Bachelor Of Arts - Creative Writing And Journalism at VIU - Vancouver Island University - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-12-11

Program overview

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Program Overview

Do you want to write for a living? In VIU’s Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing and Journalism program, you will learn the skills you need to become a master of words from professors who are published, award-winning authors, poets, and journalists. This program is designed to sharpen your literary skills and introduce you to the realities of working as a professional writer, whether you aspire to work in the publishing, entertainment, or journalism industries.

Experience small class sizes for a unique workshop format in many creative writing courses, allowing for more one-on-one time with instructors at Vancouver Island University's journalism school. The program offers a comprehensive education in both creative writing and journalism, preparing you for a successful career in various writing fields.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing and Journalism program is structured as follows:

Program Length: 4 Years
Credential: Bachelor Degree
Credits Required: A total of 120 credits, including:
- Minimum of 21 credits from 300 and 400-level Creative Writing courses.
- Minimum of 12 credits from 100 and 200-level Creative Writing courses.
Program Options: Major and Minor in Creative Writing, Minor in Journalism.
Locations: Fully available at Nanaimo; partially available at Cowichan and tiwšɛmawtxʷ (Powell River).

This program also offers opportunities for internships and practical experiences, allowing students to gain real-world skills and connections in the industry.

Featured Experiences

Small class sizes for personalized instruction and feedback.
Unique workshop format in creative writing courses.
Access to experienced faculty who are published authors and industry professionals.
Opportunities for internships in writing and publishing.
Hands-on experience in various writing genres, including fiction, poetry, and journalism.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing and Journalism program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Journalist: Report on news and events, conduct interviews, and write articles for newspapers, magazines, or online platforms.
Content Writer: Create engaging content for websites, blogs, and social media, focusing on brand storytelling and audience engagement.
Editor: Review and revise written content for clarity, coherence, and adherence to style guidelines in publishing houses or media organizations.
Copywriter: Write persuasive marketing and advertising copy for various media, helping businesses promote their products and services.
Author: Write and publish books, novels, or poetry collections, contributing to the literary world and sharing unique stories.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit VIU - Vancouver Island University official website

Last updated on 2025-12-11

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply as an international student for admission to Vancouver Island University (VIU), you must meet the following requirements:

Graduation from high school or equivalent. (Refer to the High school completion equivalency list by country for specific details.)
Proof of meeting English language requirements, which may include recognized English Language Proficiency tests.
For applicants who attended high school in English-speaking countries, a minimum grade of “C” in English 12 is required for direct entry into an academic program.
For applicants from non-English speaking countries, a recognized English Language Proficiency test must be submitted, valid within the past 2 years.
International students who have completed high school in English must have a minimum grade equivalent to a grade of “C” in English 12 in British Columbia.
Academic programs may have additional program Academic Requirements and course prerequisites. Please check your specific program requirements.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

It is advisable to apply as soon as possible to ensure your application is processed in a timely manner. For any clarification and support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

To meet the English language requirements for academic programs at Vancouver Island University, students must have completed one of the following tests (valid test results must be no older than 2 years):

TOEFL Paper Based Test: 550 (no section below 56)
TOEFL IBT: 88 (no section below 20)
IELTS (Academic): 6.5 (no band below 6.0)
CAEL: 60
C2 Proficiency: 176 overall
C1 Advanced: 176 overall
English Studies 12 (BC): Min. “C”
Pearson (PTE) Academic: 60 (no section below 60)
Duolingo English Test: 125 (no band less than 115)
International Baccalaureate English A1/A2: Higher Level (HL)/ Standard Level (SL) grade 3 or higher
VIU English Language Centre: Successful completion of University Preparation Level 5 (UP5)
Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition or English Literature and Composition: Grade 2 or higher
Recognized university where English is the language of instruction: Completion of six credits of post-secondary English composition and literature with a minimum grade of “C”
General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE): English at the O-level with a minimum grade of C or 4
CAEL online: 60
Pearson (PTE) Online: 60 (no section below 60)
TOEFL iBT Home Edition: 88 (no section below 20)
ILAC Pathway Program: Successful Completion of Pathway 3.3

Please note: Although VIU will accept online English proficiency tests as noted above for admission, IRCC may require you to provide proof of English language proficiency using a traditional in-person test when applying for your Study Permit.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!