First Year University Studies

About the Program

The Arts One Indigenous Perspectives Certificate is your gateway to post-secondary education. Students earn credit in foundational university courses that are transferrable to most diploma programs at VIU and elsewhere while receiving a unique credential for completing their first year of studies. The entire certificate can be completed right here at home through innovative courses tailored to meet the needs of this community.

The Certificate includes 30 credits of post-secondary credit courses, the equivalent of one year of full-time study. It combines 12 credits in Indigenous Studies, which is quickly becoming mandatory content in programs across the country, with 6 credits of English and 12 elective credits that can be obtained through in-person, online, or hybrid delivery options. There is even the opportunity in summer to complete intensive, experiential courses that take place on the land rather than in the classroom.

Upon completion, students can immediately add the Certificate credential to their resume and use it toward further post-secondary education. All courses can also be taken individually without pursuing the full certificate or as part of other diploma and certificate programs.

tiwšɛmawtxʷ Campus

The university studies program at the tiwšɛmawtxʷ campus in Powell River is designed to provide students with a rewarding and engaging learning experience, in preparation for further academic study.

Students may receive transfer credit for these courses at any of the colleges or universities in the provinces. Students can check transfer credit at BC Articulation and Transfer.

Students who would like to take distance education courses through VIU or other post-secondary institutions can meet with an advisor to discuss their options. The tiwšɛmawtxʷ campus of VIU can provide access to the computer labs and student support services. For more information, or to contact about these services, please visit an advisor for details.

Students may go on to complete a degree at Vancouver Island University or at other universities. These courses could be part of programs leading to a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Social Work, Bachelor of Child and Youth Care, Bachelor of Elementary Education, and Bachelor of Liberal Studies. Elective courses can be taken towards Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Science and other diplomas and degrees.

Classes begin in September and January.

Why I Study Here!

Read testimonials from students who have attended VIU tiwšɛmawtxʷ.

General Admission Requirements

No application deadline date, however register early as space is limited

Canadian citizens and those with permanent residence status in Canada are eligible for admission to University programs if they meet one of the following conditions:

• Graduation from a BC secondary school, or equivalent, with a minimum “C” grade in English 12 or equivalent*
• Previous degree from a recognized university
• Visiting student from a College or University (a “Letter of Permission” from the home institution is required)
• Transfer student from a College or University (at least 24 transferable university-level credits completed)
• Mature student – at least 21 years of age (or will turn 21 in the first semester of admission) and has a minimum “C” grade in English 12 or equivalent*
• Unclassified Student - students who do not meet any of the admission categories above may be admitted as an “Unclassified Student” and register in classes for which they meet the prerequisite. Unclassified students are not eligible for "Continuing Student" status and must reapply each academic year into which they would like to register.

Courses Offered

Fall 2023

• English 115 - University Writing and Research
• Indigenous Studies 103 - Introduction to Indigenous/Xwulmuxw Studies I
• Psychology 121 - Developmental Psychology
• Sociology 112 - Canadian Society in the Contemporary World

Spring 2024

• English 125 - Literature and Culture
• Global Studies 100 - Through the Global Lens
• Indigenous Studies 104 - Introduction to Indigenous/Xwulmuxw Studies II
• Psychology 122 - Developmental Psychology

Intersession 2024

• Indigenous Studies 300 - Indigenous Knowledge: Land as Life

Generate a Course Timetable

Fees*

(Approximate)

*Subject to change - please check for updates

Additional Expenses

• Required textbooks (approx. per course): $120.00

Financial Assistance

Financial Assistance may be available to students demonstrating financial need. This program is government student loan eligible. Applications for the academic year are available each June online at StudentAidBC or at Vancouver Island University.

Learn more about available funding sources.

Are you studying part time? If so, see an advisor eligible for a Part-Time Studies Grant.