Student stories
Credit for prior learning
"I chose UVic because I wanted to further my education but required the flexibility that distance education affords me. I have a busy family life, work full time and have several community commitments that I enjoy - so distance education made sense for me. I also chose UVic because they gave me credit for my prior learning - I didn't feel like I had to start at ground zero again. This is important to me as a mature student - I like being recognized for what I've already accomplished in my life." – Kari Penner, Child and Youth Care
Career advancement without leaving the workforce
"The School of Public Administration's DLGM distance learning program has opened up a new door of opportunity. As a widowed mother of 4 pre-teen sons, it means that I can continue my education without leaving the workforce, and schedule learning sessions at my convenience. I have a Finance background, but I lacked the legislative law, policy and management background needed to advance my career in the public sector. My employer supports my educational goals because of my proven work abilities, and has promoted me as a result of course completions and new skills." – Elma Hamming, Diploma in Local Government Management, School of Public Administration
A flexible master's program
"While the UVic Master’s program was always on my radar, I wasn’t sure it was the right program for me since I had already completed the UVic undergraduate degree and was quite knowledgeable in the area of health informatics. After further review, though, I saw that a lot of the courses focused on research and evaluation, most of which were not available to me as an undergraduate student. While there were other programs in Canada that had a strong focus on research and evaluation, the flexibility of UVic’s Distributed Master’s program which allowed me to complete my Master’s without putting my career on hold solidified my decision." - Sherman Quan, School of Health Information Science
Giving back to community
Cinamon Holland chose UVic’s BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) program because she wants to give back to her community of Smithers, BC. Cinamon chose the online (distance) education program because she needs the strength and support of her community to help her reach her goal. The ability to achieve her dream and stay in her community with her family and the people most important to her means the world to Cinamon. "Staying in my community while working on my social work degree is important to me because this is where I get my strength". – Cinamon Holland, School of Social Work
An affordable and flexible program
"I have had a wonderful experience during my time as a distance student at UVic. This program is affordable and flexible. I have been able to balance my family and work life while doing courses. I have gained so many new ways to look at issues. The program’s flexibility, taking into account my experience, has made a wonderful learning environment. Staff has been accessible, helpful, and supportive." - Claire Beck, Nursing
