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Frequently asked questions

Programs FAQ

UFV Programs of Study

UFV offers more than 100 programs, including two master’s degrees, 17 bachelor’s degrees, majors, minors, and extended minors in more than 35 subject areas, and more than a dozen trades and technology programs. Our admission policies are flexible, and students can learn in a variety of ways: full-time, part-time, in-class, online, as part of a structured program or one tailored completely to their interests. You can study Arts, Business Administration, Computer Information Systems, Criminal Justice, Science, and many other programs.

Many of our programs ladder into one another, allowing students to earn a one-year certificate and/or a two-year diploma on the way to completing a full degree. Our flexible programming allows you to begin your studies at UFV, change your program, graduate from UFV, or transfer to another BC university with full credit.

 Info for domestic or landed students:

Check out UFV's program list for a detailed list of degree programs, certificates, and diplomas available at UFV.

 Info for international students:

UFV’s academic preparation programs such as English as a Second Language (ESL), and the University Foundation program provide you with the skills and credits you need to continue directly into the academic or career/technical program of your choice.

Consult our International Personal Study Wizard to explore UFV programs available to international students.


Typically, your first year of university provides you with an opportunity to explore options and interests.

This said, however, a university education is both an investment and opportunity: take advantage of any resources you have available to you to find out more about careers and fields of study before you come to university. If you have access to career counselling at your high school, make an appointment.

You can also talk to an educational advisor to discuss your educational choices.

 Info for domestic or landed students:

Academic advisors at UFV can help you set goals and discuss your options. Before you meet an advisor, review UFV's program options.

Advising appointments are available between 9 am and 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, in person or on the phone. Make an appointment with a UFV advisor.

 Info for international students:

International advisors at UFV are knowledgeable about the study and career choices available to International students. Before you meet an international advisor, review program options open to international students at UFV.

Advising appointments are available between 8 am and 4 pm Monday through Friday, in person, on the phone, or through Skype. Book an appointment with an international advisor.

You can also contact UFV International to discuss your individual interests and academic qualifications.


Generally speaking, a certificate takes two full-time semesters (15 credits or more) to complete and a diploma takes four semesters. A bachelor's degree takes eight semesters, a post-degree certificate a year or less and a master's degree two years. In reality, each program varies in length, so be sure to consult the Academic Calendar to find information about your specific program.

 Info for international students:

Some factors may affect how long it takes to complete your program:

  • Do you need to upgrade your English before you start full time academic studies?
  • Do you have credits you wish to transfer from another institution in your country?
  • Are you planning to take summer classes?

Use UFV International's Personal Study Tool for a time completion estimate based on your English score.


At UFV, students are able to select their own courses according to what will best suit their schedule.

The standard academic year consists of our Fall semester (September – December) and Winter semester (January – April). UFV also offers an optional summer semester (May – August) which gives students the opportunity to do full time studies, combine part-time studies and work, or take a study break.  Doing summer courses gives students the possible advantage of completing a credential sooner than the standard length of time; for example; instead of four years for a degree, it may only take three or three and a half years. 

While a slightly lighter course load is permitted in an academic semester, it is not a popular option because it lengthens the usual time it takes to complete a credential and increases the overall cost of studies.

 Info for international students:

International students are expected to study full-time each semester during the academic year.  A full-time UFV international student takes five academic courses (approx. 15 credits) in both the fall and winter semesters. This course load ensures timely completion of credentials.

Tuition is also not adjusted to accommodate a lighter course load in the fall and winter semesters unless it is the student’s last semester and fewer than 5 courses are needed to graduate.  The summer semester is considered optional and international students will only be charged on a per-credit basis in the summer.


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