Who We Are

Applications for Fall 2026, Spring 2026, and Summer 2026 are now open!
How to Apply?

Information and instructions for domestic and international student applicants to connect with Advisors are available HERE on our website.

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Nestled in the North Shore mountains and a mere 20 minutes from all that downtown Vancouver has to offer, Capilano University is a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts and urbanites alike. Founded in 1968, the University is best known for its programs in Fine and Applied Arts, Legal Studies, Kinesiology, Tourism Management, Early Childhood Education, and many more. CapU’s Business, Music Therapy, and Psychology programs are also highly regarded. Capilano University offers 100+ programs, including 18 bachelor’s degrees as well as post-baccalaureate and undergraduate diplomas and certificates. In 2024, the University opened its newest location in Squamish. In 2019, the University opened a campus in Lonsdale, North Vancouver’s famous Shipyards district. The University provides student residences near its North shore campus, Squamish campus and also serves the Sunshine Coast and the Sea-to-Sky corridor.

Alumni and instructors from Capilano University have been recognized for their work across the entertainment industry. Jason Karman, a faculty member in the Motion Picture Arts (MoPA) program and an alumnus of CapU, had his feature film “Golden Delicious” screened at festivals across Canada, including the 2023 Vancouver International Film Festival. The film stars Cardi Wong and is produced by Kristyn Stilling – both CapU alumni. MoPA faculty member Lisa Kolisnyk has worked on sound for FIFA Women’s World Cup soccer tournaments in Paris, Qatar, and, this past summer, Australia – winning two Emmy Awards along the way. Documentary alumna (2023) Alix Buck has received funding to pursue a feature-length documentary based on her grad film “Lobster Queens”. Students and alumni had 15 nominations at the 2023 Leo Awards – and 6 wins, including Jessica Kalan, Best Costume Design – Motion Picture for “Bones of Crows”, also a co-winner of the Canadian Costume Artists and Designers Award. Out of more than three hundred teams, CapU business students placed second and third in 2018 and second in 2017 in the American Marketing Association Collegiate Case Competition.

Capilano University is a teaching-focused university. With an average of 26 students per class, learners at CapU are afforded individual attention. Many of our instructors balance teaching with professional practice and share real-world experiences and industry connections. It’s not uncommon for a student’s class to end on a Friday and their first professional employment to begin the following Monday. Quality of instruction at Capilano University is rated by bachelor’s degree students at 93 per cent, one of the top ratings in British Columbia, according to B.C. Student Outcomes Survey results for 2021 to 2023.

Capilano University is named after Chief Joe Capilano, an important leader of the Squamish (Sḵwx̱wú7mesh) Nation of the Coast Salish people. Our campuses are located on the territories of the Lil’wat, Musqueam, Sechelt (shíshálh) Squamish (Sḵwx̱wú7mesh) and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.

General Info General Info


Enrolment Total
9,690

Detailed Costs
Campus Locations

North Vancouver Campus

2055 Purcell Way,
North Vancouver, BC

CapU Squamish Campus

3200 University Blvd,
Squamish, BC

kálax-ay Sunshine Coast Campus

5627 Inlet Ave.,
Sechelt, BC

CapU Lonsdale

250 - 125 Victory Ship Way ,
North Vancouver, BC

North Vancouver Campus

2055 Purcell Way
North Vancouver, BC

CapU Squamish Campus

3200 University Blvd
Squamish, BC

kálax-ay Sunshine Coast Campus

5627 Inlet Ave.
Sechelt, BC

CapU Lonsdale

250 - 125 Victory Ship Way
North Vancouver, BC

Nearby Highlights

North Vancouver, B.C., home to Capilano University’s first campus, is an inspiring setting in which to learn and grow. When the school day is done, the outdoor adventures begin. Minutes from campus, you’ll find hiking and mountain biking trails, secret beaches and world-class ski resorts with spectacular views of the Vancouver skyline. Further up the Coast, where CapU serves the communities of the Sunshine Coast and the Sea-to-Sky Corridor, you’ll discover even more ways to enjoy the active West Coast lifestyle.


Credentials Available
  • Associate Degree
  • Certificates: 1 Year or Less
  • Diplomas: 2-3 Years
  • Upgrading / HS Completion
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Post-Degree / Post-Graduate Diplomas

Programs Programs


Featured Programs

Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication

In the Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication degree program, we make it our business to keep up with industry trends, innovations in technology and stay responsive to cultural change.

You’ll be prepared for a career doing what you love, whether that’s illustration, branding, graphic design, visual design, art direction, character design, typography and storyboarding, interactive design, UI (user interface) and UX (user experience), editorial design, publishing, digital media, environmental design and more.

Prior to graduation, you'll take part in an eight-week industry practicum placement to help you transition into your new career. You'll also showcase your portfolio and design work at our annual Grad Show, which is attended by Vancouver's top agencies and art directors.

We also offer study abroad partnerships with two schools: Bisen College in Japan and Robert Gordon University’s Gray’s School of Art in Scotland. Our third-year students also enjoy a week-long trip to a cultural hub, with past trips to New York City, Toronto and Mexico City.

NEW! Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Writing and Literature

As the only degree in B.C. integrating the study of literature and creative writing in one standalone program, the Bachelor of Arts Degree in Writing & Literature at Capilano University is the place for blossoming writers.

In the program, you'll apply your love of writing and English literature, learn in small, engaging seminar classes and gain the writing and research skills for various exciting careers.

This four-year bachelor's degree offers two concentrations: Critical and Creative Writing and Literature and Culture. Both share the foundation of high-impact, immersive coursework and applied, experiential elements, like publishing, teaching and study abroad.
Students in other degree programs at CapU will also have the option to minor in Writing and Literature.

Contact us today to learn more.

NEW! Bachelor of Environment and Society

Environmental issues are complex. This flexible interdisciplinary program provides students with foundational, hands-on learning experiences in several fields of environmental study.

Students can choose an environmental studies or an environmental sciences pathway through these degrees A unique modular approach to upper-level courses provides opportunities to select from various areas of study. In the upper years, students can pursue concentrations in specialty-topic modules that will allow them to gain experience and expertise in critical topics such as Climate Change: Adaptation and Mitigation; Biodiversity and Conservation; and Urban Sustainability.

Students in other degree programs at CapU will also have the option to minor in Environment and Society.
Contact us today to learn more.

Info on All Programs
Areas of Study Available
  • Business and Management
  • Communications
  • Visual, Performing and Fine Arts
  • Legal and Social Services
  • Liberal Arts and Humanities
  • Recreation, Tourism, Hospitality and Service
  • Upgrading Programs
  • Education and Library Sciences
  • Sciences
  • Health Related
  • Engineering and Electronics

Study Abroad Opportunities

Internationalize your degree, your resume and your network by spending part of your studies at a partner institution in another country — for the same tuition fee you normally pay at CapU. Students typically apply in their second year of studies to go abroad in their third.

Study Abroad Info

Admissions Admissions


Basic Admissions Requirements

Basic admissions information is included in the printed and online versions of the Capilano University Program Guide. We also include this information on our individual program web pages.

Online Program Guide | https://capilanou.ca/viewbook
Programs & Courses | capilanou.ca/programs
Admission Requirements | capilanou.ca/admission-requirements

Admission to Arts & Sciences | A minimum GPA of 2.0 (60%) calculated on English 12, BC English Studies 12 or English First Peoples 12 and 2 academic Grade 12 courses. 

Admission to Business Administration | High School graduation; English 12 (C+) with proof of registration in English Studies 12 or English First Peoples 12; and MATH 11 (C) or other listed Math requirements for Business Programs |  capilanou.ca/business

Admission to other faculties / career programs | Programs may require a portfolio, supplemental documents, audition, particular academic subjects, a minimum GPA or have a selective or competitive admission process.

Full admission requirements can be found at capilanou.ca/programs


IB and AP Credits
IB Diploma applicants

International Baccalaureate students are eligible for admission on the basis of successful completion of the IB Diploma. Capilano University English Language Requirements and program specific requirements must also be met. For those students who are completing both the IB Diploma and another high school curriculum, Capilano will use the credential which offers the applicant the best advantage. Transfer credit or advanced standing will be awarded for IB courses. Check the Transfer Credit section of the Capilano University Calendar (pdf) for a table of credit awarded for IB course work, or consult the BC Transfer Guide.

IB Certificate applicants

In order to meet admission requirements applicants must successfully achieve high school completion (or the equivalent). Capilano University English Language Requirements and program specific requirements must also be met. For IB students not completing the IB Diploma it should be noted that IB certificate courses at both the standard and higher level can be used for admission in conjunction with another high school curriculum. IB certificate courses will also be considered for transfer credit or advanced standing. Check the Transfer Credit section of the Capilano University Calendar (pdf) or the BC Transfer Guide for more information.

Advanced Placement applicants

In order to meet admission requirements, applicants from the Advanced Placement program (AP) must successfully achieve high school completion (or the equivalent). Capilano University English Language Requirements and program specific requirements must also be met. AP courses are eligible for admission consideration and AP course grades may be combined with an approved high school curriculum to meet Capilano’s admission requirements. AP courses will also be considered for transfer credit or advanced standing. Please see the Transfer Credit section of the Capilano University Calendar (pdf) for a table of credit awarded for AP course work, or consult the BC Transfer Guide.

English Proficiency Requirements

TOEFL 83 (internet), 560 (paper)

IELTS (academic) 6.5 overall, no one score less than 6

CAEL 70

Other ways to meet the language requirements: capilanou.ca/requirements


Application Deadline

Applications for admission will open 11 months prior of the intended intake: 

For Fall term (September): Early October 

For Spring term (January): Early February 

Early application deadlines for specific programs may vary|capilanou.ca/programs 

Application Fee

$50.00 | New domestic applicants and all applicants applying for readmission
$135.00 | New international applicants

How to Apply

Step 1. Check the admission requirements

Before you apply, check to make sure you meet the admission requirements for the program you’ve chosen.

Use the BC Transfer Guide to see if you have credits that cover a prerequisite or count toward your program.

Step 2. Check the application and document deadlines for your program

Check the specific program page for application and document deadlines.

Step 3. Complete and submit your application

All students apply online through the link to EducationPlanner on the Admissions web page.


Admissions Contact Email

Financial Aid Financial Aid


Entrance Scholarships Deadline

Capilano University entrance awards recognize and support students for their leadership abilities, volunteerism and community involvement, athletic and artistic achievements, financial need, and academic excellence. Awards range in value from $500 to $56,000 and are open to both new domestic and international students. Applications are available online from October 15 to March 31, with the exception of the Capilano Excellence Scholarship (CAPX), which has a deadline of March 1, 2026.


Entrance Scholarships Info
Other Scholarship Info
Student Loan Info

Financial Aid Contact Email

Residence Residence


First Year Residence Spots
Guaranteed spots for the New Squamish Student Housing! See how to apply on the link below.
Residence Options

Capilano Housing 

  • CapU Squamish Campus Housing is located in the heart of the Squamish, adjacent to dining, recreation, academic, and student services. All 2026 applicants are guaranteed a spot in on-campus housing!
  • CapU North Vancouver Campus Housing provides an affordable, safe and convenient housing option for full-time students, supported by live-in residence advisors, just a short distance from the campus.
  • New on-campus housing opening in Spring 2026!
Total Average Residence Cost
Residence fees range from $1,410 monthly depending on type of room, and includes a mandatory meal plan, offering healthy, nutritious meal options for breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week.
Residence Cost Details

Squamish Campus Housing:

Single Suite (Shared Washroom) = $6,566.80* (Per Semester)

North Vancouver Campus Housing:

Shared Double Occupancy Room = $$5,700.00* (Per Semester)

Single Occupancy Room = $6,340.00* (Per Semester)

*Application Fee [$50] plus $500 deposit on acceptance required.

*Estimated 2025-26 fees.
*Meal plans, Wi-Fi, and Laundry included


Residence Application Deadline

Application deadlines vary by term  All other info available at capilanou.ca/housing

How to Apply

Residence Contact Email
Residence Contact Phone

Accessibility Supports & Services Accessibility Supports & Services


Accessibility Supports & Services Info

Accessibility Services coordinates and establishes academic accommodations and associated services for students with disabilities at Capilano University.

CapU is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive educational environment for our community. At Accessibility Services, we support current and incoming students who have ongoing medical or disabling conditions.

We can help with:

  • Academic accommodations
  • Disability-specific funding
  • Associated supports and services

New to Accessibility Services?   More information can be found by checking out the “How To Request an Academic Accommodation” section of our website (see below)

 

More Accessibility Info

Indigenous Student Supports & Services Indigenous Student Supports & Services


Indigenous Student Supports & Services Info

We welcome all Indigenous students to the Kéxwusm-áyakn Student Centre. This is a safe space for students of First Nations, Inuit and Métis ancestry. Meet new people and find support. Relax, share and study.

You’ll find the Centre in the Library Building, room LB196. It’s on the ground floor, next to the Capilano Student Union Lounge.

The Kéxwusm-áyakn Student Centre is named after the Squamish Nation (Swxwú7mesh—Sko-ko-mish) word for “a place to meet.” It offers Indigenous students:

  • a safe place to relax and meet new people
  • useful information and resources
  • space to study, meet and eat lunch
  • use of computers and a printer
  • fridge, microwave and sink
  • telephone for local calls
  • notice board for events
  • cultural workshops
  • contact with in-residence Elders.

There are direct services and support for students of First Nations, Inuit and Métis ancestry. These include:

  • help with choosing courses and registering at CapU
  • contact with First Nations Band education officers and CapU instructors
  • advising on special programs, and
  • advice and help with personal, health and school-based issues.

This assistance is available to students at our North Vancouver and Sechelt campuses.

There’s a special corner of our website just for you, where you can find out more about the programs and services for Indigenous Students at Capilano University.

If you have questions or would like more information, please contact [email protected].

More Indigenous Student Info

International Students International Students


International Student Info

Capilano University is a “home away from home” for international students from 92 countries around the world, supported by a team of dedicated international education professionals who guide students throughout the CapU experience.

English Language Requirement

If English is not your first language or you’ve received your education in a language other than English, you must take one of the following English language assessment tests:

  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
    • Required minimum marks:
      • online test (TOEFL iBT®): 83
      • paper-delivered test: 560
    • Capilano University TOEFL code: 0505
  • Academic IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
      • Required minimum mark: 6.5 overall, with no single score below 6
  • CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language Assessment Test)
    • Required minimum mark: 70
  • PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English – Academic)
    • Required minimum mark: 56
  • DET (Duolingo English Test) – Being accepted on a temporary basis.
    • Required minimum mark: 125 or higher with no sub-score less than 115

Minimum requirements are on the Admissions web page: www.capilanou.ca/admissions/apply-to-capu/admission-requirements/

More International Student Info

International Students Contact Email
International Students Contact Phone