About University

Established in 1975, NIC has over 4500 students and home to more than 350 international students from over 36 countries. Our main campus is located in the city of Courtney, with additional campus locations in Campbell River, Port Alberni and Mt. Waddington. NIC is a public institution in the spectacular west-coast environment on Vancouver Island that inspires and prepares students for success in a rapidly changing world.

NIC is a community college committed to high quality and excellence in our programs and services. We offer more than 1000 courses and 80 credit programs supported by a dedicated faculty, staff and administration – all working together to help you achieve your goals.

Students choose from certificate, diploma, degree and post graduate programs in business, humanities, sciences, tourism, trades, fine arts and design, university studies and academic English preparation. With university studies and transfer options, students can start their university degree at NIC with affordable tuition fees and smaller class sizes for a more supportive learning environment, before transferring seamlessly on to university. The most popular choices for our students include University of Victoria, Royal Roads University, Vancouver Island University, University of Northern British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, University of British Colombia and more. Our students value the ability to gain paid work experience through our co-op and internship opportunities.

There are many year round activities to enjoy: kayaking and paddle boarding; golfing; sailing; walking along the beaches; hiking in the forest; playing sports; swimming in the rivers, ocean or lakes; visiting local farms and wineries; attending music and art festivals; cruising through the Sunday farmer’s market for fresh produce, meats, baking, beverages, flowers, and more; browsing the artisan studios and galleries; discovering local and international cuisine or the dinner theatre. Winter months are humid.

 Student life

From vibrant music festivals, skiing at Mount Washington Alpine Resort to surfing on Vancouver Island’s West Coast, NIC offers an outstanding education in one of Canada’s most spectacular international tourist destinations. Being a popular tourist destination with access to beaches, mountains, wilderness areas and lively, friendly communities, we encourage students to connect with their communities through social clubs, events and volunteering opportunities. There are opportunities for involvement in on-campus activities and events as well as peer tutoring and mentoring.