British Columbia Institute of Technology
Burnaby, Canada
British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT)
Burnaby, Canada
Founded
1964
Institution Type
Public Polytechnic
Total Students
48,000+
Programs Offered
300+
Discover BCIT: Overview & History
Discover BCIT: Overview & History
The British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) is a public polytechnic institution located in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada. Founded in 1964, BCIT has grown into one of Canada's largest post-secondary institutions, offering over 300 programs and 1,000 part-time courses across six schools to nearly 50,000 students annually.
BCIT delivers practical, flexible, applied education with instructors who bring direct, hands-on industry experience to the classroom. The institute offers credentials ranging from certificates and diplomas to bachelor's and master's degrees in fields such as engineering, computing, health sciences, business, trades, and applied natural sciences.
With six campuses across Metro Vancouver — including the main Burnaby Campus, the Aerospace Technology Campus in Richmond, the Marine Campus in North Vancouver, and the Downtown Campus in Vancouver — BCIT serves a diverse community of learners. The institute's strong industry partnerships and work-integrated learning model have produced over 210,000 alumni who contribute to economies across Canada and around the world.
Key Milestones
- 1964: BCIT opened its Burnaby campus with an initial enrollment of 498 students, offering programs in engineering, business, and health.
- 1986: The Pacific Vocational Institute (PVI) merged with BCIT, expanding the institute's role as the flagship of trades and technological training in British Columbia.
- 2004: Student enrollment grew to more than 48,000 and BCIT's polytechnic status was officially enshrined in provincial legislation.
- 2007: BCIT opened a new 300,000-square-foot Aerospace Technology Campus near Vancouver International Airport for its aviation and aerospace programs.
Academic Structure & Schools
Academic Structure & Schools
BCIT is organized into six schools, each offering specialized programs designed in close consultation with industry partners. The curriculum emphasizes applied learning, ensuring graduates are career-ready from day one.
School of Business + Media
Offers programs in business administration, marketing, accounting, financial planning, broadcast and media communications, and digital arts, preparing students for dynamic careers in commerce and creative industries.
- Business Administration Diploma
- Marketing Management Diploma
- Broadcast and Media Communications Diploma
School of Computing & Academic Studies
Provides programs in computer systems technology, software development, cybersecurity, data analytics, and academic studies including applied mathematics and liberal studies.
- Computer Systems Technology Diploma
- Applied Computer Science Bachelor's Degree
- Cybersecurity Certificate
School of Construction & the Environment
Delivers applied education in building technology, architectural science, civil engineering, environmental engineering, and geomatics, emphasizing sustainable design and construction practices.
- Architectural and Building Engineering Technology Diploma
- Civil Engineering Technology Diploma
- Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering
School of Energy
Focuses on programs related to electrical and computer engineering, mechanical engineering, power and process engineering, and renewable energy technologies.
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology Diploma
- Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering
- Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering
School of Health Sciences
Offers programs in nursing, biomedical engineering technology, diagnostic medical sonography, occupational health and safety, and other health-related disciplines with hands-on clinical training.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Biomedical Engineering Technology Diploma
- Occupational Health and Safety Certificate
School of Transportation
Provides training in automotive service technology, aircraft maintenance engineering, marine engineering, and commercial pilot programs across BCIT's specialized campuses.
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Technology Diploma
- Automotive Service Technician Foundation Certificate
- Marine Engineering Technology Diploma
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- Secondary School DiplomaCompletion of Grade 12 or equivalent with program-specific prerequisite courses
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) or TOEFL iBT 86
- Application FeeCAD 154 for international students (non-refundable)
- Program PrerequisitesVaries by program; may include Math, Physics, English, or Biology
- Supporting DocumentsOfficial transcripts, valid passport, and proof of immigration status
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeMinimum 70% (GPA 2.8/4.0) in the last 60 credits of a 4-year bachelor's degree
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) or TOEFL iBT 86; some programs may require higher
- Application FeeCAD 154 for international students (non-refundable)
- Work ExperienceSome graduate programs require relevant professional experience
- Supporting DocumentsTranscripts, resume, statement of purpose, and references as required by program
Primary deadline for the majority of full-time technology programs starting in January. Apply early as many programs fill before the deadline.
Part-time technology programs, trades and technical studies, and apprenticeship training programs accept applications on a rolling basis year-round.
Select programs offer spring or summer start dates. Check the specific program page on the BCIT website for exact deadlines.
Graduate program deadlines vary by department. Contact the relevant school or visit the BCIT admissions page for current dates.
Tuition & Scholarships
Tuition & Scholarships
BCIT's tuition is structured on a per-term basis rather than per-credit, and fees vary by program and student residency status. International students should use the BCIT Tuition Estimator tool for the most accurate figures for their chosen program.
| Fee Category | Domestic (per year est.) | International (per year est.) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (Diploma Programs) | CAD 7,200 - 15,800 | CAD 18,900 - 22,500 |
| Tuition (Degree Programs) | CAD 8,000 - 16,000 | CAD 19,500 - 22,500 |
| Books & Supplies | CAD 1,000 - 2,000 | CAD 1,000 - 2,000 |
| Health Insurance & Ancillary Fees | CAD 500 - 800 | CAD 800 - 1,200 |
| Total | CAD 8,700 - 18,600 | CAD 20,700 - 25,700 |
BCIT Entrance Scholarships
Awarded to students who achieved the highest average in the first year of their program while maintaining a full course load. No separate application is required; recipients are notified in the fall of their second year.
- Eligibility: Full-time students with top academic standing in first year
- Application: Automatic — no separate application needed
- Course Load: Minimum 60% course load (40% for students with approved disability status)
Irving K. Barber Scholarships
External scholarships available to BCIT students pursuing technical and applied programs in British Columbia. These awards support students demonstrating financial need and academic merit.
- Eligibility: BC residents enrolled in eligible BCIT programs
- Value: Contact BCIT Financial Aid for current award amounts
- Application: Through BCIT's Student Financial Aid and Awards Office
Campus & Facilities
Campus & Facilities
BCIT operates six campuses across Metro Vancouver, with the main Burnaby Campus serving as the primary hub for hundreds of specialized learning spaces. The campuses feature state-of-the-art labs, simulators, broadcast studios, green roofs, and industry-standard training equipment.
The main campus spans 37 hectares and houses classrooms, labs, shops, simulators, and specialized learning spaces across four quadrants.
A 285,000-square-foot facility near Vancouver International Airport offering aircraft maintenance engineering, commercial pilot training, and aviation programs.
Located in the heart of Vancouver's tech corridor, this campus features the TEC Hub — an innovative IT learning space for business and digital media programs.
Housing & Dining
On-Campus Housing
BCIT's Burnaby Campus offers on-campus student housing located adjacent to the sports field, providing a convenient and community-oriented living experience.
- Single and shared room options available
- Apply through the BCIT Housing Portal
- Close proximity to campus facilities and transit
Dining & Food Services
The Burnaby Campus features a wide range of food services including cafeterias, coffee shops, and quick-service outlets to accommodate diverse dietary needs.
- Multiple dining options across campus quadrants
- On-campus bookstore with supplies and snacks
- Nearby restaurants and shopping in the Burnaby area
Student Life at BCIT
Student Life at BCIT
BCIT offers a vibrant student life program that extends well beyond the classroom. The BCIT Student Association (BCITSA) is a student-led society dedicated to social and academic support and advocacy, organizing events, clubs, and services across all campuses.
Location & City: Burnaby, British Columbia
Location & City: Burnaby, British Columbia
Living in Burnaby
Burnaby is a vibrant city in Metro Vancouver, British Columbia, offering an excellent quality of life with diverse dining, shopping, and cultural experiences. The city is well-connected by SkyTrain rapid transit, making it easy to reach downtown Vancouver, Richmond, and other Metro Vancouver destinations within minutes.
Proximity to Vancouver
Burnaby is just minutes from downtown Vancouver via SkyTrain, providing access to a thriving tech corridor, cultural attractions, and a dynamic job market.
Natural Beauty
The city is home to Deer Lake, Burnaby Lake, and Burnaby Mountain, offering hiking trails, parks, and outdoor recreation surrounded by stunning mountain and ocean scenery.
Multicultural Community
Burnaby is one of Canada's most ethnically diverse cities, with a rich multicultural food scene, festivals, and a welcoming environment for international students.
Cost of Living
Living expenses in Burnaby range from approximately CAD 1,500 to 2,000 per month, covering housing, food, transportation, and personal expenses. On-campus housing at BCIT offers a more affordable option.
Career Outcomes & Alumni
Career Outcomes & Alumni
Top Employers Hiring BCIT Graduates
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
BCIT's International Student Centre provides dedicated support including immigration advising, orientation programs, cultural events, and academic guidance to help international students adjust to life in Canada.
BCIT is a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. International students must obtain a valid Canadian study permit before beginning their studies. The International Student Centre can assist with permit-related questions.
Graduates of eligible BCIT programs may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
As a polytechnic institution focused on applied education, BCIT is not traditionally ranked alongside research-intensive universities. However, it has appeared in several global ranking systems and is widely recognized for its career-focused outcomes and industry relevance in Canada.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering Technology | Nationally recognized for accredited Bachelor of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering programs. | Contact BCIT for current data |
| Computing & IT | Strong reputation for applied computer science, cybersecurity, and software development programs. | Contact BCIT for current data |
| Health Sciences | Highly regarded for nursing, biomedical engineering technology, and occupational health programs. | Contact BCIT for current data |
| Trades & Apprenticeship | Recognized as British Columbia's flagship institution for trades and technological training since 1986. | Contact BCIT for current data |
Features
BCIT is one of Canada’s leading polytechnic institutions, emphasizing hands-on, practical education that directly prepares students for employment. It offers programs in engineering, health sciences, business, computing, and trades, and maintains close partnerships with industry to ensure graduates are job-ready.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - June
Location
3700 Willingdon Avenue, Burnaby, British Columbia V5G 3H2, Canada
Map not found.
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
