Diploma in Tourism Studies (Co-op)

Application Fees: CAD $ 150

Academic Requirements: The university generally requires a minimum average grade of 70% or higher in the final year of high school or the overall average for all completed high school years. However, specific program requirements may vary, and some programs may have higher admission standards.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5, with no band score less than 6.
• TOEFL: A minimum score of 88 on the internet-based test (iBT).
• PTE Academic: A minimum score of 60.

Vancouver Island University (VIU) is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment, the university offers various scholarships specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate diplomas.

Entrance Scholarships: VIU offers entrance scholarships to outstanding international students who are beginning their undergraduate diploma programs. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement. Eligible students are automatically considered for entrance scholarships upon admission to VIU.

Merit-Based Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships are available to international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement throughout their studies at VIU. These scholarships recognize and reward students who maintain high grades and actively contribute to the academic community. Eligibility criteria may vary, and students may need to submit an application or be nominated for consideration.

Need-Based Scholarships: VIU also provides need-based scholarships to international students who demonstrate financial need and require assistance to pursue their undergraduate diplomas. These scholarships aim to ensure that talented students have access to quality education regardless of their financial circumstances. Eligibility is typically determined through a thorough assessment of the student's financial situation.

Diversity Scholarships: As part of its commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion, VIU offers scholarships specifically aimed at supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds or marginalized communities. These scholarships may target students from certain geographic regions, ethnicities, or cultural backgrounds, providing them with opportunities to pursue their educational goals at VIU.

Achievement Scholarships: Achievement scholarships are awarded to international students who have demonstrated outstanding accomplishments in various fields such as academics, athletics, arts, or community service. These scholarships recognize students' exceptional talents, achievements, and contributions, encouraging them to continue excelling in their chosen endeavors.

Graduates of Vancouver Island University's Diploma in Tourism Studies (Co-op) program are well-equipped to pursue diverse and rewarding career opportunities in the dynamic tourism industry. With a blend of theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and industry experience gained through co-op placements, VIU alumni are prepared to thrive in various sectors of the tourism and hospitality field.

Tourism Marketing Coordinator: VIU graduates may pursue careers as tourism marketing coordinators, responsible for developing and implementing marketing strategies to promote destinations, attractions, and tourism services. They may work for tourism boards, destination marketing organizations, travel agencies, or hospitality companies, leveraging digital marketing, social media, and advertising channels to attract visitors and drive tourism revenue.

Destination Manager: With their expertise in destination management and tourism planning, VIU alumni are well-suited for roles as destination managers. They may work for tourism bureaus, government agencies, or regional development organizations, overseeing the strategic development and promotion of destinations, coordinating tourism initiatives, and collaborating with stakeholders to enhance visitor experiences and economic benefits.

Tourism Operations Manager: Graduates of VIU's Diploma program may pursue careers as tourism operations managers, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of tourism businesses, such as hotels, tour operators, attractions, or transportation services. Their responsibilities may include staff management, guest services, inventory control, financial management, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations and quality standards.

Tourism Development Officer: VIU alumni may choose to pursue careers as tourism development officers, working for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or consulting firms. In this role, they contribute to the planning and implementation of tourism development projects, such as infrastructure development, community-based tourism initiatives, sustainable tourism practices, and destination revitalization efforts, to support the growth and sustainability of tourism destinations.

Ecotourism Specialist: With a focus on sustainable tourism practices, VIU graduates may specialize in ecotourism and nature-based tourism. They may work for conservation organizations, eco-lodges, national parks, or adventure tourism companies, designing and guiding eco-friendly tours and experiences that promote environmental conservation, cultural appreciation, and responsible travel practices.

Event Coordinator: VIU alumni may also pursue careers as event coordinators specializing in tourism-related events such as festivals, conferences, and cultural celebrations. They may work for event management companies, convention bureaus, or tourism organizations, coordinating logistics, vendor management, program development, and attendee engagement to ensure the success of tourism events and enhance destination appeal.