Bachelor Of Arts - Studies In Women And Gender 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 Studies in Women and Gender at Vancouver Island University (VIU) is designed for students interested in exploring how gender functions as a marker of power in society. This program employs interdisciplinary approaches to critically examine the construction and maintenance of gender through cultural production, institutions, and ideologies. Grounded in feminist theory, the program emphasizes the importance of a participatory classroom that values diverse life experiences. Students can choose to pursue a Major or Minor in this field, equipping them with the skills to become strategic thinkers and social critics.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Arts in Studies in Women and Gender is structured as follows:

Program Length: 4 Years
Credential: Bachelor Degree
Credits Required: A total of 120 credits, including:
- 12 credits in Years 1 and 2, with a minimum of 6 credits from SWAG courses.
- 30 credits of upper-level SWAG courses in Years 3 and 4.
Program Options: Major and Minor available.
Locations: Fully available at Nanaimo; partially available at Cowichan and tiwšɛmawtxʷ (Powell River).

Students are encouraged to consult with the program chair early in their planning process to ensure they meet all requirements for their chosen path.

Featured Experiences

Interdisciplinary approaches to gender studies.
Participatory classroom environment that values diverse experiences.
Focus on feminist theory and intersectionality.
Opportunities for community engagement and activism.
Access to a variety of elective courses from other departments that complement gender studies.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Studies in Women and Gender can pursue various career paths in Canada, including:

Social Worker: Support individuals and families in overcoming challenges and accessing resources.
Community Organizer: Mobilize communities to advocate for social change and address local issues.
Policy Analyst: Research and analyze policies related to gender and social justice, providing recommendations for improvement.
Human Rights Advocate: Work with organizations to promote and protect human rights, focusing on gender equality.
Educator: Teach gender studies or related subjects at various educational levels, fostering critical thinking and awareness.

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 at 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 (specific tests and scores are detailed in the English language requirements section).
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 who attended high school in a country where English is not the official language, a recognized English Language Proficiency test must be submitted (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.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

It is important to note that some academic programs may have additional Academic Requirements and course prerequisites. Therefore, students are encouraged to check the specific program requirements for the Bachelor of Arts - Studies in Women and Gender.

For any clarification and support regarding the application process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. We are here to help you navigate your journey to VIU!

Language Requirements

To meet the English language requirements for academic programs at Vancouver Island University (VIU), students must have completed one of the following recognized English Language Proficiency tests (valid within the past 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!