How do I apply?
You can apply online or print an application form and mail it in. Apply to VIU
What are the costs of text books and supplies?
Approximately $800
What are the other expenses will incur while am taking this program?
- Steel-toed work boots - $80 - $150
- Safety glasses - $6 - $20
- Forklift Operator's certification - $102.50
- Air Brake driver's license endorsement - (optional) Additional Fee $200
- Class One Driver' license endorsement - approximately $5075 (optional)
(All fees are subject to change without prior notice.)
Does this program qualify for financial assistance?
Yes. You can apply for the government student loan and grant program. You may also qualify for institutional scholarships and bursaries.
Does this program prepare me for certification with any other agencies?
Successful completion of this program gives you certification in Heavy Mechanical Trades. You may also start as an apprentice with level one training in the following trades, Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, Truck and Trailer Transport Mechanic, Diesel Engine Mechanic, Transport Trailer Technician.
Does this program ladder into any other University or College programs?
If you start an apprenticeship, you will attend a BC college or university to complete technical training each year during a four-year apprenticeship for Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, Truck and Transport Mechanic. The other mechanical trades vary in length of apprenticeship and technical training.
What is the average class size?
The average class size is eighteen.
What is a typical weekly schedule?
Four days per week; 6.25 hours per day.
How many hours of class time are there per week if I take full-time studies?
You will spend approximately two hours per day in class, and approximately 4.25 hours per day in the shop.
How much homework should I expect if I am a full-time student?
One - two hours per night.
Can I access this program on a part-time basis?
No.
Are there courses available in the evening?
No.
What types of jobs will I be qualified for after I graduate?
You will be qualified to start an apprenticeship in Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, Truck and Transport Mechanic, Diesel Engine Mechanic, Transport Trailer Technician, Marine Mechanic. Heavy Duty Technicians generally work on heavy off-road equipment, but often find themselves repairing many types of equipment and vehicles. Truck and Transport Mechanics generally work on highway trucks and buses. Marine mechanics on small ships and boats, Diesel Engine Mechanics specailize in engine repairs and rebuilding.
Is further training necessary in order for me to enter the job market?
No, Vancouver Island University graduates are job ready.
Will I have to travel in order to find employment in this field? If so, where would this be?
Heavy Duty Equipment Technicians positions are found all over Vancouver Island and the BC Mainland; however, many of the higher paid entry-level job openings are in remote locations. Job openings for Truck and Transport Mechanics are generally found in large and small cities, especially transport centers such as Vancouver, Kamloops, Fort St. John, Victoria and Nanaimo. Marine Mechanics' job positions are found in the major marine centers along the coast. Diesel Mechanics positions are generally found in the major cities.
How many people usually apply for the program?
Traditionally, more people than the program can accept.
How many students are admitted into the program each intake?
Three classes of eighteen students per class.
How are students usually selected for the program?
Applications are accepted between October 3 and March 31. Assessment test results and all documentation must be submitted by April 15. The best applicants from this initial application process are chosen to be the students for the September intake. Later applications may be accepted if space is available and requirements are met.
Should I apply for the program if I do not have all the prerequisites?
If you plan on upgrading to meet the prerequisites before the intake date, you should apply.
If I don' t get accepted into the program this year, can I apply again next year?
If the reason you did not get accepted is because there were too many people ahead of you must apply again next year. If you were not accepted because you did not meet the prerequisites, make plans to upgrade before you re-apply.
What can I do to increase my chances of getting into this program?
If you meet the prerequisites, apply as soon as applications are being accepted in the Fall, complete the assessment test and a detailed personal profile outlining why you would be a good fit for the program.