Aboriginal Construction Certificate at Vancouver Island University

Programme overview

The Aboriginal Construction Program provides an opportunity to gain skills and knowledge that give a head start in the construction industry with the benefit of learning coastal First Nations construction history and methods. Developed in consultation with the coastal First Nation's communities this program is designed for aboriginal learners with components that include recognition of cultural issues regarding education and traditional construction as well as skills development in areas such as mathematics and

Faculty: Trades and Applied Technology | Duration: 10 months | Study mode: full-time | Location: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada

What you will study

Courses include Safe Work Practices, Documentation and Organizational Skills, Tools and Equipment, Survey Instrument and Equipment, Access, Rigging and Hoisting Equipment, Site Layout, Concrete Form Work, Wood Frame Construction.

Career pathways

The current condition across the province is that there are more opportunities than employees in the construction industry; graduates from this program will have options in residential, commercial and industrial construction. Graduates will also find opportunities within their own communities working with First Nations to construct or maintain housing, and other community construction projects. Roles include Work Placement Opportunities.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Grade 12, or equivalent, or mature student status, or on recommendation of program Chair.; Minimum 17 years of age.; Successful completion of assessment testing or recommendation of program Chair.; Interview will be required.; Notes on Admission; Preference will be given to aboriginal students, especially those with a Vancouver Island First Nations heritage. Documentation may be requested. Non–aboriginal students will be considered if space remains available.; Physically fit and able to adapt to working conditions.; Good hand/eye coordination.; Good health, free of vision, hearing or respiratory ailments.; If student wishes to operate vehicles and equipment a valid driver’s license will be required.; Enrolment in this program is limited. Students who meet or exceed the minimum admission requirements may not necessarily be admitted to the program.

Domestic applicants: CAD 5,193 for the whole programme. Tuition (10 months x $519.36 per month); Fees. Tuition only; excludes student, activity, health plan and other mandatory fees. Source

Most programmes start in September; January intake is offered for some bachelor's degrees and other programmes; many programmes offer alternative start dates throughout the year.

Applications for most academic programs open October 1 in the year before the program start date (applications for programs beginning September 2027 open October 1, 2026); deadlines vary by program.

Application fee: domestic undergraduate $46.98, domestic graduate $121.86, international all programs $156.06 (non-refundable); no application fee for Adult Basic Education.

Apply through the official page: https://www.viu.ca/apply

Explore more study programmes

Engineering