Bachelor Of Arts - Geography at VIU - Vancouver Island University - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-03-31

Program overview

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Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Geography at Vancouver Island University (VIU) is designed for students interested in understanding how human activities shape physical landscapes and how natural processes influence the Earth’s surface. This program offers a comprehensive exploration of both physical and human geography, focusing on the distribution and patterning of phenomena across the Earth. Students will engage with critical issues such as sustainable resource management and urban and social sustainability, preparing them for diverse career paths in various sectors.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Arts in Geography program is structured as follows:

Program Length: 4 Years
Credential: Bachelor Degree
Options:
- Honours
- Major
- Minor
Location: Fully available at Nanaimo; partially available at Cowichan and tiwšɛmawtxʷ (Powell River)

This program allows students to specialize in areas such as sustainable resource management or urban and social sustainability. The curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation in both theoretical and applied geography, enhancing students' skills in communication, spatial analysis, and geographic information systems (GIS). Students will complete a total of 120 credits to meet the institutional requirements for a Bachelor of Arts degree.

Featured Experiences

Access to a dedicated, industry-standard GIS lab equipped with the latest software.
Opportunities for hands-on learning through field studies and practical applications of geographic tools.
Small class sizes that promote active student-faculty interaction, enhancing the learning experience.
Options for co-op placements and internships to gain real-world experience in the field.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Geography program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Urban Planner: Develops plans and programs for land use in urban areas, ensuring sustainable development.
Environmental Consultant: Advises organizations on environmental best practices and compliance with regulations.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Specialist: Utilizes GIS technology to analyze spatial data and support decision-making processes.
Natural Resource Manager: Oversees the sustainable management of natural resources, balancing ecological health with economic needs.
Policy Analyst: Researches and analyzes policies related to land use, environmental protection, and urban development.

The demand for graduates with expertise in geographic studies remains high, particularly for those skilled in GIS and spatial analysis, making this program a valuable investment in your future career.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit VIU - Vancouver Island University official website

Last updated on 2025-03-31

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply as an international student to Vancouver Island University (VIU), you must meet the following Academic Requirements:

Graduation from high school or equivalent. (Refer to the High school completion equivalency list by country for specific details.)
Proof of meeting English language requirements.

For applicants who attended high school in English-speaking countries, the following applies:

International students who are BC high school graduates must have a minimum grade of “C” in English 12 for direct entry into an academic program.
International students who have completed high school in English, in a country where English is considered the official language, must have a minimum grade equivalent to a grade of “C” in English 12 in British Columbia.

For applicants from countries where English is not the official language:

Must submit a recognized English Language Proficiency test (valid within the past 2 years).
Conditional acceptance may be granted for students who meet academic requirements but not the English language requirement, pending completion of VIU’s English Language Centre program.

Additionally, please note that:

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

It is advisable to apply as soon as possible to ensure your application is processed in a timely manner. For any clarification and support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

To meet the English language requirements for academic programs at Vancouver Island University, students must have completed one of the following tests (valid test results must be no older than 2 years):

TOEFL Paper Based Test: 550 (no section below 56)
TOEFL IBT: 88 (no section below 20)
IELTS (Academic): 6.5 (no band below 6.0)
CAEL: 60
C2 Proficiency: 176 overall
C1 Advanced: 176 overall
English Studies 12 (BC): Min. “C”
Pearson (PTE) Academic: 60 (no section below 60)
Duolingo English Test: 125 (no band less than 115)
International Baccalaureate English A1/A2: Higher Level (HL)/ Standard Level (SL) grade 3 or higher
VIU English Language Centre: Successful completion of University Preparation Level 5 (UP5)
Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition or English Literature and Composition: Grade 2 or higher
Recognized university where English is the language of instruction: Completion of six credits of post-secondary English composition and literature with a minimum grade of “C”
General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE): English at the O-level with a minimum grade of C or 4
CAEL online: 60
Pearson (PTE) Online: 60 (no section below 60)
TOEFL iBT Home Edition: 88 (no section below 20)
ILAC Pathway Program: Successful Completion of Pathway 3.3

Please note: Although VIU will accept online English proficiency tests as noted above for admission, IRCC may require you to provide proof of English language proficiency using a traditional in-person test when applying for your Study Permit.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!