Whether you’re a hobby farmer or a seasoned agricultural professional, you’ll learn something new in the agriculture courses at VIU. We offer our Agriculture Micro-credential Certificate Program as well as our shorter workshops. The courses are taught by local experts who understand the challenges Vancouver Island growers face.
Agriculture Micro-Credential Certificate (non-credit)
If you're passionate about farming, market gardening or home-based growing, this certificate might be just what you're looking for. Developed with regional colleges and universities in BC, these agriculture courses delve into sustainable, regenerative and agro-ecological farming. Each course features nine to ten sessions (30 to 35 hours of direct instruction). This is a combination of online scheduled classes and in-person field days for most courses.
Courses
Sustainable Soils Management: Surviving to Thriving
September - October 2025
Dig into soil science and soil community regeneration.
Agroecology: Perspectives, Principles, and Practices
October - December 2025
Learn about agroecological principles, biodiversity and ecosystem restoration.
Livestock Husbandry
January 2026
Develop the essentials skills for livestock management and welfare.
Seed Security: Organic Vegetable Seed Production
February - April 2026
Explore the science of organic seed production and related regulatory environments in Canada.
Expand your knowledge and skills in these vital areas with this exciting new opportunity!
Workshops
Enhance your agricultural skills and environmental knowledge with workshops on sustainable agriculture. The workshops offered will vary throughout the year based on seasonality, and the availability of our guest instructors. They will be approximately 2-6 hours long, and will run in the evenings or on the weekend. If there is a workshop that you would like to see, please let us know by emailing PDTagriculture@viu.ca.
These workshops are held in person at Providence Farm at 1843 Tzouhalem Road in Duncan or at the Cowichan Campus at 2011 University Way Duncan (unless otherwise indicated). Follow the workshop link for information on registration.
Want to know more?
We're working on lots of exciting agriculture offerings. Sign up for emails for updates about these and other agriculture and gardening courses and programs.