagan campus combines a globally recognized UBC education with a tight-knit and entrepreneurial community that welcomes students and faculty from around the world in British Columbia’s stunning Okanagan Valley. For more visit ok.ubc.ca .

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Global Education Communities: Fiscal Q2 Earnings Snapshot

VANCOUVER, British Columbia — VANCOUVER, British Columbia — Global Education Communities Corp. (GECSF) on Monday reported a loss of $730,000 in its fiscal second quarter.

On a per-share basis, the Vancouver, British Columbia-based company said it had a loss of 1 cent.

The operator of business, technical and language colleges posted revenue of $13 million in the period.

This story was generated by Automated Insights (http://automatedinsights.com/ap) using data from Zacks Investment Research. Access a Zacks stock report on GECSF at https://www.zacks.com/ap/GECSF

Generosity, community on display at Vancouver's annual Vaisakhi parade

Thousands of people descended on Main Street to celebrate Vaisakhi in Vancouver.

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Naresh Shulka stood outside his business Saturday afternoon, greeting members of the colourfully dressed crowds who were celebrating Vaisakhi in Vancouver.

The doors to his imported goods shop, Mother India, were open to the thousands of people who walked Main Street as part of the city’s annual Vaisakhi parade. The event celebrates the spring harvest in the Punjab region and parts of Northern India. It is also an important day for Sikhs around the world, marking when Guru Gobind Singh created the Khalsa order and founded the Sikh faith in 1699.

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Vaisakhi is celebrated in Sikh communities around the world, and is usually held on either April 13 or 14.

“It feels like I’m welcoming people into my home,” said Shulka, whose former business, Bombay Sweets, was one of the first in the five-block district now known as Vancouver’s Punjabi Market.

“I came to Canada alone with just $8 in my pocket, and I used to hold tight to every penny I earned,” said Shulka, who emigrated from New Delhi when he was 16 years old.

“But now that I have more than enough, I want to share what I have with everybody.”

British Columbia’s Premier Dave Eby lauded the holiday, which he said in a statement Saturday is a showcase of selflessness.

“Vaisakhi is a time for family and friends to gather in worship and celebration. People will pray at gurdwaras, participate in parades and attend other happy gatherings,” Eby continued.

“April is also Sikh heritage month, a chance to recount the many contributions the Sikh community in B.C. — the largest outside of India — has made to building our province. We have all benefited.”

Saturday’s festivities, which began around 9 a.m. at the Khalsa Diwan Society Gurdwara on Ross Street, saw a number of streets cordoned off to accommodate the thousands of attendees walking in the parade, called nagar kirtan.

Volunteers from various community groups and businesses set up tents along the route and offered tea, sweets and vegetarian dishes to passersby.

Shulka, who wore a light grey suit and matching head covering for the occasion, recalls being among the first to set up a stall for the inaugural Vaisakhi parade in 1978.

“When this district started, we people from India felt that we needed this area, to feel safe in numbers, with our shared culture. We thought we would only survive in a new country if we were together,” the 65-year-old said.

“Now, we are no longer scared. We want to share our lives with everyone — everyone is our family now.”

Vancouver’s Dhruva Narayan, 32, who attends the festival each year, said that the festival is one of the happiest days of his year.

“Just look around, everyone is smiling, and their bellies are fully and happy. No one has a frown.”

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