Programs for international students
VCC offers a wide variety of programs for international students.
Full-time trades programs
Graduates of the following trades programs may start and continue their careers as tradespersons once registered with SkilledTradesBC.
- Auto Repair and Refinishing Diploma
- Artisan Baking Certificate
- Clean Energy Technology Diploma
- Culinary Arts Diploma
- Hairstylist Certificate
- Health and Wellness Professional – Cosmetology Diploma
- Heavy Mechanical Technology Diploma
- High Performance and Custom Engine Technician Diploma
- Pastry Arts Certificate
Full-time Continuing Studies programs
Here are the full-time programs offered by VCC’s Continuing Studies department:
- Cybersecurity Governance, Risk and Compliance Post-Degree Diploma
- Fashion Design and Production Diploma
- Network Technology, Administration and Security Post-Degree Diploma
Part-time, short-term and fully online studies
Part-time, short-term and fully online studies are not eligible for study permit support or PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit).
Apprenticeship training
VCC’s apprenticeship programs and courses are not open to international students, as they typically require registration with SkilledTradesBC and are intended for Canadian citizens and permanent residents. International students interested in trades at VCC should look for programs that are explicitly marked as accepting international students via the VCC Program Availability Chart. These may include foundation programs that lead into potential future apprenticeships for those who later become permanent residents, or other full-time trades programs designed for international students.
Frequently asked questions
VCC offers two Bachelor’s Degree programs for international students: Bachelor of Hospitality Management and Bachelor of Applied Music.
These two-year Bachelor’s degree programs at VCC are Year 3 and 4 of a bachelor’s degree, and require applicants to graduate from VCC’s Diplomas (Hospitality and Food Service Systems Management and Music Diploma) or officially articulated programs and institutions, or equivalent.
Breaks vary depending on programs, and some of VCC’s programs are continuous without a break. The exact dates of program breaks will be provided with class schedules before the start of each program. You may also check scheduled college closure dates in the important dates page [LINK].
The number of credits varies by program. Refer to the “Courses” section on individual program pages for details.
How do I know if my program has a practicum? Will I get paid? Do I have to find employers on my own?
Many VCC programs have practicum, and some programs offer practical training on campus. Check VCC Programs with Practicum Experience (Co-op Work Permit Required) [LINK] to find out if practicum is included in your program. Practicum is usually not paid. Information about how to find employers will be provided by individual programs.
SkilledTradesBC, recognizes the education and training hours of some of VCC’s trades programs. More details about how to register for a SkilledTradesBC test will be provided by individual programs when students are enrolled in the programs.