Colleges University of Victoria

University of Victoria www.uvic.ca

The University of Victoria (UVic) in British Columbia, Canada, is a globally recognized institution known for its academic excellence, research innovation, and commitment to sustainability. Established in 1963, UVic has grown to become one of Canada’s leading universities, offering students a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs on its picturesque 402-acre campus along the spectacular BC coast. Students and faculty at the university benefit from the “UVic Edge”—the powerful fusion of dynamic learning, vital research impact, and Canada’s most extraordinary academic environment for discovery and innovation. There are over 150 clubs on campus dedicated to environmental, cultural, political, religious, and recreational causes. The university’s well-designed on- and off-campus housing options cater to varied preferences and budgets, ensuring a comfortable living environment that supports academic success. UVic is a preferred destination for international students seeking high-quality education paired with research opportunities and an enriching campus life.

Academics

The University of Victoria offers an extensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. These programs span disciplines such as Engineering, Arts, Business, Health Sciences, and Fine Arts, all designed to provide hands-on learning and critical thinking opportunities. With one of Canada’s largest co-op education programs, UVic students have opportunities to apply what they learn in the classroom to communities around the globe, while preparing for future careers. UVic faculty and graduate students regularly receive national and international awards for teaching and research. UVic also attracts some of Canada’s top student leaders, and was the first university in Canada to have three students selected as 3M Canada National Student Fellows in one year. The student-faculty ratio at University of Victoria is 20:1. Popular majors include Earth & Marine Sciences, Mathematics, Computer Science, and Geophysics.

Special Highlights

Study Abroad. The International Centre for Students Exchange Program lets students study around the world. Participants will develop language skills, gain new perspectives on their field of study, and earn credit toward their degree. UVic has partner universities across the globe including Australia, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, France, and England. International field schools are intercultural short-term courses outside the classroom. Students conduct hands-on study and research overseas as they travel with a small group of students from UVic and other BC schools, working as a team under the guidance of a UVic faculty member. international practicum offers the opportunity to get work experience around the world. Students will explore different cultures and different styles of learning and teaching. The Centre for Asia-Pacific Initiatives offers a student internship program that sends students on work terms with non-governmental organizations across the Asia-Pacific region. There are also department-based programs and various international co-op and work-integrated learning opportunities.

University of Victoria Students Society (UVSS). All of the university’s undergraduate students are members of the UVSS, a social justice-based non-profit run by students, for students, and is separate from the university. The UVSS provides advocacy, representation, services, and events for UVic’s undergrads. It also operates the Student Union Building, which houses nine unique social enterprises (businesses run for social good). In addition, UVSS provides student jobs, many of which are flexible based on student schedules. There are also over 40 different course unions that represent UVic’s academic departments. Membership is open to students registered in any class of that department. Course unions plan academic events and social activities related to their area of study. UVSS also has four Professional Development Unions (PDUs). They represent the interests of students in Law, Engineering, Education, and Commerce.

School Mission & Unique Qualities

The University of Victoria was established in 1903 as Victoria College. It was initially an affiliated college of McGill University until 1915, then as an affiliate of the University of British Columbia until 1963, after which it was reorganized into an independent university. At UVic we combine three elements: dynamic learning, vital impact, and our extraordinary academic environment. Together, these three elements nurture an environment of discovery, innovation, and creativity. This fortifies our work in sustainability and healthy societies. It shapes our world view with diverse perspectives, including those from Indigenous and international communities. It fuels our commitment to economic well-being, technological advances, and social justice. Much of the university estate and endowment lands have been preserved as a nature setting, notably Finnerty Gardens and Mystic Vale, an 11-acre forested area and park. The large campus is home to deer, owls, ravens, squirrels, and many other wild animals native to the area.

Student Reviews…

“The classes are fun, educational, and interactive. There are also many clubs and campus-led initiatives. The opportunities to grow professionally are huge, and you can always count on the support from faculty and fellow peers! The campus is beautiful, especially during summer and fall, and you will always find students sitting outside in between classes studying or chatting.”