Education + Island vibe
The world travels to Vancouver Island to unwind and connect with nature at iconic destinations like Tofino and the West Coast Trail. The vibe in the summer when there are lots of visitors visitors is carefree, fun and adventurous.
After the tourists leave, the Island reveals more of itself. In the rainforest in October, where raindrops glisten in the mosses and evergreens, the vibe is reverent. Working harbours in winter offer a coastal vibe of grit and determination. When cherry blossoms arrive in February, while the rest of Canada is still blanketed in snow, the Island vibe gets smug.
When you study at VIU and live here, you will find the Island vibe that fits you.
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Island adventure
Where else but Vancouver Island can you ski in the morning, surf in the afternoon and kayak in the evening? From VIU's Nanaimo campus you can explore all the Island has to offer.
Hit the slopes on Mt. Washington (133 km away)
Explore Canada's oldest Chinatown in Victoria (112 km away)
Try surfing in Tofino (188 km away)
A balanced life for better studies
The Island's mild winters and year-round access to nature make it easy for you to create a balanced lifestyle.
Studies show that even brief exposure to green environments can improve attention, reduce stress and boost cognitive performance.
Explore your options
Choose from more than 100 programs at VIU.
Whether you want trades programs, undergraduate and graduate degree programs or professional development, you get practical hands-on experience in all VIU programs.
Make the harbour city your home
Nanaimo offers all the convenience of a city with a community feel and quick access to outdoor adventures.
If you crave urban adventure, Vancouver is only a 90-minute ferry ride or 30-minute flight away.