Master Of Arts - Sustainable Leisure Management 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 Master of Arts in Sustainable Leisure Management program at Vancouver Island University (VIU) is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to address sustainability challenges in leisure and tourism. Offered at the beautiful Nanaimo campus, this program emphasizes a non-traditional approach to learning, integrating field experiences with classroom instruction. Students will explore innovative leisure practices and ecotourism within a global context, guided by expert faculty who are leaders in the field. The program aims to prepare emerging leaders to create sustainable solutions that benefit both residents and travelers, ensuring enjoyable recreational experiences while preserving natural and cultural resources.

Program Structure

The Master of Arts in Sustainable Leisure Management program spans a total of two years and requires the completion of 33 credits. The program is structured as follows:

Year 1 – Fall Semester: 9 credits
Year 1 – Spring Semester: 15 credits
Year 2 – Fall and Spring Semesters: 9 credits

Students will engage in a combination of coursework and field experiences, focusing on:

Principles and practices of leisure and sustainability
Research capabilities and knowledge mobilization skills
A required thesis component to demonstrate mastery of knowledge mobilization approaches

Additionally, there is a laddering option available for graduates of VIU's Sustainable Leisure Management Graduate Diploma, allowing them to apply for the Master's program with a focus on thesis work.

Featured Experiences

Experiential learning opportunities through field experiences and classroom instruction.
Engagement with diverse stakeholders on complex leisure and sustainability issues.
Opportunities to conduct applied research on specific leisure, innovation, and sustainability topics.
Access to expert faculty who are leaders in the field of sustainable leisure management.
International educational setting that enhances learning through a global perspective.

Career Options

Graduates of the Master of Arts in Sustainable Leisure Management can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Sustainability Officer: Responsible for developing and implementing sustainability initiatives within organizations.
Analyst: Analyzes data related to leisure and sustainability to inform policy and decision-making.
Manager: Oversees programs and projects that promote sustainable leisure practices.
Coordinator: Coordinates events and activities that align with sustainability goals in leisure services.
Director: Leads strategic planning and policy development for sustainability in leisure and tourism sectors.

These roles require strong communication skills, analytical abilities, and a commitment to innovative leadership practices in sustainable leisure services.

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 for the Master of Arts in Sustainable Leisure Management at Vancouver Island University (VIU) as an international student, you need to meet the following Academic Requirements:

Minimum GPA: A minimum “B” average in the final 2 years of a Bachelor’s degree is required.
International students can apply through:
- Direct applications (online or paper applications)
- Applications through authorized representatives
- Institution-to-institution exchange programs
- Sponsorship through inter-governmental agreements
- Winners of academic competitions or international scholarships
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For Vietnamese and other Asian students, the following documents are typically required:

Your official transcripts
Certified English translation of any documents issued in a language other than English
Copy of your passport (photo page)
Copy of high school graduation diploma (if available)
Copy of university degree (if available)

It is important to apply as soon as possible, as specific deadlines may vary. For any clarifications or 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!

Last updated on 2025-07-16

Program overview