Capilano University

Founded 1968 | North Vancouver, BC

With class sizes averaging around 25, students at Capilano University benefit from individualized attention from their instructors. Many faculty members continue to work in their fields and can offer students access to up-to-date, practical instruction and industry connections.

Capilano’s main campus is located at the foot of the North Shore Mountains, about 20 minutes from downtown Vancouver. CapU Lonsdale, located on North Van’s waterfront, offers continuing education classes, while a regional campus in Sechelt serves the Squamish-Whistler area. Degree programs tend to be career-oriented in areas such as early childhood care and education, kinesiology, music therapy, motion picture arts and legal studies, but broader programs, such as the bachelor of business administration and bachelor of arts in liberal studies, are also available. Capilano has some post-baccalaureate diplomas and a wide range of certificate and diploma offerings, including a diploma program in costuming for stage and screen.

Recently, Capilano developed the Indigenous Digital Accelerator to provide resources such as technical advice and mentoring to help Indigenous students launch their own businesses, as well as to help existing Indigenous entrepreneurs to expand. Meanwhile, plans are underway for a new Centre for Childhood Studies, which will house classrooms and a childcare centre.

“From the first moment our new students engage in learning at CapU, they feel supported and know their education truly matters,” says president Paul Dangerfield. “We are unified in providing exceptional experiences for students and ensuring the well-being of everyone in our campus community.”

Standout Programs

• Kinesiology: In either a four-year degree or two-year diploma, students prepare for careers promoting healthy individuals and communities.

• Early Childhood Care and Education: This bachelor program delivers theory, research and practice; it includes a focus on leadership and advocacy.

• Jazz Studies: Students learn liberal arts while developing skills in performance, composition and music education.

Tuition (includes compulsory ancillary fees)

$5,785

Minimum Entering Grades

Arts, Science: 63-66% · Commerce, Engineering: high school diploma with select course minimums

Student Body

Undergraduates: Full-time: 6,244 · Part-time: 2,061

International Students: First-year: 38%

Graduate: 41% Male-Female Ratio: 41 to 59

Housing Facts

Residence Spaces: 300 (first come, first served)

Residence Costs: Double room with meals: $4,581

Single room with meals: $5,339

Cool Courses

• Murder and Mayhem: Students examine how violence has historically shaped political, social, intellectual, economic and religious beliefs and goals.

• Minds, Brains and Machines: This philosophy course explores the relationship between the mind and the body.

Student Life on Campus

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