A better world starts here
On a mountainside overlooking the Salish Sea on the West Coast of Canada is the main VIU campus in Nanaimo. Here you find inspiration all around you. It’s a place you’ll make real connections – on campus, in community and with the land.
Student success in the classroom and beyond is at the heart of everything we do. Our community of support is here for all students. And we offer custom supports for Indigenous students, international students, adult learners and those who face learning challenges.
Explore 120+ programs
Whether you’re looking for the arts, sciences, trades or humanities, VIU has a program for you.
Enigye “Happy” Amarkah
Bachelor of Arts, Visual Art
“The teachers are like family to us. If you have a problem, you can contact your professor and they’ll solve it with you like you are their own kids. If I had to do it all over again, I would still come here."
Discover your place at VIU
Admissions
Find out what it takes to be a VIU student. Spoiler alert: we make it easy!
Leaders, creators, keepers and makers connect at VIU, nurturing a good life for generations to come.
Visit VIU’s Nanaimo campus
Experience VIU with all your senses during 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.
VIU News
VIU in the news March 28, 2025
Helping youth navigate anxiety and depression
Alumni Spotlight on George Anderson
VIU Events
Recreation, Tourism & Hospitality programs webinar - Mexico, Central & South America
Esthetics Program Student Spa Clinic
Student Exchange Support sessions
Make Your Sign for Take Back the Night!
Aiden Kilcommons
If I was only able to take away one thing from my experience here at VIU it would be the relationships I have been able to form with these amazing people. I have learned so much not only about geology, but life in general and will cherish the memories made for the rest of my life.
Bachelor of Science, Geoscience