Digital viewbook
hay ch qa’sii’em siy’yu mukw mustimuxw
— In hul’q’umi’num’ this means, “Thank you, respected ones of this place.”
The VIU community acknowledges and thanks the Snuneymuxw, Quw’utsun, Tla’amin, Snaw-naw-as and Qualicum First Nations on whose traditional lands we teach, learn, research, live and share knowledge.
Welcome to VIU
From your first day on campus, you’re part of a welcoming community that values connection and belonging. We get to know your name and your goals, and we can connect you with experiences in the community that will help you get where you want to go in your career.
12,000+
students
900+
international students from 81 countries
1,600+
Indigenous students
100,000+
alumni in 160 countries
Professors who care
VIU is a teaching university, which means your learning is our priority. Our professors and instructors see you not only as a student, but as a person with goals, challenges and ideas. They offer support when you need it, and they create opportunities to deepen your learning when your dreams are big. They create classroom environments that give you the freedom to explore new ideas, to challenge yourself and to experiment.
VIU professors understand that your learning is not just about gathering information; it’s about experience and connection, and the shared pursuit of something more.
Choose from 100+ programs
Choose from a range of academic and trades programs. Whether you want a full time degree program or you want to study part-time, we have options that will help you reach your goals. All VIU programs offer hands-on learning and personalized teaching.
Island lifestyle
Vancouver Island and the surrounding areas offer a relaxed, nature-centric lifestyle defined by warm summers and mild winters. Outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, biking, kayaking and wildlife viewing are right at your doorstep.
Living in Nanaimo
Enjoy the best quality of life in BC
Nanaimo was voted the No. 1 city in BC and the No. 2 city in Canada in the Numbeo quality of life index. It’s no surprise. With easy access to nature and all the convenience of a city, you get the best of both worlds.
Your options for outdoor adventure are unlimited. Within minutes of campus are trails for hiking and mountain biking. There is easy access to lakes, rivers and the ocean as well. Nanaimo also offers plenty of urban entertainment options. Downtown you’ll find funky shops, galleries, cafes, theatres and live music venues. When you crave a big-city experience,
Campus life
Get involved. Make memories.
Start your student experience with RockVIU new student orientation. Here you can connect with your new classmates and get familiar with campus at a fun festival-style event. Join a VIU student club to find people who share your interests. Take in a performance at
the Malaspina Theatre or an exhibit at the View Gallery. Spend a Saturday at Milner Gardens & Woodland – admission is free for VIU students. Or sign up for one of the many events and excursions that happen throughout the year.
Start building your future
Connect with a recruiter to learn more about how VIU can help you create the future you want.
Book a campus tour
Experience VIU with all your senses at 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.
