What types of Dual Credit opportunities are available at VIU?
VIU is a unique centre of education because we successfully and complementarily combine trades-based training, diplomas, and certifications with access to academic courses to get a head start on degree programs.
Trades Foundations/Level 1 Programs
Our Dual Credit Trades Foundations or Level 1 Trades Programs introduce students to essential skills and knowledge in a specific trade that is often in high demand and are immediately applicable in the world of work.
These Dual Credit opportunities aim to provide high school students in Grade 11 and/or 12 with preliminary foundational training in practical, hands-on skills such as tool use, safety protocols, and basic industry practices.
Graduates of Trades Foundations and Level 1 Trades Programs gain the entry-level competence needed to start apprenticeships or work in their chosen field, focusing on skills that are directly applicable to trades environments.
Several seats within these programs are reserved for School Districts 68 (Nanaimo/Ladysmith) and 69 (Qualicum), with opportunities for students from other districts to enroll through the Mid-Island Partnership Agreement.
Learn more about some of our Trades Foundations/Level 1 Programs across campuses:
- VIU Nanaimo Trades Dual Credit Programs
- VIU Cowichan Trades Dual Credit Programs
- VIU tiwšɛmawtxʷ Trades Dual Credit Programs
Career-related certificates
A Career-Related Certificate is a short-term, focused educational program that provides practical skills and training for specific roles in high-demand fields. These certificates prepare students for entry-level positions by combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience relevant to their chosen careers.
Here are some examples of Career-Related Certificates available to Dual Credit students at VIU:
- Dental Assistant
- Child Youth Care
- Early Childhood Education and Care
- Education Assistant and Community Support
- Health Care Assistant Program
- Office Administration
Academic courses
An academic course is a single unit of study within a broader degree program that focuses on a specific subject or topic, such as science, social sciences, or the arts. They help build knowledge and critical thinking skills through lectures, readings, assignments, and assessments.
Dual Credit students who take our academic courses may get a “head start” on some of the courses and pre-requisites required to fulfill a full academic degree, such as a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science.
Dual Credit Students can take up to two (2) academic courses per semester, not to exceed four (4) courses in one full academic year. A Dual Credit academic course equates to four (4) high school credits on a student’s high school diploma.
Note that students cannot pursue full degree programs through Dual Credit offerings and some courses and programs have limited intake, which may offer seats to Bachelor Degree students over Dual Credit Students.
Most academic Dual Credit courses will require English 12 as a pre-requisite course.
Take a Look at Course Descriptions offered at VIU as well as the Course Timetable to check course times and availability. Note that course availability may vary by academic year.
Interested in Dual Credit at VIU?
For high school students who are eager to take advantage of Dual Credit at VIU, the first point of contact is your School District Career Centre Coordinator. This individual will be able to help you with look at what is available, ensure you have the required pre-requisites, and will work with you to enroll.
We ask that students or parents interested in Dual Credit do not contact VIU directly.