University Diploma - Social Services at VIU - Vancouver Island University - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-03-31

Program overview

+25

Program Overview

The Social Services Diploma Program at Vancouver Island University (VIU) is designed for individuals who aspire to make a positive impact in their communities. This program emphasizes the importance of diversity, empathy, collaboration, and inclusiveness in the social services field. Students will gain a solid foundation in key areas such as developmental psychology, trauma resiliency, and conflict resolution. Graduates will emerge as advocates for human rights and social justice, equipped to support vulnerable populations and contribute to stronger communities.

Program Structure

The Social Services Diploma Program is structured to be completed in 2 years and offers both full-time and part-time options. The program consists of:

Program Length: 2 Years
Credits: 60 credits total
Core courses covering essential topics in social services
Elective courses from various disciplines relevant to human services
Workplace-based projects and assignments to apply classroom learning

Upon successful completion, students will receive a diploma and earn credits towards VIU's Bachelor of Social Work and Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care degrees. Additionally, courses can be taken at the Cowichan campus.

Featured Experiences

Hands-on learning through workplace-based projects
Integration of theory and practice in real-world settings
Opportunities for elective courses in diverse disciplines
Practicum experience to gain practical skills in the field

Career Options

Graduates of the Social Services Diploma Program can pursue a variety of rewarding careers in Canada, including:

Human Service Assistant: Support individuals in accessing community resources and services.
Probation Officer: Supervise offenders placed on probation and help them reintegrate into society.
Rehabilitation Counsellor: Assist individuals with disabilities in achieving personal and professional goals.
School Counselor: Provide guidance and support to students in educational settings.
Marriage and Family Therapist: Help families and couples navigate challenges and improve relationships.

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 for the University Diploma in Social Services 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.
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 the 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 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!