It’s hard to believe 10 years have passed since we opened the doors to our expanded Continuing Studies Building in 2016! This anniversary got us thinking about many other developments at DCS over the past 10 years that have increased the options, support and resources enjoyed by our international student community.

So… what have we done over the past decade? Here are just a few highlights across three key areas:

Programming and growth

•   Welcomed over 10,000 students to ELC programs
•   Launched online English programs! This was *thanks* to the pandemic, but online study is now a popular part of customized ELC programs
•   Added international teacher training programs (EMI, TEFL and customized) to the ELC program portfolio
•   Introduced Get Global Ready, to clarify the options and pathways available to international learners through Continuing Studies programs
•   Updated our Top 10 Reasons to Study at the ELC list, to show how ELC programs fit with the interests and priorities of international students today

Student support and experience

•   Expanded our student support staff, including a visa/immigration consultant, student counsellor and career counsellor
•   Introduced the Student Services Fee (SSF) to ensure that every international student at DCS receives emergency medical insurance, a local bus pass and gym pass at a reduced, bundled rate for the duration of their studies
•   Secured official UVic alumni status and access to alumni benefits for ELC graduates

Pathways and partnerships

•   Enhanced the Intensive English to Business Pathway  , offering ELPI at a reduced fee and conditional admission to many Business programs
•   Joined Languages Canada to expand our partner network and show our commitment to quality assurance
•   Strengthened ties with ELC alumni through enhanced communications, resources and social media
•   Won prestigious industry awards for outstanding programming and student support in our ELC programs

It’s been a busy 10 years! This list is probably missing a few items, but one thing is clear: we’re committed to growing and innovating as one of Canada’s largest public-university language schools. Our partners and partnerships are crucial to all that we achieve, and we thank you for your continued support. Just imagine what highlights and milestones might be on our list in 2036…?

 

 

• Posted April 9, 2026