Bachelor Of Arts - English 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

The Bachelor of Arts in English at Vancouver Island University (VIU) is designed for students who are passionate about literature and writing. This program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, research, and communication skills, which are highly valued in today’s job market. Students will explore a diverse range of literary studies, traditions, and theoretical issues, gaining a comprehensive understanding of culture and literature. The program offers both major and minor options, as well as an Honours track for those looking to deepen their academic engagement. Graduates will leave with a strong foundation in literary analysis and effective communication, preparing them for various career paths.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Arts in English program is structured as follows:

Program Length: 4 Years
Credential: Bachelor Degree
Options: Honours, Major, Minor
Location: Fully available at Nanaimo; partially available at Cowichan and tiwšɛmawtxʷ (Powell River)

This program requires students to complete a minimum of 120 credits, including:

6 credits from Degree English Requirements in Year 1
12 credits of 200-level English courses in Year 2
30 credits of English courses numbered 300 or above in Years 3 and 4

Students are encouraged to engage in collaborative learning and may have opportunities for internships or co-op placements, enhancing their practical experience in the field.

Featured Experiences

Exposure to a wide range of literary studies and cultural contexts.
Opportunities for collaborative learning and peer engagement.
Capstone project in the Honours program, allowing for in-depth research.
Courses designed to enhance both oral and written communication skills.
Access to faculty mentorship, especially during the capstone project.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in English program can pursue various career paths in Canada, including:

Editor: Responsible for reviewing and revising written content for publication, ensuring clarity and coherence.
Content Writer: Creates engaging content for websites, blogs, and marketing materials, focusing on audience engagement.
Public Relations Specialist: Manages communication between organizations and the public, crafting press releases and media strategies.
Teacher: Educates students in literature and writing, fostering critical thinking and communication skills.
Research Analyst: Conducts research and analysis on various topics, providing insights and recommendations based on findings.

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 for the Bachelor of Arts - English program at Vancouver Island University (VIU) as an international student, you must meet the following Academic 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.

For applicants who attended high school in English-speaking countries, the following criteria apply:

International students who are BC high school graduates must have a minimum grade of “C” in English 12 for direct entry into an academic program.
International students who have completed high school in English, in a country where English is considered the official language, must have a minimum grade equivalent to a grade of “C” in English 12 in British Columbia.

For applicants from countries where English is not the official language:

Must submit a recognized English Language Proficiency test (valid within the past 2 years).
Conditional acceptance may be granted for students who meet academic requirements but not the English language requirement, pending completion of VIU’s English Language Centre program.

Additionally, please note that:

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 or 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 recognized English Language Proficiency tests (valid within the past 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!