Vancouver Island University (VIU) is a public, degree-granting institution located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. It's a comprehensive university offering a wide range of programs, from bachelor's and master's degrees to diplomas and certificates.
| Acronym | VIU |
| Nickname | Mariners |
| Motto / Slogan | Discoveries in Education |
| Colour | White, Navy Blue, Light blue, Dark blue |
| Mascot | Stuey the Sturgeon |
| Founded | 1969 |
| Departments | 120 |
| Location | Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada |
| Address | Nanaimo (Main Campus) 900 Fifth Street Nanaimo, BC V9R 5S5 Canada |
Vancouver Island University's (VIU) mission statement is: "Vancouver Island University is a dynamic and diverse educational organization, dedicated to excellence in teaching and learning, service, and research. We foster student success, strong community connections, and international collaboration by providing access to a wide range of university and college programs designed for regional, national, and international students".
VIU is committed to fostering an equitable and inclusive environment for all members of our community, including students, faculty and administrators. We are here to support you if you believe you have experienced any form of discrimination or discriminatory harassment.
VIU is committed to sustainable development. VIU is working to:
At VIU, your goals are our inspiration. Small class sizes mean we can get to know you. And we can connect you to opportunities that will get you where you want to go in life. VIU academic degree programs and trades programs are led by experts who are leaders in their fields. And you’ll find support where you need it.
We offer rich undergraduate and graduate research experiences. Our undergrads take part in research projects that are often reserved for graduate students. We support our graduate students in pursuing research that inspires them. And we provide opportunities for grad students and undergrads to work together on large-scale research initiatives.
All programs at VIU have admission requirements, which represent the minimum standing you must have completed in order to qualify for entry. Admission requirements are in place to ensure that students will have a reasonable opportunity to succeed in their studies. Different types of programs have different requirements.
Canadian citizens and those with permanent residence status in Canada are eligible for admission to Academic programs if they meet one of the following conditions:
English language proficiency
Applicants should be aware that, unless otherwise noted, English is the language of instruction at Vancouver Island University. Domestic students with English-as-a-Second-Language are urged to contact the Advising Centre for information on how to upgrade their English language skills if required.
Different types of programs have different requirements. Check the admission page for your program requirements.
International Students:
Check the international admission page to see the English language requirements.
International students (who are not Canadian citizens or Permanent Residents) can now apply through Education Planner BC.
Email: [email protected],[email protected]
Phone : +1 250-740-6672, +1-888-920-2221
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Dr. Johnson began his career in the classroom, teaching at Mohawk College, and Thompson Rivers University, where he also took on administrative responsibilities. This foundation as an educator continues to shape his belief in the transformative power of teaching and learning.
Sayers is President of the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council – a non-profit society that provides a wide variety of services and supports to 14 nations with about 10,000 members – and holds business and law degrees, as well as an honorary Doctor of Laws, from Queen’s University. She practiced law for 18 years in both Alberta and British Columbia, working in international forums and lobbying governments and other agencies for the promotion and protection of First Nations rights and title.
“One of the reasons I am attracted to VIU and to this position is how closely the University has worked with the Snuneymuxw First Nation and other Nations,” says Sayers. “I would like to see those kinds of partnerships continue to grow and flourish. VIU takes its commitment to reconciliation seriously, and I am excited to work with President Dr. Deb Saucier, who is also Indigenous, to continue implementing Indigenous ways of knowing and being.”
Peter has been extensively involved in supporting local philanthropy and community organizations. This work was recognized by the Canadian Bar Association when it awarded Peter the Community Service Award in 2006, which is the highest recognition given to a lawyer for volunteer work. Peter was the Chair of the Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation from 2000-2005.
VIU started out as the Dominion-Provincial Youth Training Centre in 1936. We have adapted to the needs of the community over the years. By the 1950s we began attracting international attention for innovation and hands-on learning. In 1969, we became Malaspina College. Twenty years later, in 1989, we became Malaspina University-College. April 2008 saw the transition to Vancouver Island University. Today we are a full university with robust academic offerings, and, true to our roots, we continue to offer trades and vocational training.