Vancouver Island University
Known as a centre of excellence for teaching, applied research and learning, Vancouver Island University (VIU), a public post-secondary institution, is producing quality graduates that are in demand by employers across the country and around the world.
With roots that date back to 1936 when Nanaimo’s first vocational training school opened its doors, VIU shares a rich history and connectedness with its communities. It is this history and commitment to people that has provided VIU with a solid foundation on which we continue to grow.
VIU is a dynamic, internationally known university supporting a population of approximately 15,000 full-time and part-time students, including almost 2,000 international students, more than 1,800 Indigenous students, and employing over 2,000 faculty and staff.Through our ongoing evolution and growth, VIU is proud to have contributed to the development of the Vancouver Island culture, social, economic and knowledge base
Programs
Programs | Location | |
Culinary Arts Bridging to Bachelor of Hospitality Management | Vancouver | |
Culinary Management | Vancouver | |
Hospitality Management | Vancouver | |
Tourism Management | Vancouver | |
Tourism Studies | Vancouver |
Campuses
IU’s three campus locations are connected by coastal beauty and a culture of community.
Be part of a warm, welcoming environment of learning and connecting at VIU’s three university campuses, conveniently located along Canada’s beautiful shoreline on Vancouver Island and coastal BC.
- Nanaimo Campus: Located on the traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation, VIU’s main campus in Nanaimo hosts an ocean-view campus, spanning 92 scenic acres, including lush stands of forest and Japanese gardens. Walk nature trails located a few minutes from campus on foot, or take a quick city transit ride to Nanaimo’s harbourside downtown centre for eclectic dining, pubs, coffee shops, and shopping.
- Cowichan Campus: VIU’s newest campus offers a broad range of programs and student services in a beautiful and modern LEED Gold Certified facility and a few minutes’ drive away, at the Cowichan Trades Centre. In the heart of Duncan, on the traditional territory of Cowichan Tribes, Cowichan Campus is steps from restaurants, shopping and services. Join in outdoor recreation and cultural events, enjoy the bounty of the area's farmlands at farmers’ markets, and arrive at lakes and ocean access in minutes.
- Powell River Campus: Study in this beautiful coastal town and find a friendly, supportive community at VIU’s Powell River Campus. Located in the traditional territory of the Tla’amin First Nation on BC’s upper Sunshine Coast, VIU’s Powell River campus is bounded by pristine wilderness and is close to the world class ocean destinations of Jervis Inlet and Desolation Sound. Powell River is a magnet for those who enjoy a wealth of active pursuits and the pace of a small, vibrant and connected community.
Accommodation
Our facilities house over 500 students on VIU’s Nanaimo campus each year. Residents come to our community from across Canada and the world, each bringing different life experiences and perspectives to VIU. This is what makes living in a residence community so interesting and dynamic. Residences abide by the guidelines of our Community Standards Handbook, so we can create a respectful, enjoyable, and safe experience for every student and staff member.
There are 10 Residence buildings located in the western area of the Nanaimo campus at 4 University Crescent, Nanaimo, BC offering a variety of accommodation. There arean array of different building styles that include : Traditional/Dorm, Townhouse, and Apartment.
The Cedar Centre building is the administration hub of the residence buildings where you will find a 24-hour front desk, the Residence Life office, mailboxes, and laundry facilities.