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Pre-Professional Studies

VIU offers courses and programs that help you reach long term goals of professional programs and post-degree options. 

VIU grads do very well when applying to graduate schools.  Small class sizes, access to professor office hours, opportunities for undergrad student research and experiential education all contribute to the success of VIU grads as they transition to post-degree programs and professional careers.

When selecting any VIU course with a goal of transfer or application to a post-degree program at a different school, it is the student’s responsibility to check their transfer plan directly with the school to which they wish to transfer.  Read course outlines and prerequisites carefully in order to sequence courses correctly.

Continue your exploration of educational pathway at Career Cruising (username and password: malaspina) or Education Planner BC.

VIU Academic Advisors are happy to help you with this kind of planning and finding the contact information you need for your desired post-secondary institute program. We stress that you need to be in touch with the post-secondary institution that you wish to apply to in order to ensure that your plan will lead to the admission or transfer credit you desire.

 

Popular pathways to professional and post-graduate studies:

Some Masters of Architecture programs accept students from any discipline. Others require an undergraduate degree in Architecture. 

Applicants to Master of Architecture programs are usually required to hold a four year Bachelor’s degree, with a minimum GPA in 3rd and 4th year courses. Architecture programs typically include history, theory, technical and material systems, design media and studio work. Co-op or other field work experience may be included. For full Admission requirements, including grade average, refer directly to the website of the Architecture program you wish to enter as a guideline to course selection during your undergraduate degree at VIU. 

Some VIU courses and programs to consider:

Consult the website of the Architecture program  that you wish to attend, and then consult with Advisors in the VIU Advising Centre as you apply for a program and select your courses. 

Counselling occurs across a range of career and program options. All professional certified Counsellors require post secondary education.

To become a licensed counsellor, students typically follow a specific educational pathway, starting with an undergraduate degree and progressing to graduate-level education as outlined below:

Undergraduate Degree (Bachelor's Degree):

  • Choose a relevant major: While there isn't a specific undergraduate major required for counselling, many aspiring counsellors choose majors in psychology, social work, counselling psychology, or a related field.
  • Gain foundational knowledge: During your undergraduate studies, you'll take courses that provide a solid understanding of human behaviour, psychology, sociology, and counselling theories. It's also beneficial to take courses in communication, ethics, and research methods.
  • Gain experience: Seek out opportunities for hands-on experience, such as internships, volunteer work, or research assistantships in counseling-related settings. This can provide valuable insight into the field and help you determine your specific areas of interest within counselling.
  • Maintain a high GPA: Many graduate programs in counselling are competitive, so maintaining a strong academic record is important for admission.

Graduate Degree (Master's Degree):

  • Pursue a master's degree: After completing your undergraduate degree, you'll need to enroll in a master's program in counselling or a related field. Common options include a Master of Counseling, a Master of Social Work (MSW) with a concentration in counseling, or a Master of Psychology with a counselling focus.

Overall, becoming a counsellor requires a combination of academic coursework, supervised clinical experience, and licensure. It's important to research the specific requirements and regulations in your area to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria for practicing as a licensed counsellor.

It's important for individuals interested in becoming school counsellors with a Bachelor of Education to research the specific requirements and regulations in their region, as these may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the policies of individual school districts or educational institutions.

Some VIU courses/programs to consider:

Consult the Advising Centre to clarify the type of counselling work that interests you and the best educational route to get there. 

Admission to dental school requires 1 – 4 years of pre-dentistry courses. Admission is competitive and most applicants have a full undergraduate degree. In addition to completing undergraduate courses with a minimum GPA, applicants must pass the Dental Admission Test (DAT). Students are assessed on academic ability, personal qualities, aptitude tests and personal interviews, as well as DAT scores. 

To complete common prerequisite courses, students often plan a Bachelor of Science degree focusing on Biology and/or Chemistry Major or Minors.

Some VIU courses and programs to consider:

Consult the website of the Dental School(s) of interest that you wish to attend, and then consult with Advisors in the VIU Advising Centre as you apply for a program and select your courses. 

Students are also able to start completing credits that will count towards VIU’s Bachelor of Education program as a Bachelor of Arts or Exploratory student.

Some VIU programs to consider:

Some VIU courses to consider:

Consult the Advising Centre to clarify the type of education work that interests you and the best educational route to get there. 

Vancouver Island University is a signatory to the BC Common First-Year Engineering Curriculum (CFYEC). The Engineering Transfer Diploma provides a pathway into engineering studies at Simon Fraser University, Thompson Rivers University, the University of Northern British Columbia, the University of British Columbia, the University of Victoria, and the University of Alberta.

Most engineering disciplines are represented through UBC and UVIC.

  • UVIC provides electrical, software, computer, civil, biomedical, and mechanical engineering
  • UBC provides electrical, computer, mechanical, civil, engineering physics, chemical, etc

Students are encouraged to examine each institution's websites for current offerings.

VIU offer the following options for education towards work in Engineering:

Students develop and apply a strong foundation in physics, mathematics, computer programming, computer-aided drawing, as well as project management principles to engineering designs and prototype manufacture. 

Law schools require students to complete an undergraduate degree (4 year degree, e.g. BA, BSc, or BBA). Most law programs will accept an undergraduate degree in any discipline. Your goal is to include courses that will support your preparation for a law program including passing the LSAT law school entrance exam. Consider what area of law you wish to pursue, for example corporate versus criminal law. 

Law school not only offers a rigorous academic challenge but also cultivates critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for navigating the complexities of law and society. With Vancouver Island University's foundation, you possess a solid educational background to embark on this path. Whether you envision advocating for social justice, corporate law, or public service, your journey through your undergrad, and then law school, holds the promise of shaping a meaningful and impactful career.

For students interested in pursuing a career in law, there isn't a specific major required for admission to law school. However, certain majors can provide a strong foundation for the skills and knowledge needed in legal studies and practice. 

Ultimately, the best major for a pre-law student depends on their interests, strengths, and career goals. It's important for students to choose a major that they are passionate about and in which they can excel academically, as law schools typically value academic performance and critical thinking skills above all else. Additionally, students should supplement their major with coursework and experiences that develop skills such as research, writing, critical thinking, and public speaking, all of which are essential for success in law school and the legal profession.

Some VIU courses and programs to consider:

  • Political Science: Political science offers insight into government structures, legal systems, and political theory, which are directly relevant to the study of law.
  • Psychology: Psychology majors develop an understanding of human behavior and cognition, which can be beneficial in areas of law such as criminal law, family law, and litigation.
  • English: English majors focus on critical reading, writing, and communication skills, which are fundamental to legal analysis and argumentation.
  • History: History majors develop strong research, analytical, and writing skills, all of which are essential for success in law school and the legal profession.
  • Philosophy: Philosophy majors engage in rigorous analytical thinking and ethical reasoning, skills that are valuable in legal studies and practice.
  • Economics: Economics provides students with a deep understanding of how markets, policies, and regulations impact society, which is useful in various legal fields such as business law and public policy.
  • Sociology: Sociology majors study social structures, institutions, and interactions, which can offer valuable insights into issues of inequality, justice, and human behavior, all relevant to the practice of law.

Consult the website of the Law program you wish to attend, and then consult with Advisors in the VIU Advising Centre as you apply for a program and select your courses. 

Admission requirements differ between schools. Refer to the medical school admission requirements for the university program(s) of your choice.

The pursuit of a career in medicine requires dedication, resilience, and a genuine passion for serving others. With Vancouver Island University's strong academic foundation, students have the opportunity to excel in prerequisite courses while cultivating essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. Beyond academic excellence, medical schools seek applicants who demonstrate empathy, leadership, and a commitment to community service. As students navigate the rigorous application process, they are encouraged to seek mentorship, engage in clinical experiences, and participate in extracurricular activities that align with their interests and values.

Ultimately, the best major for applying to medical school in Canada depends on the student's interests, strengths, and career goals. It's important for students to choose a major that they are passionate about and in which they can excel academically, as medical schools typically value academic performance, critical thinking skills, and a well-rounded education. Additionally, students should supplement their major with coursework and experiences that develop skills such as research, communication, teamwork, and empathy, all essential for success in medical school and the medical profession.

In Canada, medical schools typically don't require specific undergraduate majors for admission. However, certain majors can provide a strong foundation for the skills and knowledge needed in medical studies and practice.

Medical schools may accept 90+ credits from a wide variety of studies. Many students interested in Medicine consider earning a Bachelor of Science with Majors or Minors in Biology, Chemistry, or Psychology. Years 1 and 2 of the VIU BSc Biology Major include all courses recommended for admission to UBC Medical School.

Some VIU programs to consider:

  • Biology: Biology majors cover fundamental concepts in biological sciences, including cell biology, genetics, physiology, and anatomy, which are directly relevant to medical studies.
  • Chemistry: Chemistry majors focus on chemical principles, which are foundational to understanding biological systems, drug interactions, and laboratory techniques used in medical research and practice.
  • Psychology: Psychology majors study human behavior and cognition, providing valuable insights into patient care, communication, and mental health, all essential aspects of medical practice.
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing: Health sciences majors offer a broad interdisciplinary approach to understanding health and disease, covering topics such as epidemiology, public health, and healthcare systems, which are relevant to medical studies and healthcare delivery. Some addition courses may need to be required for admission to Medical Schools.
  • Kinesiology: Kinesiology majors study human movement and exercise physiology, which are relevant to understanding physical health, rehabilitation, and sports medicine, important areas of medical practice.

Some VIU courses recommended for admission to Med School:

Consult the website of the Medical program you wish to attend, and then consult with Advisors in the VIU Advising Centre as you apply for a program and select your courses.

VIU students can take courses that may be transferable to other Canadian programs. 

VIU courses and programs to consider

Students can expect to take university transfer courses in:

  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • and additional subject

 

Consult the website of the naturopath program you wish to attend for transferable course details, and then consult with Advisors in the VIU Advising Centre as you apply for a program and select your courses.

Admission requirements differ between schools. Refer to the Pharmacy school admission requirements for the university program(s) of your choice.

At Vancouver Island University (VIU), a pre-pharmacy student can prepare for success in pursuing a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree or other pharmacy-related graduate programs. VIU provides a strong foundation in the fundamental sciences, including biology, and chemistry, while also integrating coursework specific to pharmaceutical sciences.

Students at VIU benefit from small class sizes, allowing for personalized attention and mentorship from experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields. VIU courses emphasize hands-on learning experiences, including laboratory work and research projects, to help students develop critical thinking skills and practical knowledge relevant to pharmacy practice.

Furthermore, VIU offers opportunities for students to gain real-world experience through internships. Pre-Pharmacy students are encouraged to seek volunteer work experience and partnerships with local healthcare organizations and pharmacies. These experiences allow students to apply their knowledge in clinical settings, interact with patients and healthcare professionals, and develop the practical skills and professional competencies needed for a career in pharmacy.

Overall, the pre-pharmacy program at Vancouver Island University provides students with a solid academic foundation, practical experience, and supportive learning environment to help them achieve their goals of becoming successful pharmacists and leaders in the field of pharmacy.

Some VIU programs to consider:

  • Biology: Biology majors cover fundamental concepts in biological sciences, including cell biology, genetics, physiology, and anatomy, which are directly relevant to medical studies.
  • Biochemistry: Biochemistry majors delve into the chemical processes within living organisms, providing a strong understanding of molecular biology and metabolism, essential for understanding human physiology and pharmacology.
  • Chemistry: Chemistry majors focus on chemical principles, which are foundational to understanding biological systems, drug interactions, and laboratory techniques used in medical research and practice.
  • Psychology: Bachelor of Science Psychology majors study human behavior and cognition, providing valuable insights into patient care, communication, and mental health, all essential aspects of medical practice.

Some VIU courses to consider:

Most schools will require or recommend university courses in:

Consult the website of the Pharmacy program you wish to attend, and then consult with Advisors in the VIU Advising Centre as you apply for a program and select your courses.

 

These post-degree graduate programs will have differing admission requirements that also vary from school to school. 

VIU courses and programs to consider

VIU Bachelor of Kinesiology graduates have gone on to graduate degree programs in therapy (physiotherapy, occupational therapy, athletic therapy) all across Canada. 

VIU Bachelor of Science can also provide excellent undergraduate education for these goals.

Typical minimum required subjects for admission to Physiotherapy:

  • Physics (3 credits) or Grade 12 Physics
  • Chemistry (3 credits) or Grade 12
  • Human anatomy (3 credits)
  • Psychology (3 credits)
  • Statistics (3 credits)
  • Human physiology (6 credits)

Pre-Social Work Bachelor of Social Work but you apply to this program after 60-66 credits of study in either the Social Services Diploma or other program in which you acquire the 60 credits of admission requirements.  Learn more on the Bachelor of Social Work Department page and specifically the Frequently Asked Questions page.

VIU Offers a

Some Masters of Social Work programs accept students from any discipline. Others require an undergraduate degree in Social Work. 

VIU courses and programs to consider

Applicants to Master of Social Work programs are usually required to hold a four year Bachelor’s degree, with a minimum GPA in 3rd and 4th year courses. Master of Social Work programs typically require experience (2 or more years) in the human service, social services, or a closely related field. For full Admission requirements, including grade average, refer directly to the website of the Social Work program you wish to enter as a guideline to course selection during your undergraduate degree at VIU. 

Consult the website of the Social Work program you wish to attend, and then consult with Advisors in the VIU Advising Centre as you apply for a program and select your courses. 

Admission to Veterinary school is competitive and requires two to four years of pre-veterinary or science courses at university.

Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) at the University of Saskatchewan accepts 20 students from BC per year. *check for changes to the provincial seat quota in Spring 2023.

Currently, U Calgary and U Guelph veterinary programs admit Canadian students from their respective provinces only. They also admit international applicants. 

VIU applicants to Veterinary school at WCVM can complete all prerequisite courses in 3 years, though, as admission is competitive, most completed a full degree, often BSc Major in Biology, though other options are possible.

Some VIU courses/programs to consider:

Consult the website of the Veterinary program you wish to attend, and then consult with Advisors in the VIU Advising Centre as you apply for a program and select your courses.