Science & Technology Programs

Green Building & Renewable Energy Technician

• 2–Year Diploma Program

• Program Fees: Domestic Students, International Students

• Apply for Admission: Forms and Information

Note: VIU also offers a Renewable Energy Technology certificate.

The Program

This is a two-year diploma program that addresses energy efficiency and renewable energy applications in buildings. The program is an education option for people working in, or intending to work in the field of green building design, construction and operation. An underlying theme of the program is environmental, social, and financial sustainability in buildings as exemplified by the LEED® program

Applied technical courses are complemented with design, evaluation and communication courses. The program is taught through a combination of lectures, tutorials, lab and/or field work. One third of the student's time is in the lab or field. Lecture courses will require the completion of assignments and projects as homework.

Career Opportunities

Program graduates will possess the fundamental skills and knowledge to be successful in entry-level and intermediate-level positions in the renewable energy and green building industries. Emphasis in the program is on the skills and knowledge necessary to work with professionals engaged in green building and renewable energy projects. Graduates will be prepared to participate in the emerging green building industry or the renewable energy industry, providing technical communication, design, assessment and evaluation services to engineers, architects, contractors, project managers, and facilities managers.

Admission Requirements

• General admission requirements apply
• Principles of Math 11 or Applications of Math 12 with a minimum "C+" grade or equivalent,
• Principles of Physics 12 or minimum "C+" in one of Principles of Physics 11 or Applications of Physics 12.

Recommendations for Admission

• Students should have experience working with hand tools.
• Students must be physically fit and have good hand-eye coordination.

Notes on Admission

• Candidates who have completed the Vancouver Island University HVAC/R Technician certificate are eligible for advanced standing in the GBRET Diploma program.
• Candidates who have completed the Vancouver Island University Renewable Energy Technology certificate are eligible for exemption for GBET 260.
• Some courses take place at the Cowichan Campus and students must be able to attend courses at both the Nanaimo and Cowichan Campuses.

Start Date and Application Deadline

The program starts in September and applications are accepted between November 15 and March 31. For further information regarding late applications, program contacts, and scheduled information sessions check the Program Availability List.

Program Outline

* Students who have completed Principles of Math 12 with a minimum "C+" are exempt from taking MATH 151/152.

* Technical elective to be chosen in consultation with the program Chair.

Updated August 13, 2010