At VIU, research and teaching are complementary activities as both contribute to the ultimate goal of the institution – high quality learning experiences.

The purpose of Vancouver Island University is to be a leader in providing high quality learning and support the well-being of the people of Vancouver Island and coastal British Columbia by promoting a high quality of life for their communities through commitment to student success, community engagement and associated scholarship.

Every day, faculty and students at Vancouver Island University undertake boundary spanning research and creative activity. Together, and with community partners, they ask thought provoking questions and challenge conventional ideas. They investigate, innovate and create new knowledge and works that go on to change individual learning journeys, disciplinary knowledge, and community/industry practices. They experiment with new models and techniques forging new ground and innovative practices. And regardless of their program or disciplinary background, they constantly strive to pursue new knowledge, find solutions to complex problems, and enhance the world we all inhabit.