Vancouver Island University Logo Vancouver Island University

Address: Vancouver Island University, 900 Fifth Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5S5, Canada
Phone: +1 250-753-3245
Email: info@viu.ca
Website: www.viu.ca


Vancouver Island University (VIU) has specific language requirements for international students and those whose first language is not English. Here are the general language proficiency requirements:

English Language Proficiency Requirements

  1. Undergraduate Programs: International applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency through one of the following standardized tests:

    • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):
      • Minimum score of 83 on the Internet-based test (iBT), with a minimum of 20 in each section.
    • IELTS (International English Language Testing System):
      • Minimum overall band score of 6.5, with no band below 6.0.
    • CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Assessment):
      • Minimum overall score of 60, with no component below 60.
    • PTE (Pearson Test of English):
      • Minimum score of 60.

  2. Graduate Programs: For graduate programs, the English language requirements may vary, but generally, the following scores are expected:

    • TOEFL: Minimum score of 90 (iBT), with a minimum of 20 in each section.
    • IELTS: Minimum overall band score of 6.5, with no band below 6.0.
    • CAEL: Minimum score of 70, with no component below 60.
    • PTE: Minimum score of 60.

Exemptions

Certain applicants may be exempt from providing English language proficiency test scores if they meet specific criteria, such as:

  • Completing a secondary or post-secondary education in an English-speaking institution.
  • Holding a degree from a recognized institution where the medium of instruction was English.

Support for Language Development

Vancouver Island University also offers support for students who may need to improve their English language skills:

  • English Language Centre: Offers English language programs for academic purposes to help non-native speakers enhance their language proficiency.
  • Academic Support Services: Includes tutoring and workshops focused on language skills, writing, and study strategies.

Vancouver Island University (VIU) offers a diverse range of course specialties across several faculties. Here are some of the key areas of focus:

1. Arts and Humanities

  • Bachelor of Arts: Students can specialize in areas like English, History, Psychology, and Sociology.
  • Visual Arts: Emphasizes creativity in painting, drawing, and multimedia arts.

2. Business

  • Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA): Offers concentrations in Accounting, Marketing, Human Resource Management, and International Business.
  • Hospitality Management: A well-regarded program focused on the skills needed for careers in the tourism and hospitality industry.

3. Education

  • Bachelor of Education: Prepares future teachers with a focus on innovative teaching practices and curriculum development.
  • Early Childhood Education: Specializes in developmentally appropriate practices for young children.

4. Health and Human Services

  • Nursing: A comprehensive program that combines theory with hands-on clinical experience, preparing students for careers in healthcare.
  • Social Work: Focuses on community engagement, advocacy, and support for individuals and families.

5. Science and Technology

  • Environmental Science: Covers topics such as conservation, ecology, and environmental management, with opportunities for fieldwork.
  • Biology: Offers specializations in marine biology and other areas of biological science.

6. Indigenous Studies

  • Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies: Focuses on Indigenous knowledge, culture, and contemporary issues, fostering understanding and respect for Indigenous communities.

7. Tourism and Recreation

  • Tourism Management: Offers a comprehensive understanding of the tourism industry, including sustainable practices and community tourism development.
  • Adventure Tourism: Combines tourism with outdoor adventure, emphasizing experiential learning in natural settings.

8. Applied and Vocational Programs

  • Trades and Technology: Offers programs in fields such as Carpentry, Welding, Culinary Arts, and Automotive Technology.
  • Graphic Design: Prepares students for careers in design, advertising, and multimedia through practical projects and industry collaboration.

9. Graduate Programs

  • VIU also offers several graduate programs, including Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Community Planning, and specialized degrees in education and health sciences.

Vancouver Island University (VIU) has many esteemed professors known for their contributions to teaching, research, and community engagement. Here are some notable faculty members:

1. Dr. Liette Vasseur

  • Position: Professor, Biology
  • Specialization: Environmental science, biodiversity, and sustainability.
  • Achievements: Dr. Vasseur is known for her work on climate change adaptation and community sustainability. She holds the UNESCO Chair in Community Sustainability: From Local to Global and has made significant contributions to research on ecological resilience.

2. Dr. Andrew Nikiforuk

  • Position: Faculty, Social Sciences
  • Specialization: Journalism, environmental studies, and public policy.
  • Achievements: A well-respected author and journalist, Dr. Nikiforuk has written extensively on environmental issues and resource management. He is recognized for his insightful analysis of energy policy and ecological sustainability.

3. Dr. Paul Michel

  • Position: Professor, Education
  • Specialization: Educational leadership, teacher education.
  • Achievements: Dr. Michel is known for his innovative approaches to teacher education and leadership training. He has contributed significantly to the development of programs aimed at enhancing educational practices.

4. Dr. Anne C. Wright

  • Position: Professor, Business
  • Specialization: Strategic management, entrepreneurship.
  • Achievements: Dr. Wright has published numerous articles on entrepreneurship and strategic management and is recognized for her contributions to business education and research.

5. Dr. Keri Cronin

  • Position: Associate Professor, Visual Arts
  • Specialization: Art history and contemporary art.
  • Achievements: Dr. Cronin is known for her research in visual culture and animal studies, and she has been influential in bridging art with social issues.

6. Dr. Karen A. B. K. Bracken

  • Position: Associate Professor, Psychology
  • Specialization: Health psychology, community health.
  • Achievements: Dr. Bracken's research focuses on health behaviors and community health initiatives, contributing to understanding how psychology can impact community well-being.

Faculty Directory

 

As of now, no alumni or faculty members from Vancouver Island University (VIU) have been awarded a Nobel Prize. However, VIU is known for its strong commitment to research and education, particularly in areas such as environmental studies, Indigenous education, and community engagement.

While VIU itself may not have Nobel laureates associated with it, the university supports research and academic excellence in various fields, contributing to significant advancements in knowledge and practice. The focus on sustainability, community development, and applied research reflects a broader commitment to making a positive impact, even if it hasn’t yet resulted in Nobel recognition

Vancouver Island University is a Canadian public university serving in Vancouver Island and coastal British Columbia.

History of VIU

VIU started out as the Dominion-Provincial Youth Training Centre in 1938. 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. 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.

Vancouver Island University (VIU) is known for several key reasons that contribute to its reputation both within Canada and globally:

1. Commitment to Teaching Excellence and Student Engagement

  • VIU is renowned for its student-centered approach to education, focusing on small class sizes and personalized learning experiences. This enables students to work closely with faculty, enhancing their academic experience.
  • The university emphasizes hands-on learning, internships, and community involvement, giving students practical experience in their fields of study.

2. Diverse Program Offerings

  • VIU offers a wide range of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, with strengths in areas like business, tourism, education, environmental sciences, arts, and Indigenous studies.
  • Its Bachelor of Hospitality Management and Tourism programs are particularly well-regarded, aligning with the university's location on Vancouver Island, a hub for tourism and hospitality industries.

3. Strong Focus on Indigenous Education

  • VIU is recognized for its deep commitment to Indigenous education and reconciliation. It offers specialized programs and initiatives aimed at supporting Indigenous students and promoting Indigenous knowledge.
  • The university has strong partnerships with local Indigenous communities and has established the First Nations Stewardship program to foster leadership and economic development in Indigenous communities.

4. Leadership in Environmental Studies and Sustainability

  • Given its location on the scenic and ecologically diverse Vancouver Island, VIU has developed a strong focus on environmental science, sustainability, and resource management.
  • The university’s Natural Resource Protection and Fisheries & Aquaculture programs are renowned for their integration of research and fieldwork, attracting students interested in environmental careers.

5. Applied Research and Innovation

  • VIU engages in applied research across a variety of fields, contributing to local economic development and industry partnerships. The university’s research efforts often focus on practical solutions to regional and global challenges, including sustainability, Indigenous governance, and community development.

6. Location and Scenic Campus

  • Located in Nanaimo, British Columbia, VIU’s campus is set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean and the coastal mountains. This location provides a unique environment for students to study in a natural setting that is conducive to learning and outdoor activities.
  • The proximity to natural attractions such as parks, beaches, and hiking trails makes it a popular choice for students who enjoy outdoor activities.

7. International Education and Global Engagement

  • VIU has a strong focus on international education, attracting students from around the world. It offers exchange programs, study abroad opportunities, and specialized services for international students.
  • The university fosters global connections through partnerships with institutions worldwide and encourages cross-cultural learning and global citizenship.

8. Support for Vocational and Technical Education

  • VIU offers a variety of vocational and trades programs, providing training in areas such as carpentry, welding, and culinary arts. This focus on skills-based education aligns with the needs of the regional workforce and offers pathways for students to enter high-demand fields.