VIU tech diploma program modernized and includes cybersecurity and AI

Published 5:00 pm Thursday, July 2, 2026

Vancouver Island University’s business information technology systems diploma has a stronger emphasis on cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. (News Bulletin file photo)

An upgraded technology program will spotlight cybersecurity and AI, says Vancouver Island University.

After VIU benched the web and mobile development diploma program for a year to conduct a comprehensive analysis, it has given way to the business information technology systems diploma, stated a press release, with “a stronger focus on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and business skills.”

The two-year diploma melds technical training with functional, hands-on projects, with the aim of preparing students that “can bridge business needs and technical delivery,” Brandon Britt, program chairperson, said in the release.

“The [information technology] field has changed,” said Britt. “These skills are part of everyday work in technology, so we built them into the program from the start. We connected with employers to find out what graduates need to be job ready.”

The dialogue helped VIU develop a program reflective of the contemporary technology industry, with emphasis still “on projects that solve real-world challenges – building applications, designing systems and working with data – while learning how to translate real requirements into secure, usable solutions,” the press release stated.

Among people enrolled, Yadhu Sivan, who is working on his project entitled CivicMesh, described in the press release as a communication system that doesn’t require internet or cellphone service. Instead, it creates a wireless network, via miniature devices, allowing for messaging in the event of emergencies and power outages.

“Developing CivicMesh taught me a lot about problem-solving under real limits,” Sivan said. “You learn how to adapt when hardware does not do what you expected.”

More information on the program can be found at https://tradesappliedtech.viu.ca/itas.