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Vancouver Island University

A better world starts here

On a mountainside overlooking the Salish Sea on the West Coast of Canada is the main VIU campus in Nanaimo. Here you find inspiration all around you. It’s a place you’ll make real connections – on campus, in community and with the land.

Student success in the classroom and beyond is at the heart of everything we do. Our community of support is here for all students. And we offer custom supports for Indigenous students, international students, adult learners and those who face learning challenges. 
 

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Explore 120+ programs

Whether you’re looking for the arts, sciences, trades or humanities, VIU has a program for you. 

Browse VIU programs

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Enigye “Happy” Amarkah

Bachelor of Arts, Visual Art

“The teachers are like family to us. If you have a problem, you can contact your professor and they’ll solve it with you like you are their own kids. If I had to do it all over again, I would still come here."

How to become a VIU student

Discover your place at VIU

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Learning at VIU

Follow your interests to find a program that’s right for you.

Learning at VIU

 

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Admissions

Find out what it takes to be a VIU student. Spoiler alert: we make it easy! 

Learn about admissions

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Student life

Explore your opportunities to get involved at VIU.

Learn about student life

Leaders, creators, keepers and makers connect at VIU, nurturing a good life for generations to come. 

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Visit VIU’s Nanaimo campus

Experience VIU with all your senses during a campus tour. Take in the stunning ocean view and the surrounding forest. Explore all the campus has to offer with a student ambassador as your guide. 

Take a campus tour

VIU News

VIU researcher studying how to better people’s long-term ability to walk and run

Dr. Michael Asmussen is looking at ways to improve foot and ankle stabilization to increase performance and minimize injury. We use them every day, usually...

VIU News & Experts: November 6, 2024

Remembrance Day, US election, memory development 🧠 In this issue of VIU news & experts:  Re-translating a classic war novel US election results Studying...

Vancouver Island University hosts provincial recreation conference

The summit brings industry experts from across Canada to Nanaimo The future of recreation in rural communities and small cities is the topic of a provincial...

VIU Events

Nov
6

Biometric Clinic

Looking to take charge of your health? The VIU HealthyU nursing students are holding a biometric clinic on November 6 at the Cowichan Campus, from 10 am to 2…
Nov
6

Positive Space Alliance Socials

VIU’s Positive Space Alliance socials are back for the fall semester! Join us for a fun, inclusive space open to everyone of any sexual orientation and gender…
Nov
6

TIA Yukon Information Session

TIA Yukon is the voice of the visitor industry, uniting a common voice and actions to influence, promote, and support the development of tourism in the Yukon…
Nov
6

Dental Hygiene Information Session

Are you interested in a career in dental hygiene? Join us for a free information session to learn more about this program.
Aiden Kilcommons

Aiden Kilcommons

If I was only able to take away one thing from my experience here at VIU it would be the relationships I have been able to form with these amazing people. I have learned so much not only about geology, but life in general and will cherish the memories made for the rest of my life.

Bachelor of Science, Geoscience

How to become a VIU student