VIU proposes academic program changes, plans structural reorganization

Vancouver Island University has proposed a series of changes to its structure and programs to address financial pressures and enrolment declines. VIU plans to restructure academic leadership by reducing the number of deans from eight to four by 2026, while retaining associate deans and faculty staff. The proposals would also phase out over a dozen graduate and undergraduate offerings beginning in Fall 2025 or 2026 and suspend intakes for six more. VIU stated that current students will be able to complete their studies. A final decision from the Board of Governors is expected on June 3.