A VIU Motorcycle and Marine Technician stduent works on a motorbike

Program Details, Costs, and Admission Requirements

  • Program Length
    9 Months
  • Credential
    Certificate
  • Options
    Apprenticeship
  • Location Offered
    Nanaimo

If you like to solve problems, enjoy a mechanical challenge, and see yourself working with small engines, the Motorcyle and Marine Technician program at VIU is for you.

Skilled workers are in demand in B.C. and across Canada for jobs in marine, motorcycle, and small engine repair and service.

As a student in this 9-month program, you will work in small classes with expert instructors to learn what you need to be a success in this highly skilled industry. After a month in the program, you’ll be applying your new skills to servicing customers’ products, and you will also benefit from a two-week practicum to gain valuable workplace experience.

If you’re looking for a small engine repair course -- Vancouver Island University’s program will get you on the road to success.

Program Overview

This certificate program is suited to individuals with all levels of mechanical experience and prepares students for careers as marine mechanical technicians or motorcycle and power equipment technicians. Upon successful completion, students receive a VIU Marine and Motorcycle Mechanical Technician Certificate. Graduates also receive credit from SkilledTradesBC for Level 1 Apprentice Technical Training for Marine Mechanical Technician. Students wishing to pursue a career in Motorcycle Mechanic may sign on with an employer and challenge their Motorcycle Mechanic Level 1 apprenticeship. The program encompasses theory, practical knowledge, and techniques essential to maintain and repair modern inboard/outboard marine, motorcycle, and other power equipment. Hands-on training with customer products is emphasized. Students are required to spend approximately one month on introductory basic mechanical skills prior to servicing customers' products.

For more information and schedules visit VIU's Trades and Applied Technology Apprenticeship page.

Note: Human Resources and Skills Development Canada may assist students in this program; contact your local Employment Centre regarding eligibility for sponsorship.

* See a VIU Advisor for information on equivalencies.

Notes on Admission

  • Good health and not allergic to solvents and lubricants.
  • An interview may be required.

Marine & Motorcycle Technician
MMTP 110T - (Shop Fundamentals)
MMTP 115T - (Engine Fundamentals)
MMTP 116T - (Electrical Fundamentals)
MMTP 135T - (Fuel System Fundamentals)
MMTP 140T - (Drive System Fundamentals)
MMTP 145T - (Service Component Systems)
MMTP 170T - (Welding)
Essential Skills for the Workplace
ESFP 100T - (Personal Management Skills)
ESFP 105T - (Marine and Motorcycle Technician Math)
ESFP 110T - (Business Operations)
ESFP 115T - (The Emerging Workplace)
ESFP 120T - (Employment Strategies and Work Experience)

All program courses must be successfully completed before certificates will be issued.

Graduates of this program may find work as apprentice inboard/outboard marine technicians or motorcycle/outdoor power equipment technicians. Job opportunities exist throughout BC.

Graduates of this program may receive credit towards the technical portion of the first year of apprenticeship training. In order to complete the apprenticeship and become a journey person, graduates would find an employer in the industry to provide on-the-job training, and return to a participating training institution for 4 weeks per year in each of the next three years. For more information on apprenticeship training, please visit SkilledTradesBC, phone 1.866.660.6011, or call Apprentice at Vancouver Island University toll-free at 1.888.920.2221 Ext. 6227 or email apprentice@viu.ca.

Domestic Fees

Tuition and Other Mandatory Student Fees

When applying to the program, applicants will be charged a non-refundable application fee.

When applying to graduate, students will be charged a non-refundable graduation and alumni fee.

Some courses have additional fees to pay for extraordinary class–related expenses.

Fees Amount
Tuition (9 months x $499.20 per month) 4,492.80
Student Activity fee (9 months x $19.97 per month) 179.73
Student Services fee (9 months x $22.05 per month) 198.45
VIU Students' Union fee (9 months x $27.60 per month) 248.40
Health and Dental Plan fee ($285.00 per year) 285.00
Textbooks and supplies (approximate cost) 1,000.00
Total 6,404.38
Notes

The VIUSU Health and Dental Plan fee is assessed for all students enrolled in 6 credits or more per term, or in Trades/Vocational programs of 5 months or longer.  

All fees are subject to change without prior notice and are expected to increase by 2% each year on April 1.

Domestic (Canadian)

Program Start Date Accepting Applications Campus Options