University of Victoria

Not many schools can offer a campus surrounded by ocean, mountains and forests, with just a 10-minute walk to the beach. In fact, the University of Victoria has so much green space that students flock outdoors in the springtime—which comes in early March—to study and sunbathe on blankets. The location also influences the identity of UVic, which has research strengths in ocean and climate health, Indigenous knowledge, clean growth, health sciences and sustainable communities. “At UVic, we are inspired by our surroundings, by the people, places and communities we hold dear,” says acting president Robina Thomas. “Through this inspiration and understanding, we are striving to do what post-secondary institutions should — make this a better world. We achieve our success by providing unique opportunities for our students, efforts in reconciliation and by making a meaningful impact with creativity, innovative research and collaborative community-centred partnerships.” Ocean Networks Canada, a UVic initiative, manages cabled ocean observatories off the western and eastern coasts of Canada and in the Arctic, producing data that help communities, governments and industry make informed decisions about the ocean. Both the Pacific Climate Impacts Consortium and the Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions focus on solving climate challenges through collaborative research. An engineering complex expansion is set to open in September. The faculty of fine arts is home to programs in music, writing, visual arts and theatre.

Campus buzz: UVic’s men’s basketball team won the 2024–25 U SPORTS Final 8 Men’s Basketball Championship for the first time since 1997.

Quick facts

Tuition (includes compulsory ancillary fees) $7,374

Median Entering Grades
Arts: 92% | Science: 91% | Commerce: 88% | Engineering: 92% 

Student Body
Undergraduates: Full-time: 13,919 | Part-time: 4,623
Graduates: Full-time: 3,114 | Part-time: 228
International Students: First-year: 6% | Graduate: 37%

Housing Facts
Residence Spaces: 2,872 (guaranteed for first-years who apply by May 1) 
Cost of double room with meals: $13,829
Cost of single room with meals:  $15,785 to $16,369
Cost of apartment-style: $9,653 to $12,552 

Standout programs

Indigenous Language Revitalization: This program, developed in partnership with Indigenous communities, teaches students approaches to language teaching, as well as language policy and cultural renewal methods. Graduates work on revitalization efforts in education, government and community organizations. 

Artificial Intelligence and Technology Management: This business specialization prepares students for careers in digital industries. Students learn how to use AI responsibly, build apps, analyze data and lead technology management projects. 

Health Information Science: This program bridges health care, management and technology. Students learn to optimize and improve health care using tech.

Reputation

Ranked #2 (Comprehensive) among faculty members and hiring managers in the 2025 reputation survey, powered by Angus Reid Group.