Vancouver Island University provides many services for prospective and enrolled students. To find out more about these services, drop by our Student Affairs office, call 250-746-3509.
Academic Support
There are several ways that students can get learning support at Cowichan Campus:
- One-on-one learning skills counselling is available at the Learning Centre.
- Handouts and other resource material are available at the Learning Centre.
- Volunteer tutors are available for most subjects by filling out a request form and meeting with the Volunteer Tutor Coordinator.
- Workshops are scheduled at the beginning of each term, as well as by request from instructors.
- Counsellors will help with issues of anxiety and other school-related issues.
Disability Access Services
Vancouver Island University provides educational opportunities and support services to non-traditional learners, as well as to students with documented disabilities that meet Ministry guidelines. For information on available services for students who are considering or enrolling in University programs or courses, please contact Vancouver Island University three months prior to the start of classes. Some services and funding take time to arrange, so you are advised to plan ahead by calling Student Affairs to discuss your needs. In Duncan, please contact Student Affairs at 250-746-3509 for an appointment.
Advising
Advisors help students develop an educational plan to meet career goals. They also assist with interpretation of program requirements at Vancouver Island University. Students seeking admission should see an Advisor. Appointments are available during office hours Monday to Friday. We also provide Drop-in Advising on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Friday, 9 am until 12 noon. Call 250-746-3509 or email advising.cowichan@viu.ca.
Assessment & Exam Invigilation Services
Entrance assessments for most programs offered at Vancouver Island University's Cowichan and Nanaimo campuses can be written at the Cowichan Campus. If you need to “brush up” before your assessment, help is available. Invigilation (proctoring) of exams or assessments – including paper and most online exams -for other colleges, universities, professional and educational institutions is provided for a fee. Call 250-746-3509 for information.
Counselling Services
Support is available for enrolled students experiencing personal, career or academic difficulties. Referrals may be made to other community services. Call 250-746-3509 for information.
Financial Aid and Awards
For complete information about financial aid, see the Vancouver Island University calendar. Student Affairs can help with a variety of financial assistance including institutional scholarships, awards and bursaries, government student loans and grants, and work-op student employment. Be sure to plan ahead. Call 250-746-3509 for information.
Services for Aboriginal Students
Information, support and referrals are provided to assist students of Native ancestry in their academic endeavours. Students enrolled at the Cowichan Campus also have the added support and wisdom of our Elder-in-Residence. Call 250-746-3509 for information.
Human Rights and Respectful Workplace Advisor
Vancouver Island University will endeavour to provide students with a learning environment free of discrimination. Students who think they may be experiencing discrimination or harassment because of their race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, political belief, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex (including sexual harassment and pregnancy discrimination), sexual orientation, age or unrelated prior criminal conviction can consult the Human Rights and Respectful Workplace Advisor. The Advisor can help students assess the situation, identify appropriate ways to respond, assist with dispute resolution, or commence a formal process.
To make an appointment with the Human Rights and Respectful Workplace Advisor at the Cowichan Campus, call 250-746-3509; or call directly to the Human Rights and Respectful Workplace Advisor in Nanaimo at 250-740-6430, or e-mail humanr@viu.ca.
Prior Learning Assessment
Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) allows individuals who have acquired learning through non-formal education (such as work experience, self study, volunteer activities, and other life experiences) to be granted credit toward an educational program at Vancouver Island University. For further information and/or an appointment, please call 250-746-3509.