Physical health
We're here to support your wellbeing so you can thrive in your university experience. Our physicians, nurses, specialists, practitioner partners and Student Welcome Team work collaboratively to provide students with a range of health services.
We can be your primary point of health care while registered at university, especially if you do not have a family doctor in Victoria.
We serve all UVic students who are currently registered in credited courses. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, please call us at 250-721-8563 or email us.
Mental health
We’re here to help with your mental health questions and concerns. These can be anything from anxiety, depression and mood problems, eating disorders, substance use issues or other concerns.
Our practitioners have training in mental health and clinical care for students. We offer mental health assessments, consultation/coaching, treatment planning and care coordination for students who need support for their mental wellbeing.
We take a collaborative approach to mental health support; our team includes counsellors, doctors, nurses and spiritual care providers.
Sexual health
We offer sexual health services and information to people of all genders, identities, orientations and abilities.
Sexual health visit
A sexual health visit may include:
- health history review
- breast/chest exam
- pelvic exam
- pap smear
- testicular and/or prostate exam
- vaccinations such as HPV, HEP A and HEP B
- birth control information
- STI testing, treatment and prevention information
- PrEP – pre-exposure prophylaxis for those at elevated risk of HIV exposure
- healthy relationships counselling
- any other concerns or questions you might have
If you have a preference for the gender of your practitioner, please let the Student Welcome Team know. We will accommodate your preference as best as possible.
Contraception/birth control
We offer consultation on a full range of birth control options. We can provide trial samples of many birth control products and/or prescriptions.
- IUDs: we offer IUD education, prescriptions and insertion (both hormonal and copper IUDs).
- Emergency contraception (EC): EC is available in the clinic. It should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. Talk to a nurse about your best options and timing for emergency contraception.
- Barrier methods: we provide a range of free condoms. We also offer information about barrier methods for preventing STIs and as a form of birth control.
Pregnancy testing & counselling
We offer on-site pregnancy testing and counselling. Our practitioners can discuss pregnancy, conception and contraception options, resources and support.
The SWC does not offer maternity care. We refer pregnant students to OB-GYNs or midwives as needed.
Community resources
Public health & immunization
UVic Health offers immunization reviews where you can make sure you are up to date with your immunity.
Not sure if you are up to date or how to find your records? Check out tips for locating immunization records or make an appointment to speak with a nurse.
For information about immunization preventable diseases and immunizations, go to Immunize BC.
Vaccines
The vaccines we offer include (subject to availability):
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- HPV (Gardasil 9)
- Influenza (flu)
- Meningitis (Meningococcal C, quad and B)
- Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)
- Pneumococcal (pneumonia)
- Polio
- Td, TDaP (tetanus/diphtheria and tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis)
- Typhoid
- Chicken pox (Varicella)
Some vaccines are free (depending on eligibility) and some have a cost. Talk to the Student Welcome Team or a nurse to find the costs for any vaccines you need.
Flu immunization clinics
UVic Health offers flu clinics every flu season. Check back in the Fall to find out details for 2021.
Travel vaccinations
We do not supply travel vaccines. We encourage students to access a specialized travel clinic.
Travel vaccination is important to help reduce and manage your risk of illness during your journey. Consultations should take place eight weeks before departure and include a discussion about immunizations, preventative medications and specific health information.
When seeking travel immunizations:
- get your immunization records and bring them to the consultation
- confirm your travel itinerary and bring it with you
- check Public Health Agency of Canada for country-specific travel information
Victoria travel clinics
Nurse Liaison for Indigenous students
This program aims to provide a culturally safe and welcoming place for Indigenous students. The nurse liaison will support you in accessing the health care you are looking for. This program is offered online during COVID-19.
Stephanie Benedik is the SWC Nurse Liaison for Indigenous Students. She offers virtual drop-in or pre-booked appointments for Indigenous students.
Contact Stephanie or the coordinator of Indigenous student support to book an appointment or if you have any questions or concerns.
Transgender & gender diverse care
We strive to be inclusive and welcoming to students of all genders. All SWC staff welcome questions about gender during appointments.
We offer a full range of health care including gender-affirming medical care, referrals to specialists and inclusive sexual health care.
Our intake form invites you to share your gender identity if you are comfortable. Our forms also request that you indicate your name and pronouns for us to use in our interactions with you. Sharing this information is always your choice and will remain confidential.
International students
The Student Wellness Centre can be your primary point of health care while you are a UVic student. It’s important to make sure that you have health insurance that covers the period of time that you will be in Canada.
SWC health care is private and confidential. Translation services are available upon request; please request translation when making your appointment if required.