Students who are looking to combine city life with their studies will feel at home at Vancouver Community College (VCC). The school’s two main campuses—Downtown and Broadway—are right in the heart of Vancouver, while a third campus in Delta houses the heavy mechanical trades facility. VCC offers more than 140 programs, including certificates, diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, trades and apprenticeship training, academic upgrading and continuing education. VCC has 12,694 students and has expressed a commitment to diversity, accessibility and Indigenous reconciliation. 

The school enjoys longstanding connections with local employers and community organizations. VCC’s trades students are top performers in provincial, national and international skills competitions, and its culinary graduates have competed on shows like  Top Chef Canada and Chopped.

At both Vancouver campuses, students hone their skills while offering discounted services to the community. Hairstyling students run a salon and spa alongside their classmates in the aesthetics program. Dental-assisting students oversee a low-cost dental clinic, and culinary students cook gourmet cuisine at on-campus restaurants.

The school’s annual gala showcases fashion arts, auto restoration and live music by students, faculty and alumni. Net proceeds from the event go toward student scholarships and bursaries.