North Island College

About North Island College

Campus: Facilities, Residence and Location

NIC has multiple campuses, with its largest in Courtenay (Comox Valley), and additional campuses in Campbell River, Port Alberni, and the Mount Waddington region. Each campus is equipped with modern classrooms, labs, and workshops tailored to the programs offered in that location. The facilities support hands-on learning in areas like health care, business, trades, and technology, giving students access to the tools and environments they will encounter in their careers.

Although North Island College does not currently offer on-campus residences, it works closely with the community to connect students to housing opportunities nearby. Its campuses are located in safe, welcoming communities surrounded by the natural beauty of Vancouver Island, including mountains, forests, and the Pacific Ocean. This setting offers students not only academic growth but also the chance to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and kayaking.
The newest building in Comox Valley is Tyee Hall, which contains the college bookstore, cafeteria, classrooms and computer labs. Campbell River campus is subdivided into two: The Tebo Road Vocational Centre and the South Dogwood Street Campus. South Dogwood is uniquely shared with the Timberline Secondary School. Port Alberni campus is one main building with a residence building located inside it. Other facilities of the campus include a state of the art trades and nursing facilities, a full service gourmet bistro, only online astronomy lab, one out of the only four Anagama kilns in existence, and the only commercial screen press for student learning.

Student Services and Student Life

NIC provides a range of student services to support academic success and personal well-being. These include academic advising, tutoring, Indigenous student support, and career planning resources. The college also offers international student advising, helping students adjust to life in Canada and succeed in their studies.

Student life at NIC is enriched by cultural, recreational, and social opportunities. Clubs, events, and workshops bring students together and foster community connections. With a strong focus on inclusivity and diversity, NIC creates a welcoming atmosphere where students from different backgrounds can thrive academically and socially.

Students who are registered in the College are automatically members of the Student Union. The association is involved with local, provincial, and national student movement campaigns to lobby for the students’ rights. They are also involved in the extracurricular activities of the students, and have been holding successful welcome events and barbecues at the Comox Valley, Port Alberni, and Campbell River campuses.

Academic Programs

Off-Campus Living

Since North Island College does not offer on-campus housing, many students live off-campus in shared accommodations, rental apartments, or homestays. The surrounding communities are known for being student-friendly, with a range of affordable living options compared to larger urban centers. Off-campus living also allows students to immerse themselves in the local culture, build connections with community members, and enjoy the lifestyle that Vancouver Island offers.

Courtenay Information

Courtenay is a city on the east coast of Vancouver Island, in the province of British Columbia, Canada. It is the largest city in the area commonly known as the Comox Valley. In the Comox Valley it really is possible to enjoy the best of all seasons - you can be knee-deep in a winter wonderland, then within half an hour be dusting the snow off your boots on a lush green golf course, or paddling a kayak through sparkling blue waters.

The Comox Valley is also a thriving centre for arts and culture. Four major museums, live theatre, a dynamic music scene, an active artist community and year round cultural festivals and events are just a few of the many attractions the Comox Valley has to offer. With Its stunning views and vibrant combination of outdoor adventures and cultural activities, it is no surprise that the Comox Valley is one of BC's top year-round destinations.