Management Skills for Supervisors Program

The Management Skills for Supervisors program is a part-time credit certificate program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in management, supervisory, and leadership roles.

Program Overview

This program is ideal for those who want to transition into leadership and supervisory roles or refine their ability to manage and motivate individuals and groups. The program consists of three courses: Interpersonal Skills, Team Building Skills, and Administrative Skills.

Course Descriptions

• Interpersonal Skills (2 credits)
  • This course focuses on interpersonal and communication skills, including active listening, coaching, conflict and anger management, assertiveness, and giving and receiving feedback.
  • Course code: MGMT 145
  • Course dates: January 8-9 and January 22-23, 2027
  • Delivery: In-person, 4 sessions, Fridays, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
• Team Building Skills (2 credits)
  • This course introduces key concepts to build and maintain effective teams, including team success factors, characteristics of high-performance teams, and team decision-making and problem-solving.
  • Course code: MGMT 146
  • Course dates: February 5-6 and February 19-20, 2027
  • Delivery: In-person, 4 sessions, Fridays and Saturdays, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
• Administrative Skills (2 credits)
  • This course provides foundational knowledge and skill-building exercises to better understand and manage new employee orientation, delegation skills, interview and selection, time and stress management, and performance management.
  • Course code: MGMT 147
  • Course dates: March 5-6 and March 19-20, 2027
  • Delivery: In-person, 4 sessions, 2 Fridays and 2 Saturdays, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

Career Opportunities

Supervisors, managers, and leaders are expected to do more with less in increasingly complex and competitive work environments. This program helps individuals build skills to take on management roles with confidence and refine their ability to manage and motivate individuals and groups.

Eligibility

Application Process

To apply for the program, fill out an Application for Admission form and deliver or mail it to any VIU campus, or apply online. After applying, you will be contacted about individual course registration.

Fees

The program coordinator can help calculate the total fees for this program. Student union fees and activity fees will also be applied. Note that fees are subject to change annually, and this program is not eligible for student loans.

Testimonials

The program has received positive feedback from past participants, who have found it to be a valuable set of courses that provide practical skills and tools to implement immediately into their professional workplace.

Vancouver Island University

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Overview:

Vancouver Island University (VIU) is a public university located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, humanities, social sciences, business, education, health, science, technology, and trades. VIU is known for its commitment to student success, providing a supportive learning environment and a variety of services to help students thrive.

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Services Offered:

VIU offers a comprehensive range of services to support students, including:

Academic Advising:

Personalized guidance on program selection, course planning, and academic progress.

Financial Aid and Awards:

Scholarships, bursaries, loans, and other financial assistance options.

Career Services:

Career counseling, job search assistance, and internship opportunities.

Library:

Extensive collection of books, journals, databases, and online resources.

Health and Wellness Services:

Counseling, health promotion, and fitness programs.

Student Housing:

On-campus residence options for students seeking a convenient and supportive living environment.

Campus Recreation:

Opportunities for physical activity, sports, and recreational activities.

Campus Store:

Supplies, textbooks, and VIU merchandise.

Food Services:

Dining options on campus, including cafes, restaurants, and vending machines.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

VIU fosters a vibrant and inclusive campus community, offering students a variety of opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities, connect with peers, and develop their personal and professional skills. Students can participate in:

Student Clubs and Organizations:

A wide range of clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests.

Campus Events:

Social gatherings, workshops, performances, and guest speaker events.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Opportunities to give back to the community and gain valuable experience.

Athletics:

Participation in varsity sports and recreational leagues.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Location:

Situated on beautiful Vancouver Island, offering access to stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Small Class Sizes:

Personalized attention from faculty and a more intimate learning environment.

Supportive Community:

A welcoming and inclusive campus community that fosters a sense of belonging.

Practical Experience:

Emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world applications.

Career-Focused Programs:

Programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in their chosen fields.

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Academic Programs:

VIU offers a diverse range of academic programs, including:

Bachelor's Degrees:

In various disciplines, including arts, business, education, health, science, and technology.

Master's Degrees:

In areas such as business administration, education, and geographic information systems.

Diplomas and Certificates:

In a wide range of fields, including trades, technology, and professional development.

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Other:

VIU has three campuses located in Nanaimo, Cowichan, and Powell River, providing students with a variety of campus environments to choose from. The university also has a strong commitment to Indigenous education and offers a variety of programs and services specifically designed for Indigenous students.