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More than a classroom a community

NIC campus life is about connection, growth and making the most of your experience—inside and outside the classroom.

Students eating together outside at a campus event

The student experience at NIC offers many opportunities to engage with community, on and off campus.

Whether you need student support, a place to connect with friends, or ways to get involved, our campuses are welcoming communities built to help you thrive.

With locations in Comox Valley, Campbell River, Port Alberni, and Port Hardy (Mix̱alakwila), you’ll be part of vibrant communities with stunning coastal landscapes and endless opportunities to explore.

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Student life and events

Community lunches, culture sharing, wellness workshops, networking events and more — there’s always something happening on-campus. Whether you want to join a research project, build leadership skills or share a meal with like-minded students, you’ll find your place here.

Students attending the NISU barbecue

Indigenous connections

NIC is grateful to learn and work on the traditional territories of the Nuu-chah-nulth, Kwakwaka’wakw and Coast Salish Peoples. The Office of Indigenous Education offers support, cultural events and a welcoming space for Indigenous students.  

You'll find:  

  • cultural events and Indigenous-led workshops
  • support services and Elders in Residence  
  • gathering spaces for Indigenous students 
Students of NIC Kwak'wala course

Outdoor adventure and island living

Studying on Vancouver Island means adventure is always outside your door. Hit the trails, paddle the coastline, snowboard Mount Washington or take a beach break — here, the outdoors is part of your classroom.

When you’re not studying, you can:  

  • hike, bike, or ski on nearby trails and mountains  
  • surf, kayak, or paddleboard along the coastline
  • tour local communities full of art, music and culture 
Map of Vancouver Island showing First Nations Territories and campus locations

Learning commons at the Campbell River campus

Food and study spots

Each campus has great spots to grab a coffee, study or relax with friends. Whether you need a quiet space to focus or a lively place to connect, you'll find a place to recharge or get things done.

Food services
Event at Tyee Student Lounge - Comox Valley campus

Health and wellness

Your well-being matters. We provide mental health support, yoga, wellness workshops and more. This means you can stay balanced and ready for whatever comes next.

Let's go
rendering of the new student housing building at the comox valley campus

Student housing

Our new student housing building at the Comox Valley campus features a unique mix of single-occupant and shared housing units – including dedicated on-campus family housing units.

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Book a campus tour

Get an exclusive inside look at classrooms, labs, studios, shops and campus amenities.