Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate at Vancouver Island University

Programme overview

You played with diggers in the sandbox as a kid and you’re not afraid to get a little dirty. As a heavy equipment operator (HEO), you enter a career with a wide range of options. HEO training at VIU is like pilot training.

Faculty: Trades and Applied Technology | Duration: 17 weeks | Study mode: full-time | Location: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada

What you will study

Courses include Road Builder & Heavy Construction Foundation, Heavy Equipment Operator Technician, Excavator, Backhoe, Dozer, Grader, Articulated Rock Truck/Loader Combo, Articulated Rock Truck.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

General Admission Requirements; Class 5 Driver's License that must be maintained throughout the program; Interview may be required; Successful completion of assessment testing; Personal Profile; See also Trades general admission requirements; Recommendations for Admission; Minimum 18 years of age (exceptions may be allowed); Grade 12 or equivalent (exceptions may be allowed); English 10, Science 10, and either Mathematics 10, Apprenticeship and Workplace Math 10, or Foundations of Mathematics and Pre-Calculus 10; Physically fit and able to adapt to rugged working conditions; Strong interest and aptitude for equipment operation; Students should check with the Program Assistant toll-free at 1.888.920.2221 Ext. 6227 for details.; Transfer from other institutions; Students who have taken the Heavy Equipment Operator Foundations program may qualify for advanced placement and should check...

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the courses you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

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