Education
Bachelor of Education
Learning Mode
On Campus
Duration
5 Years (BEd Integrated Program)
Start date
September
Qualification
Bachelor of Education (BEd)
Fees
Approx. CAD 6,200/year (Domestic); CAD 21,360/year (International)
Location
Nanaimo Campus, Vancouver Island University
About the Course
The Bachelor of Education at Vancouver Island University is an integrated, five-year teacher education program designed for students who aspire to become certified K-12 educators in British Columbia and beyond. The program combines academic coursework with extensive teaching practice in real classrooms, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in diverse educational settings.
Built around a strong foundation in liberal arts, educational theory, and reflective practice, the BEd program provides students with the tools to develop inclusive, creative, and culturally responsive teaching strategies. Students benefit from small class sizes, faculty mentorship, and over 600 hours of practical teaching experience.
Graduates are eligible for a BC Teaching Certificate, opening pathways to teaching in public, private, and international schools.

Why choose Education at Vancouver?
Industry connected
Learn from highly experienced faculty and engage in extensive practicum placements within local school districts to build real-world teaching experience.
Global opportunities
Access global teaching practicums, cross-cultural placements, and international exchange programs that enrich your teaching practice.
Professional accreditation
Graduates of the BEd program meet all requirements for certification by the BC Ministry of Education’s Teacher Regulation Branch, ensuring recognition across Canada and internationally.
Course Overview
The Bachelor of Education is a direct-entry program that blends academic coursework in education with liberal arts and sciences. Through five years of study, students develop teaching competencies across subjects, along with deep understanding of pedagogy, curriculum planning, classroom management, and inclusive education.
The program also includes a professional teaching year, where students work alongside mentor teachers in elementary or secondary schools.
Course Duration
The BEd Integrated Program is completed over five years (10 semesters). Students begin with foundational courses and transition into pedagogy-focused education classes and full-time practicum experiences in their final years.
Course Curriculum
The curriculum includes:
- Foundations of Education
- Educational Psychology
- Literacy & Numeracy in Early and Middle Years
- Indigenous Education and Perspectives
- Classroom Assessment and Instructional Design
- Inclusive Education
- Curriculum & Instruction in Art, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Language Arts
- Professional Seminar & Teaching Practicum
Students complete two major field experiences:
- Mid-Program Practicum (4 weeks)
- Final Practicum (Teaching Internship) – Full semester, mentored by certified teachers
Admission Requirements
- Secondary school graduation with minimum 67% in English 12
- Completion of specific academic prerequisites (including Math, English, Science, and Social Studies courses)
- Minimum average of 75% in required courses
- Experience working with children/youth (volunteering or employment)
- Criminal record check
- Strong written personal statement
- IELTS 6.5 overall (if applicable)
Fees and Funding
- Domestic Tuition: CAD 6,200/year
- International Tuition: CAD 21,360/year
- Entrance awards, scholarships, and bursaries available
- Student loan eligibility and on-campus work-study programs offered
Career Opportunities
Graduates of VIU’s BEd program are eligible for certification and can work as:
- Elementary and Secondary School Teachers
- Learning Support Teachers
- Educational Assistants or Curriculum Developers
- Teachers in International or Private Schools
- Candidates for Master’s-level Education programs
Teaching roles are in high demand across BC and Canada, especially in rural and remote communities.
Contact Us
Reach out for any inquiries or assistance needed.