Capilano University
North Vancouver, Canada • Founded 1968
Updated Sep 2026
Overview
Established in 1968, the Capilano University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the small city of North Vancouver (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), British Columbia.
This institution also has a branch campus in Squamish and Sechelt. Officially recognized by the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills of British Columbia, Capilano University (CapU) is a medium-sized coeducational Canadian higher education institution.
Capilano University (CapU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation) and bachelor's degrees in several areas of study. This 56-year-old Canadian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on students' past academic records and grades.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
CapU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Capilano University's street address and primary contact methods. Social channels often differentiate by purpose — admissions on one, alumni on another, events on a third.
Academic Details
Capilano University's institutional metrics and recognition context. Recognition reciprocity matters for credential portability — check whether your home country accepts Capilano University's qualifications.
Academic Structures
Browse the academic-unit structure of Capilano University. Multi-faculty programmes exist but are usually administered by a lead faculty that handles admissions and credentialing.
Unit 6 items
- Department of Arts and Sciences
- Department of Business and Professional Studies
- Department of Continuing Education
- Department of Fine Arts and Applied Arts
- Department of Health and Education
- Department of Tourism and Outdoor Recreation
Programs Offered
Find a programme at Capilano University by filter, or browse by degree level. Online and on-campus delivery modes differ in tuition, time commitment, and credential recognition — confirm which mode each programme runs in.
87 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in Canada
Bachelor's Degree 18 programmes
Showing 10 of 18.
Associate's Degree 2 programmes
Certificate 28 programmes
Showing 10 of 28.
Diploma 24 programmes
Showing 10 of 24.
Foundation 4 programmes
Micro-credential 3 programmes
Postgraduate Certificate 3 programmes
Postgraduate Diploma 5 programmes
How to apply to Capilano University
What applying to Capilano University typically involves — research, eligibility check, document prep, submission, and follow-up.
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1
Find a programme that fits your goals
Capilano University's catalogue includes 87 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.
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2
Confirm you meet the requirements
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Capilano University's admissions process.
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3
Assemble your application package
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
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4
Submit your application
Submit your completed application through Capilano University's official website at www.capilanou.ca. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.
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5
Contact admissions and follow up
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (604) 990 7914. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about Capilano University
Common questions students ask about Capilano University — answers pulled straight from the institution's published profile.
When was Capilano University founded?
Capilano University was established in 1968 (approximately 58 years ago).
Where is Capilano University located?
Capilano University is located in North Vancouver, Canada.
Is Capilano University a public or private institution?
Capilano University is a public institution.
What is the student enrolment at Capilano University?
Student enrolment at Capilano University is around 6,000-6,999.
How is Capilano University organised academically?
The institution comprises 6 academic units.
Is Capilano University accredited?
Yes, Capilano University is recognised by Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills of British Columbia.
How do I find Capilano University online?
You can find Capilano University online at www.capilanou.ca.
Top-Ranked Universities in Canada
These are the most highly ranked universities in Canada. Putting Capilano University alongside them gives a clearer picture of where it sits in the national academic landscape, especially when reputation matters for credential portability.
Members of Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE)
Member institutions of Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) often have reciprocity arrangements on accreditation — degrees from one member institution typically face fewer credential-recognition issues at others.
Faculties at nearby universities
Other institutions in Capilano University's region offer similar admissions cycles and overlapping subject areas, listed below for comparison. Regional clusters often share employer networks and post-study career pathways.
Where Else to Study Education & Teaching
Interested in Education & Teaching but want alternatives to Capilano University? These institutions in Canada also offer programmes in this field, each with their own specialisations and admissions paths. Comparing the curriculum across schools often surfaces differences worth weighing.
Universities Compared with Capilano University
Yield rates (proportion of admitted students who enroll) cluster among peer institutions. High-yield universities signal strong applicant preference compared to peers at the same selectivity level.
Studying in Canada: guides and resources
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