Dispersed Teacher Education Program

The Dispersed Teacher Education program is designed for individuals working in K-12 schools in rural or remote communities who wish to gain teaching certification. This part-time program allows students to study without relocating, with most courses delivered online and two short residencies.

Program Outline

The program is divided into three years, with a combination of online and in-person courses. The program outline includes:

• Year 1:
  • August (in-person classes): EDTE 300, EDTE 330, VIU Learn & Technology Set Up
  • September to December (synchronous online class): EDTE 311
  • January to March (synchronous online classes): EDTE 301, EDTE 519
  • March (in-person classes): EDTE 400a, EDTE 429
  • April to June (synchronous online class): EDTE 400b
  • April to May (practicum): EDFE 411
• Year 2:
  • August (in-person classes): EDTE 427, EDTE 417
  • September to December (synchronous online class): EDTE 520
  • January to March (synchronous online classes): EDTE 419, EDTE 431
  • March (in-person classes): EDTE 530, EDTE 425
  • April to June (synchronous online class): EDTE 401
  • May to June (practicum): EDFE 421
• Year 3:
  • August (in-person classes): EDTE 533, EDTE 531
  • September to March (synchronous online class): EDTE 500
  • January to March (synchronous online class): EDTE 501a
  • March (in-person classes): EDTE 501b, EDTE 532
  • April to June (practicum): EDFE 521

Admission Information

To be admitted to the Dispersed Teacher Education program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Completion of a minimum of 66 post-secondary credits acceptable in content to the VIU Faculty of Education
• Completion of the Casper CSP-10209 test
• Completion of an Applicant Profile within the VIU Student Record
• Two letters of support and/or recommendation from a direct supervisor and/or community leaders
• Admission rankings are determined by a combination of GPA on relevant credits, Casper test results, and two letters of support/recommendation

Notes on Program Progression

Students must demonstrate appropriate professional behavior and complete all program coursework with a minimum grade of C+ or 'CR' in each course. Practicum components must be completed satisfactorily, and students may only attempt a practicum a maximum of two times.

Notes on Professional Certification

Upon successful graduation from the program, graduates must apply to the BC Ministry of Education and Child Care Teacher Regulation Branch for professional certification. Graduates are also encouraged to apply to the Teacher Qualification Service to establish qualifications for salary purposes in BC public schools.

Access Initiative

Vancouver Island University is committed to the recruitment, retention, and graduation of Indigenous students. The Faculty of Education's Access Initiative is designed to give access to individuals who are members of groups in our society who have historically been under-represented in the teaching profession in BC.

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.