Vancouver Island University

Vancouver Island University

Excellence in teaching, innovative research and an inclusive community at Vancouver Island University prepare students for success in every aspect of life.

VIU is a public university on the west coast of Canada with campuses on the traditional territory of the Suneymuxw, Quw’utsun, Tla’amin, Snaw-naw-as and Qualicum First Nations.

Quick Facts

  • more than 120 programs, from graduate and undergraduate degrees to trades diplomas and certificates
  • 12,000 students (12% Indigenous and 12% international)
  • about 1500 faculty and staff
  • 121 research projects that involved community partners in 2021-22

 

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.

Vision

The University’s Vision Statement builds upon the mandate for BC’s special purpose, teaching universities in the University’s own language, adding statements of purpose, values, a visionary goal, and specific objectives to guide the work of the institution.

Purpose

As a leader in providing high-quality learning, Vancouver Island University supports the well being of the people of Vancouver Island and coastal British Columbia by promoting a high quality of life for their communities through commitment to student success, community engagement and associated scholarship.