The Cowichan Campus of Vancouver Island University, located in Duncan, serves the Cowichan Valley region with a focus on accessible education and community-oriented programs. This smaller campus provides a welcoming and intimate learning environment, ideal for students seeking personalized support and a close-knit academic community. The campus features modern facilities tailored to the specific programs offered here.
The Cowichan Campus specializes in programs that meet local workforce needs and provide pathways to further education. Students can enroll in a variety of certificate, diploma, and degree programs, including:
Additionally, the campus offers Adult Basic Education and English as a Second Language programs to support foundational learning and integration into the community. Many courses emphasize practical skills and hands-on training, ensuring graduates are job-ready. The campus also engages with the local Indigenous communities, offering culturally relevant programming and support services. With a focus on sustainability and regional development, the Cowichan Campus plays a vital role in fostering education and economic growth in the area. Students benefit from smaller class sizes, dedicated faculty, and opportunities for community involvement, making this campus a cornerstone of learning in the Cowichan Valley.
The Nanaimo Campus of Vancouver Island University is the main campus and serves as the hub for a wide range of academic programs. Nestled in a scenic location with views of the ocean and mountains, this campus offers a vibrant learning environment for students from diverse backgrounds. It is the largest campus of VIU and hosts the majority of the university's facilities, including state-of-the-art labs, libraries, and student services.
Students at the Nanaimo Campus can choose from an extensive array of programs spanning various disciplines. The campus is particularly known for its strong offerings in arts, sciences, and business. Undergraduate and graduate degrees are available in fields such as:
In addition to these, the campus offers unique programs tailored to regional needs, such as Indigenous Studies and Fisheries and Aquaculture. The campus also supports a variety of certificate and diploma programs designed for career-focused education. With a commitment to sustainability and community engagement, many courses integrate hands-on learning and research opportunities. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized attention from faculty, and a supportive academic community. The Nanaimo Campus is also home to cultural and recreational facilities, fostering a well-rounded student experience.
The Parksville-Qualicum Centre of Vancouver Island University is a regional campus designed to serve the educational needs of the Oceanside area, including Parksville and Qualicum Beach. This smaller campus offers a supportive and accessible learning environment, catering to local students who prefer to study closer to home. The centre is equipped with modern classrooms and resources tailored to the programs offered.
The Parksville-Qualicum Centre focuses on providing foundational and career-oriented education through a selection of programs that address community needs. Students can pursue various certificate and continuing education courses, including:
Many of the programs are designed to prepare students for immediate employment or to provide a stepping stone to further studies at larger VIU campuses like Nanaimo. The centre emphasizes flexible learning options, including part-time and evening classes, to accommodate working students and adult learners. Community engagement is a key focus, with programs often tailored to local industry demands and cultural contexts. The campus fosters a tight-knit community atmosphere, allowing for personalized attention from instructors and strong peer support. The Parksville-Qualicum Centre is an essential educational resource for the region, promoting lifelong learning and skill development in a convenient location.
The Powell River Campus of Vancouver Island University serves the educational needs of the Powell River region on the Sunshine Coast. This regional campus offers a personalized and community-focused learning environment, making higher education accessible to local residents. Despite its smaller size, the campus is equipped with modern facilities and resources to support student success.
The Powell River Campus provides a range of programs designed to meet local demand for skilled workers and to support lifelong learning. Students can enroll in various certificate, diploma, and foundational programs, including:
The campus also offers university transfer courses, allowing students to begin their studies locally before transitioning to the Nanaimo Campus for degree completion. Many programs emphasize practical, hands-on learning to prepare students for immediate employment in the region. The campus is deeply connected to the community, often collaborating with local businesses and organizations to tailor education to workforce needs. With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, students receive individualized attention and support. The Powell River Campus plays a crucial role in fostering education, economic development, and community engagement in this remote area, ensuring that residents have access to quality learning opportunities without needing to relocate.
