Notable programs
BSc Ocean Sciences (School of Earth and Ocean Sciences)
Among the strongest ocean sciences programs in Canada, with direct Pacific Ocean research access through Ocean Networks Canada (the cabled seafloor observatory operated by UVic providing real-time data from Pacific seafloor) and the Pacific Geoscience Centre proximity. Strong placement into DFO Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Environment Canada Pacific operations, marine consulting, and ocean sciences PhD programs. Direct undergraduate research access on research vessels and at the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre on Vancouver Island's west coast.
JD/JID Joint Common Law and Indigenous Legal Orders Degree (Faculty of Law)
Launched in 2018 as the first of its kind globally — a dual degree that integrates Canadian common law with Indigenous legal orders. Reflects substantive curricular integration rather than token positioning, with structural collaboration with Indigenous communities on Vancouver Island and across BC. Strong placement into Indigenous governance, Indigenous-focused legal practice, federal Indigenous Services Canada, and reconciliation roles across Canada and internationally.
BBA Peter B. Gustavson School of Business
Triple Crown accredited (AACSB + EQUIS + AMBA), placing it in the top 1 percent of business schools globally on accreditation grounds. Strong programs in sustainability, international business, entrepreneurship, and service management. Mandatory co-op component with placement into BC business, BC sustainability-focused organizations, and BC corporate finance. Cohort sizes are small (approximately 130 BBA admits per year), allowing close faculty engagement.
BA Indigenous Studies (Faculty of Humanities)
Among the strongest Indigenous Studies undergraduate programs in Canada, reflecting UVic's institutional commitment to Indigenous reconciliation. Curriculum integrates Indigenous governance, languages, knowledge systems, and contemporary politics, with structural collaboration with Indigenous communities on Vancouver Island. Placement into Indigenous governance roles, federal Indigenous Services Canada, Indigenous-focused academic research, and reconciliation work across Canada.
BSc Computer Science (Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science)
Solid mid-tier Canadian CS program with strong co-op participation (one of the largest co-op programs in North America with 4,000+ annual placements). Placement into Microsoft Vancouver, Amazon Vancouver, Hootsuite, Telus, BC Hydro, federal government IT, and various BC startups. Not Waterloo-tier in selectivity or brand, but respectable mid-tier with strong applied focus.