VIU Students at Beach

Vancouver IslandUniversity

About VIU

About VIU

Get to know VIU

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 Snuneymuxw, 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

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.

Sarah Adair

Sarah Crann-Adair

The professors remember us outside the classroom, and have time to talk at length with students when we show up at their office. I feel like my professors are almost as invested in my success as I am.