Courses

A menacing, dark silhouette of a figure with elongated, claw-like fingers raised, cast against a stark, blood-red background, evoking the iconic horror imagery associated with Nosferatu

100 Years of Nosferatu

Explore cinematic vampires, focusing on Nosferatu (1922, 1979, 2024). Analyze their cultural impact & pivotal role in horror's rise.

A Buddhist Guide to a Compassionate Life

Universal compassion is the heart of Mahayan Buddhism. In this course, you will explore how to live a meaningful life through following the path of a Bodhisattva.

Bas-relief of a smiling face of Buddha gazing upwards

A Buddhist Life of Compassionate Purpose

The Bodhisattva's path helps transform self-centeredness into boundless energy for a life of purpose and positive change.

A History of Ross Bay Cemetery

Ross Bay Cemetery is a designated heritage site and one of British Columbia’s most iconic Victorian era cemeteries.

A History of the James Bay Neighbourhood

Learn about the history of James Bay, Victoria’s oldest residential district, from the 1840s to today.

Accepting Loss and Change in Our Life

Experiencing and dealing with unwanted changes is often a very painful part of life. Instead of allowing adversities to make us unhappy and discouraged, we can use them to enhance our spiritual growth and thereby maintain a pure and peaceful mind all the time.

Collection of accessibility icons including wheelchair symbol, sign language hands, walking figure, ear for hearing, brain for cognitive accessibility, and eye for visual impairment, representing diverse workplace accommodations and inclusive design

Accessibility in the Workplace

Learn how to create inclusive, accessible, and equitable workplaces. Explore disability inclusion, anti-ableism, inclusive language, and assistive technology while developing practical tools and strategies to support accessibility in any organization.

Creating Sustainable, Safe, and People-Centred Allyship

This is a practical, people-centred workshop designed to help you move beyond surface-level allyship—from performative gestures toward grounded, relational and sustained action.

A bronze statue of Lady Justice, blindfolded and holding scales, is positioned on the left side of the frame. Her face is solemn, and the scales are slightly blurred. The background is a soft, out-of-focus blend of blue and white, suggesting a formal or institutional setting. The image evokes themes of law, fairness, and governance

Ancient Politics: A Search for the Good Life

Ancient political thought: exploring competing ideas of 'the good' and its impact on democracy, justice, virtue and political conflict.

Artificial Intelligence in Border Management

In this course you will be introduced to artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) and learn about their practical applications in both trade facilitation and trade enforcement.

Digital illustration of a pink human brain wrapped in metal chains against a light blue background, symbolizing the restriction and censorship of knowledge, ideas, and intellectual freedom.

Banned Ideas: The Struggle Over the Control of Knowledge

Learn how sociology explains modern censorship efforts targeting books, curricula and courses across North America. Explore why certain ideas are banned from schools.

A dining table laden with various dishes with hands reaching out taking servings.

Beyond the Plate: Food, Culture and Social Impact

This course examines food's impact on culture, identity, and the environment, exploring traditions, sustainability, food justice, and the global systems connected to our choices.

Border Law and Border Disputes in the 21st Century

In this course you will learn about the complex object of the border through the prism of law.

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Bridging Knowledge Culture: Rebalancing Power

Introduction to the concept of knowledge cultures, the ways in which knowledge is created, validated, shared and acted upon in different settings. We will look at the differences found in the knowledge cultures of academia compared with diverse community contexts.

Buddhist Advice for Embracing Change

This course guides you to embrace life fearlessly, transform challenges into advantages, and uncover joy and purpose by tapping into your inner potential.

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Buddhist Advice for Transforming Anger and Hurt

This series teaches strategies to transform anger from hurt and rejection into peaceful, clear-minded responses, fostering resolution, harmony, and overcoming negative emotions.

Buddhist Advice for Wisdom-Based Love

This course will introduce us to special Buddhist insights and meditations for developing a wisdom-based love that is a foundation for a truly joyful and meaningful approach to life.

Silhouette of Buddhist statue meditating

Buddhist Thoughts on the Unceasing Mind

if we are willing to investigate with an open mind, we may find that the existence of past and future lives is a logical implication arising from the nature of the mind itself.

Illustration with crumpled up balls of paper over a silhouette of a person.

Buddhist Wisdom for Silencing the Inner Critic

Many of us have a tendency to be excessively self-critical, self doubting, and lacking in confidence. In this course, we will learn how to use Buddhist insights and wisdom to free ourselves from self critical thoughts and attitudes and recognize our potential for limitless inner peace and mental freedom.

Buddha statue on the grass with burning candle, a sunflower and the awareness of 3 intentions for today.

Buddhist Wisdom for Today’s World

Explore Buddhist wisdom teachings for modern life. Learn practical methods to cultivate peace, clarity, and positive attitudes amid today's challenges.

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Carnivores vs. Herbivores: Rethinking Meat and Plant-Based Diets

This course examines health, ethical, and environmental aspects of meat-based and plant-based diets, helping you make informed food choices in today's complex world.

Historic stone bridge spanning the Rhône River with medieval architecture and fortified buildings in the background, representing the heritage of southern France.

Cathars, Castles and Carignan: Exploring Historic Southern France

This course explores the history and culture of Languedoc, Bordeaux and Provence from ancient times to today. Discover pirate hideouts, witness the French Revolution, and admire the bravery of the French Resistance!

Mysterious, redhead woman throwing a spell during meditation. Shade and light beams

Celts, Saxons and Witches: An Introduction to Medieval Paganism

Uncover how early medieval Celts, Picts, Anglo-Saxons and Vikings understood the world through myth, magic and the cultural practices they left behind.

Chinese New Year Customs

John Adams, author of Chinese Victoria, will explain how the date of the annual event is calculated, how the twelve Chinese zodiac animals were chosen and show many of the items popularly used in the celebrations.

Cinematic Century: Film and History in 20th Century Europe

Discover the unique relationship between film, culture and history in Europe over the course of the 20th century.

Christmas in Old Victoria

Find out how Christmas was observed in Victoria during the 19th century, from the annual decoration of the churches to the competition between butcher shops for the fanciest store window displays.

Outside in a garden nursery with arched greenhouses in the background, A man is holding a small potted plant and discussing it with a seated woman and a man in a wheelchair

Community-Based Participatory Research

This course offers a brief introduction to the theories and practices of community-based participatory research as developed by Rajesh Tandon and Budd Hall, who have led in the development of these approaches since the 1970s.

In a community centre room, a woman in jeans and a pink sweater is smiling and speaking to a small seated circle of men and women from all cultures

Community-University Engagement and Partnership Development

The course outlines principles of community-university engagement, the challenges of integrating community-university engagement into research, teaching and service in higher education institutions, reviews institutional structures to support CUE and shares information on national policies supporting community-university engagement.

Illustration of person controlling other people like they

Conspiracies, Extremism and Radicalization in the 21st Century

What does it mean to be a conspiracy theorist? What can lead someone from sharing memes about the Reptiloids or the Illuminati online, to storming the halls of the United States Capitol buildings?

A young woman standing in a food aisle of a grocery store reading the label of a can of food and consulting information on her phone

Consumed: The Hidden Forces Shaping Your Food Choices

This course reveals how marketing, media, and store design influence food choices, exploring consumer-producer power dynamics through discussions that challenge everyday shopping decisions.

Cross Border Management in Comparative Perspective

In this course you will join experts from around the world to examine local and regional changes affecting the politics and policies of cross border regions and transboundary people.

Cultural Property

The related concepts of Cultural Property, Traditional Knowledge and Expressions of Culture are considered nationally and internationally in contexts including Intellectual Property, Conflict of Laws, Constitutional Law and International Law as these areas pertain to cultural artifacts and intangible cultural expressions.

Death and Dying: A Buddhist Perspective

This course, led by Gen Zopa, explores Buddha’s teachings on death and dying, offering guidance to live meaningfully, face mortality, and die peacefully and without regrets.

Democratic Backsliding and Opposition Strategies

In recent years, various countries with different historical backgrounds and levels of democratic achievements have experienced what is often referred to as democratic backsliding. This course looks into the scholarship and practice of democracy to explore contemporary instances of democratic backsliding and opposition strategies.

close-up of a hand holding a glass globe. The background of sky and trees are out of focus, but the scene is clearly in focus in the glass globe.

Dreamlike Illusory Nature of Reality: Exploring How Things Exist

Buddha’s teachings on wisdom explores the true nature of all things: how things exist, as opposed to how they appear. In this four-part series, we will explore how to reinterpret the way we perceive our experiences, gaining the freedom to decide how best to relate to them.

An overhead shot displays an array of colorful spices on a dark gray surface. Clear glass jars are tipped over, spilling whole white peppercorns, cloves, green cardamom pods, and cinnamon sticks. Piles of red and yellow powdered spices are also visible, along with loose cloves and cardamom pods. In the background, out-of-focus red chili peppers and green leaves add to the vibrant composition.

Eating with Intention: Ayurveda, Food and Self

Discover how Ayurvedic wisdom can help you eat with balance, energy and connection in this beginner-friendly course focused on food and well-being.

Ecological Border Management

In the era of the Anthropocene, as aquatic, grassland, forest, desert, and tundra biomes are being affected by important ecological changes, management issues are rising beyond state boundary lines.

A map of North America focusing on Canada with a Canadian flag placed in the center of Canada.

Elbows Up? The Politics Behind Why Canada is Not America

President Trump called the Canada–U.S. border artificial, drawing attention to tariffs and talk of a "51st state." Despite shared geography and liberal democracies, Canada’s distinct history, institutions, and values shape its sovereignty. This course explores why Canada remains politically and culturally separate from the U.S.

Escape

An escape can be the act of leaving one situation for something better or it can be a destination. History, literature and popular culture provide many examples, such as the Underground Railroad; Timothy Leary’s Turn On, Tune In, Drop Out; Club Med; or Atanarjuat: The Fast Runner.

Fairfield History

Before 1843, what did the terrain of Fairfield look like, where were the village sites of the Indigenous inhabitants, and how were the streams and waterways used as a shortcut from Ross Bay to the Inner Harbour?

Vintage compass resting on a detailed fantasy map with intricate place names and terrain, symbolizing imaginative cartography and creative world-building.

Fantastical Cartography: Geofiction and Mapmaking

This course has students learn about geographic and cartographic elements in fictional worlds like The Hobbit and Game of Thrones.

Row of soldiers in green military uniforms standing in formation on snow-covered ground, symbolizing authoritarianism, power structures, and political control.

Fascist Futures: Identity Politics and the New Authoritarianism

In this course, we're going to work to demystify the idea of fascism, before taking a closer look at the nuts and bolts of fascist ideology, and how elements of it have made their way into mainstream politics across the Global North.

Hiker with backpack standing triumphantly atop a rocky mountain summit with arms raised in victory, overlooking a vast valley and mountain ranges below under an overcast sky, symbolizing overcoming challenges and reaching new heights.

Finding Inspiration Through Adversities

This course offers a unique opportunity to explore how we can transform our experience of hardship and uncover hidden sources of courage and meaning, drawing upon the profound wisdom of Buddha’s teachings.

World map creatively formed from fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs including tomatoes, leafy greens, carrots, and citrus, illustrating global food systems, sustainable agriculture, environmental connections, and plant-based nutrition across continents.

Food, Environment and Resilience

This course explores the deep connections between food and environment, from climate change and biodiversity to fisheries, forests, and farms. Through case studies, discussion, and critical reflection, students will gain insight into the ecological footprint of their meals and discover practical ways to make more sustainable food choices.

Fort Victoria: From 1843 Founding to 1860s Demolition

Fort Victoria -why it was founded, why the site was chosen, the role of local First Nations people in its construction, and the language spoken by its workforce.

Freedom from Anger and Resentment

Anger, from minor annoyance to complete meltdown, afflicts our minds almost daily. Resentment is even worse because it holds on to this anger, becoming a destructive force of unhappiness.

Close-up of a pile of fresh clams with varied shells in shades of gray, brown, and cream, representing traditional clam gardens and coastal food heritage.

From Clam Gardens to Craft Beer: Vancouver Island Food Histories and Futures

This course traces the story of food on the Island, from clam gardens and camas fields to salmon canneries, cideries, and craft breweries. Students will explore how geography, history, and culture intersect in what we grow, harvest, and eat — and discover the role of food in shaping community, identity, and sustainability on the Island.

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Future Ecosystems and Communities

Focuses on the interface between communities and the ecosystems that support them, developing skills and approaches for designing mitigation and adaptation strategies that support mutual flourishing, including adaptive management, ecological restoration, and nature-based solutions.

Ghosts and Legends of Victoria

As October draws to a close, people begin to think of Halloween. Historian John Adams has been collecting ghost stories from Victoria for 25 years and will share some of the classics and some of the most intriguing during this presentation.

Globe of the Earth resting on an open reference book. The globe is showing the Indian ocean, India, east coast of Africa and Oceana

Global Policies in Knowledge Democracy and Higher Education

This course will introduce the Knowledge Democracy and Higher Education Series and the instructors and facilitators involved in the series. The content in this course will focus on recent reports and policy documents associated with UNESCO and the 2022 World Conference on Higher Education.

History of Childhood in Early BC

Discover the lesser-known world of childhood in early British Columbia. By considering what the early generations of children were reading—where they were working, when they were going to school, and how they were recorded by governments—we will shed light onto their notions of British Columbian identity.

Aerial photo of Oak Bay, Victoria, Canada

History of Oak Bay

Find out about the Willows racetrack, Chinese market gardens, the plan to create an English-style seaside resort and how the district almost became the home for the University of British Columbia. This will be a richly illustrated talk with period photographs and maps.

History of Victoria's Chinatown

You'll discover the true story behind these reports and learn about the history of Victoria’s Chinese community.

Homer's Odyssey and the Intervention of the Gods

Discover the genius of Homer’s gods and heroes that are cleverly modelled after ancient Greek culture, poetry and education. Journey beyond knowing names like Odysseus, Athena or Poseidon, and gain an understanding of ancient Greek archetypes and their historical context.

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How AI Changes the Biggest Questions of Philosophy

What does it mean to be human? Thanks to artificial intelligence, we are forced to question our creativity, intelligence, privacy and rights. This course offers a safe place to explore these questions and begin understanding who you want to be in a world where machines can think.

How Buddhism Puts Happiness Within Reach

We can learn how to let go of our inner agitation and dissatisfaction, and nurture peaceful, positive minds that open up a whole new, wonderful way of life.

How Marine Conservation Works: Biodiversity and People

This lecture will explain how marine conservation tools such as marine protected areas work to protect species and ecosystems.

How Marine Conservation Works: Biodiversity and People

With pressures on the ocean increasing, conservation actions are urgently needed to prevent further declines of marine biodiversity. This lecture will explain how marine conservation tools such as marine protected areas work to protect species and ecosystems.

How Russia Remembers: World War II and National Identity

Explore how the memory of World War II is used in today’s Russia to shape national identity and support political power.

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Human Rights and Civil Liberties in Everyday Life

This course explores how people and societies define home, nation and community in a globalized world. Through accessible examples and discussion, you will examine migration, multiculturalism, nationalism, refugees, and the emotional meanings of borders.

Indigenous Intellectual Property

The premise of this course is that the articulation, restatement, and development of indigenous intellectual property law must derive from indigenous legal orders as an integral part of the societal governance.

Indigenous Internationalisms and Border Crossings

Expressions of Indigenous internationalism are practiced in several different ways by First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across Turtle Island and globally.

Indigenous Sovereignty for Settlers

Join us in developing a deeper understanding of Indigenous protocol, sovereignty, and relationships, and a practical toolkit to better provide harm-free support for Indigenous initiatives and projects.

Industrial Victoria

In this illustrated talk, John Adams will explain the origins and operation of the most important industries, and reasons for their demise.

An overhead arial view of a forest overlaid with a lattice grid link a variety of sustainability icons

Integrating SDGs in Higher Education

This course explores the critical features of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their global significance.

Intellectual Property

A study of the concepts, principles, and policies of intellectual property law, the relationship and boundary issues between types of intellectual property as well as broader dimensions of cultural creativity.

Intercultural Communication in the Workplace

As a global citizen, an understanding of cultural difference and ability to communicate effectively with diverse communities is critical for work in both local and international settings.

International Relations and Global Affairs for Citizens

This course offers an accessible introduction to international relations for engaged citizens and community learners. You will explore core concepts including states, sovereignty, power, diplomacy, conflict, cooperation, international law, the United Nations, global governance and foreign policy.

Introduction to Canadian Contemporary Issues

An introduction to contemporary issues in Canadian society including: politics, economic and social structures, cultural and arts policy, science and technology, multiculturalism, bilingualism, Indigenous issues and gender issues.

Introduction to Canadian Culture

An introduction to the multidisciplinary study of cultural structures and expression in Canada, including such forms as literature, fine arts, mass media and communications.

Introduction to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

This course supports learners in cultivating an equity lens and developing practical strategies and tools to challenge systemic and organizational barriers to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Through case studies, analysis and self-reflection, learners explore core concepts, frameworks and contestations of EDI, including intersectionality, accessibility, accountability, impacts of oppression, power dynamics, resistance, and reconciliation.

Introduction to Intercultural Studies

An interdisciplinary exploration of theory and practice in the field of intercultural studies. Focuses on understanding the application of intercultural concepts and theories to effect social change.

Photo of arms wrapping around a tree to hug it.

Introduction to the Human Dimensions of Climate Change

This course examines a range of understandings of and approaches to addressing climate change. It explores what kind of problems climate change poses; what toolkits are needed to develop and engage it effectively; how to collaborate across diverse priorities in relation to it; and what scales and kinds of actions should be prioritized.

Issues and Ideas in Canadian Environmentalism

Learn how Canada's environment has shaped our culture and position in the global environmental movement while exploring current issues in resource exploitation and environmental justice.

James Bay: History, Architecture and People

John Adams will cover a wide range of this history in his talk illustrated by maps, paintings and photographs.

Karma and the Power to Change

Often when things go wrong we look for someone to blame or we conclude that life is unfair. This may lead to feelings of resentment, guilt or shame. In this course, you will examine the perspective of the Buddhist concept of karma, which holds that our intentions are the causes and our experiences are the effects.

Know Your Mind, Heal Your Life

In this four-part course, we will explore the extraordinary nature of the mind, and the way in which it is open, light and infinitely flexible.

Colourful street art carpet featuring film festival designs and text, including ‘Festival de Cine Morelia,’ symbolizing Latin American cinema and cultural celebration.

Latin America Through Contemporary Film: Mexico, Guatemala and Cuba

Learn about Latin American culture, society, history and politics through the analysis of films made since the year 2000. We will explore the works of some key filmmakers such as Alfonso Cuarón, Guillermo del Toro, Alejandro González Iñárritu, Tomás Gutiérrez Alea, Jayro Bustamente, and Rodrigo and Sebastián Barriuso. Some reference to Spanish culture and directors like Pedro Almodóvar and Icíar Bollaín will also be included.

Close-up of vintage film reels and strips of 35mm film, symbolizing cinematic storytelling and the study of Latin American culture through contemporary movies.

Latin America Through Contemporary Film: Peru, Chile and Argentina

Learn about Latin American culture, society, history and politics through the analysis of films made since the year 2000. We will explore the works of some key filmmakers such as Pablo Larraín, and Sebastián Lelio, Lucrecia Martel, Damián Szifron, Pablo Trapero and Andrés Wood.

Open antique book showing the title page of Machiavelli’s ‘The Prince’ alongside an engraved portrait, symbolizing historical study of political power and strategy.

Lies, Cunning and Control: Machiavelli and the Art of Power

Examine Machiavelli’s ‘The Prince’ and its enduring impact on leadership, ethics, and governance, exploring how cunning and control shaped political thought and continue to influence modern strategies.

Managing Border Disputes

Explore border disputes: types, origins, and resolution options. Learn to minimize friction between communities while seeking lasting settlements.

Managing Borders and Migration

In this course you will learn about the various ways that international actors and states manage the flow of people across international borders.

Managing Intellectual Property

Explores strategies, processes, and frameworks for obtaining, retaining, assigning, and licensing selected Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) including entertainment related IPRs in music and film.

Meditation for a Peaceful Heart

The key to a happy life is learning to reside in a peaceful heart. This is something we can all learn to do.

Modern Border Security Management

Border security management is a complex multiplayer effort grounded in vertical/horizontal, domestic/international, and public/private partnerships.

Navigating Contemporary Travel

Explore the current landscape of global travel and navigate topics such as recent changes in travel infrastructure, the search for authentic intercultural experiences, and the question of ethical tourism.

A vintage Russian tzar family photo postcard of 1900s

Nicholas II and the Fall of Imperial Russia

This course examines the life and rule of Nicholas II, the last tsar of the Romanov dynasty, and the dramatic collapse of Imperial Russia in the early twentieth century.

Not Just a Little Bit of Olde England

For years Victoria had the reputation for being so very English. Local historian John Adams will sort fact from fiction and show that there was a lot more diversity in the city than tourism promoters, beginning in the 1920s, wanted us to believe.

Organizational Diversity and Inclusion

Learn to identify the barriers to diversity and inclusion in organizations, and develop the knowledge and skills to build respectful, equitable, and innovative workplaces.

A group of diverse hands reaching up to hold a globe against a clear blue sky.

Organizing for Transformative Change

This course teaches concepts and skills for organizing transformational change, including intersectional analysis, power mapping, alliance-building, and effective communication through student-led projects and direct learning from Canadian organizers.

Patent Law

A study of the principles and practical implications of patent protection in Canada. Discussions include the fundamental concepts of patentability, validity, infringement, and commercial exploitation of patentable technology, including pharmaceutical and biotechnological product and process protection.

Politics and Religion: A Sign of the Times

The intersection between politics and religion is a striking characteristic throughout contemporary global affairs, especially for acculturated observers and the narrative that church and state can be held apart.

Photo of hands holding an illustrated sphere with various environmental symbols in it.

Politics, Policies and Planning for Climate Action

This course uses British Columbia as a case study to introduce the policy and political contexts that shape climate action across scales from local to global, including relevant institutional and governance innovations.

Radical Contentment: How to Live Life Fully in the Moment

This course explores creating your ideal life now, using Buddha’s teachings on karma, impermanence, and mind transformation.

Reaching Self Knowledge: Socrates and the Quest for Wisdom

Join us in examining the beginning of Socratic philosophy and why it continues to be important to reflect on what it means to be human and the quest for wisdom.

ReconciliACTIONS: Ten Years After the TRC Report

Learn about some initiatives, projects, developments, and other ways in which we, as a society, have engaged with some of the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Report published in 2015.

llustration of a hand holding a strainer filtering words like facts, lies, news, and truth, symbolizing critical thinking and data literacy skills.

Refuse to be Misled: Data Literacy in Everyday Life

In a world filled with headlines, polls, and health claims, how can we tell what is true? This course will explore how numbers and data are used - and misused - in everyday life. Using real-world examples, we will uncover tricks used to distort information, learn to interpret common charts and graphics, and discover simple, hands-on tools to question the claims we encounter. No math background required - just curiosity.

Collection of eight religious symbols in gray textured style representing diverse world faiths: Star of David (Judaism), Christian cross, crescent and star (Islam), Baháʼí nine-pointed star, Om symbol (Hinduism), Jain hand, dharma wheel (Buddhism), and Khanda (Sikhism).

Religion and Identity in 21st Century North America

The majority view in the sociological study of religion used to be that religion was on its way out in the Global North. While there were some notable holdouts, like the United States, other nations like Canada, Denmark, and France were becoming increasingly secular. Yet, today, while there has been a decline in some religious organizations, others are flourishing.

Abandoned red-brick school building with broken windows and boarded doors, representing a former residential school and the legacy of colonial policies in Canada.

Residential School Denialism

This course will explore how residential school denialism manifests in Canadian society today and why attending to these patterns is crucial to honoring Survivors’ truths and advancing meaningful reconciliation.

Depiction of artwork - "Raven's teachings" Tsaqwasupp. A. I. Thompson 03/02

Responsibilities to Coastal Indigenous Peoples and Lands

This introductory survey course centers local lands and Coast Salish protocols to highlight relationships of land, water and people, including what it means to be a good guest here.

Photo of castle in Rockland neighbourhood.

Rockland: History, Architecture and People

The Rockland neighbourhood and its homes and families.

A close-up shot focuses on clasped hands of diverse individuals around a dining table, suggesting a moment of shared ritual or prayer. The soft lighting and blurred background with a meal emphasize a sense of community and connection, central to the themes of ritual, religion, and culture.

Sacred Meals: Ritual, Religion, and Cultural

Explore how food connects to faith, ritual and meaning in this reflective course on the sacred and symbolic role of meals across cultures and beliefs.

Saint Petersburg: Power, Culture and Memory

Can a single city capture the soul of a nation? In this course, you will explore the city’s dramatic history—from its founding by Peter the Great to its role in revolution, war, and modern identity.

Savouring the Screen: Food Culture in Chinese Cinema

Explore the rich landscape of Chinese culture through the sensory lens of cinema and cuisine. Investigate how filmmakers use cooking and dining to tell stories about family dynamics, social change and personal identity.

Shakespeare and Politics

Shakespeare is considered by many as the greatest poet, dramatist and playwright of all time. Less well-known is Shakespeare as a political thinker, expressed through his tragic and comedic characters. By examining his work through this lens, we gain a sense of the human condition, his characters, and their actions.

Antique photo of the Victoria inner harbour area.

Sir James Douglas: A New Look at a Key Figure in British Columbia

John Adams' presentation explores Sir James Douglas, the "Father of British Columbia," examining his complex legacy, including his mixed-race origins and interactions with Indigenous Peoples.

How to Change the World: Grassroots Organizations in Canada

This course explores the history, achievements and possibilities inherent in grassroots organizations in Canada, using provocative examples from across the country (Greenpeace, The Land Conservancy, Our Community Health Initiative, Idle No More) but with a focus on British Columbia movements.

Drone view of the Cheakamus river. White water coursing through a winding river channel nestled between lush evergreen forest.

Special Topics: Psychology of Transformative Climate Action

This course explores the psychological dimensions of climate action at individual, collective and systemic levels. It equips students with the tools to critically evaluate psychological strategies, collaborate across disciplines and cultivate a hopeful, inclusive approach to climate solutions.

Teaching the Holocaust

Developed in collaboration with leading Holocaust educators and researchers, this course is tailored for pre-service and in-service teachers preparing to integrate Holocaust education into their curriculum. See the program page for complete details.

Cover art from the graphic novel, "But I Live: Three Stories of Child Survivors of the Holocaust (2022)" Drawing of 2 brothers holding rabbits in a dark forest. Artwork by Gilad Seliktar

Teaching the Holocaust: Exploring Additional Perspectives

Open to all educators, this workshop can be taken as a standalone learning opportunity or as part of the Micro-certificate in Teaching the Holocaust. The full-day, in-person event offers a unique opportunity to learn from leading Holocaust educators, network with peers and deepen your understanding of Holocaust education.

Close-up of hands holding an open book with sunlight casting shadows on the pages, symbolizing the immersive experience of reading and literary appreciation.

The Art of Reading

This course investigates the classical and foundational pieces of writing that support the intellectual motivation to read, the changing art of the practice, and the benefits to be gained. As Francis Bacon once remarked, “read not to contradict and confute, nor to believe and take for granted, nor to find talk and discourse, but to weigh and consider.

Buddha stone figure sitting on the seashore in front of the slightly rough sea

The Buddhist Mind of Clarity and Wisdom

Uncover Buddhist insights on mind and the world around us to end confusion. Gain wisdom for true freedom from suffering and its causes.

a collection of moss-covered Jizo statues, found at a Buddhist temple or shrine, at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple in Kyoto, Japan. Photo credit: Jordy Meow

The Buddhist Way of Gratitude and Joy

Cultivate joy & inner peace with Buddhist practices. Deepen gratitude, appreciate life's potential and sustain a warm heart amidst adversity.

The Colonial Life of Drugs - Empire and the Politics of Consciousness

Examine the modern history of psychoactive substances and prohibition from colonial expansion to today’s war on drugs.

Historic black-and-white illustration of Ottoman-era architecture along a waterfront with domes, minarets, and boats, representing the empire’s grandeur before its fall.

The End of the Ottoman Empire and Making of the Modern Middle East

This course examines the Ottoman Empire's dissolution after World War I and its lasting global impact. It explores how modern Middle Eastern nations, conflicts and dynamics, from Turkey's neo-Ottoman policies to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, trace back to this pivotal historical transformation.

The History of Things that Go Bump in the Night

Delve into the shadows of the imagination in this social and cultural history of the supernatural in Europe from the ancient Celts to the 19th century.

Historic illustration of a traditional Scottish kitchen with a hearth, hanging pot over an open fire, and shelves of cookware, representing foodways in the Highlands and Islands.

The History of Women’s Foodways in Scotland’s Highlands and Islands

This course explores foodways of non-gentry class Gaelic-speaking women living in Scotland’s western Highlands and Islands during the long 19th century. Women’s roles in coastal communities—including feisty Highland innkeepers and their interconnected kitchen landscape—will be explored along with traditional food practices, folklore, and the Gaelic Otherworld.

The Many Faces of Dracula

Discover the mysteries behind the most popular literary character ever created—Dracula. Take a closer look at Bram Stoker's 1897 novel and the many strange stories surrounding its creation.

The Neuroscience of Aging

In this session Dr. Krigolson will discuss how the brain grows from conception to birth and then how it ages throughout the lifespan.

Illustration of hands depositing ballots into polling box

The Political Spectrum

This course will help you gain a clear and concise understanding of the differences between the left wing, right wing, and centralist political orientations.

Colourful abstract silhouettes of people with vibrant speech bubbles above them, symbolizing cross-cultural communication and diverse perspectives in relationships.

The Psychology of Relationships Across Cultures

We offer a course on the psychology of relationships across cultures. Learn how cultural differences influence communication, values, and interpersonal dynamics, and gain insights into building meaningful connections in diverse social and professional contexts.

The Social Construction of Borders

Borders help to define citizenship and to exclude the unwelcome and Other. But what of culture? Does cultural identity stop (or start) at the border?

Thinking About Friendship with Michel de Montaigne

Come to a careful appreciation of two of Montaigne’s most charming essays, Friendship and Three Kinds of Association.

Trade and Customs Borders

In this course you will learn about the regulatory environment of trading networks and how they functionally redesign borders and influence customs policies and practices.

Photo of a green energy windmill juxtaposed with industry smoke towers.

Transformative Change

This course introduces skills needed to support planning and decision-making about climate action under conditions of uncertainty, with particular attention to assessing sites for and implications of specific interventions.

Transforming Justice through Collective Care

This talk will invite the audience to think about justice as accomplished in relationships and generated in communities. We will consider the transformative potential of community-engaged work, and how working in partnership with people exiting prison helps to create a more just world built on collective care.

Two senior hikers with backpacks sitting on wooden bench overlooking peaceful countryside at golden hour sunrise, enjoying nature and companionship while taking a mindful break during outdoor adventure, representing wellness and life fulfillment.

Turn Your Life in the Direction of Happiness

Through recognizing the kindness of others, we can strengthen our relationships and develop authentic love, which makes our mind peaceful all the time. This simple but powerful practice is designed to help us gain joyful experience and confidence in our daily life.

Conceptual image of a road rising into the sky with silhouettes of people walking and birds flying upward, symbolizing migration, movement, and global displacement.

Understanding the Global Migrant Crisis

This course explores the global migrant crisis through stories, case studies, and discussion. Discover why people move across borders—war, climate change, economic and political pressures—and consider how power, colonial history and inequality shape these journeys.

Unravelling Modern Democracy Through Rousseau’s Social Contract

In 1762, few governments were democratic, so when Rousseau’s The Social Contract exploded on the scene, it became one of the most influential books ever written, having a major impact on the French and American Revolutions. While his ideas were foundational to modern democracy, his proposal that governments stifle individual voices for the sake of the collective remains deeply controversial.

A totem pole in front of the Victoria, BC Parliament buildings

Unsettling BC History

Explore how early BC textbooks shaped historical narratives and uncover how re-reading them can foster truth-telling and stronger Indigenous-settler relations.

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Using Artificial Intelligence for Your Life and Work

Unlock AI's potential with this course covering ChatGPT and DALL·E 3. Learn to use AI for emails, reports, artwork, tutoring, and daily tasks.

Victoria in the 1960s: a Decade of Major Growth and Change

The decade of the 1960s was a pivotal time in Victoria. High rise apartments were sprouting up in James Bay. The first malls were being built in suburban areas. Heritage preservation projects started with Centennial Square and Bastion Square. In this presentation, you will hear from historian John Adams for an illustrated talk about the fascinating 1960s in Victoria.

Victoria's Colonial Homes and Families

Historian John Adams explores the stories of colonial families in Victoria, their Indigenous and European roots, and their historic homes.

Victorian Cities of the Dead

Some of BC’s most impressive 19th century cemeteries are located in Victoria, and instructor John Adams knows them intimately.

Victoria's Historic Cemeteries

Presented by John Adams, a founding member of the Old Cemeteries Society and author of Historic Guide to Ross Bay Cemetery, you won’t want to miss this journey through rural country churchyards, small family plots, suburban burial parks, and hidden urban cemeteries.

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