life at bcit

At BCIT, you can have it all - a great experience in the classroom and an exciting life outside of class!

Through hands-on training, in small classes with industry-experienced instructors, you'll develop the theoretical knowledge relevant to your chosen discipline and the practical skills you need for career success.

But that's not all. Your life at BCIT can be as interesting outside of the classroom as it is in, through student orientation, clubs, team sports, recreational activities, and social events.

In the classroom

There are many different types of learning activities and formats that BCIT students participate in during their education. For a better idea of what you're in for, read on.

Classroom - You'll spend a little more than half your time in a classroom. During classes, you will benefit from lectures, class discussions, and demonstrations.

Practical projects in a BCIT lab or shop - Approximately half of your time is spent in a lab or shop putting into action what you've learned in the classroom. By completing projects, you'll practise the skills you'll need when you enter the workforce.

Teamwork - A BCIT education emphasizes teamwork. Students work in groups of two to 10 on assignments and projects. As a result, you'll develop outstanding teamwork, interpersonal and communication skills, which are critical to success at school, work, and play. Working with others also makes learning fun - you'll share ideas, receive help when you need it, and learn from helping others.

Clinical training - Students in health sciences programs complete supervised clinical training in hospitals throughout the province. If you're a student in one of these programs, you'll receive an opportunity to practise what you'll be learning at BCIT, and obtain practical experience in the environment you'll be working in after you graduate.

Industry-sponsored projects - The reputation of BCIT students is well established and there are many companies eager to benefit from the skills and know-how of those enrolled in BCIT programs through sponsored projects. In such a project, you'll be teamed up with companies in industry to complete a project, solve a problem, or participate in an internship. This will give you an opportunity to apply what you've learned at BCIT, develop new skills, get real experience, and build working relationships with mentors and other people in the field who will be useful contacts later.

Cooperative Education - Cooperative education (or co-op, for short) involves work placements that integrate high quality training with community and industry interaction. It is a three-way partnership between the student, the employer, and BCIT. For more information please see: Cooperative Education. 

Life outside the classroom

BCIT is committed to providing a campus lifestyle that has lots to keep you  occupied, fit, and entertained.

Check out the wide variety of recreational facilities, clubs and activities available for BCIT students.

Information on other clubs and activities to get involved in are at the  BCIT Student Association web site under "events" and "student clubs."