The University of Victoria's

Restoration of Natural Systems Program

UVic Continuing Education in partnership with the School of Environmental Studies

The bridge to a healthier ecological future

The Restoration of Natural Systems Program (RNS) at UVic is a dynamic, interdisciplinary credit diploma program that provides comprehensive knowledge and skills to those interested in the rapidly emerging field of ecological restoration. The program combines the applied, technical aspects of a continuing education degree with the academic resources and philosophy of the School of Environmental Studies into a unique training experience for emerging practitioners. Knowing where we are headed, from an ecological standpoint, requires a multi-faceted understanding of environmental impacts and recovery strategies. The RNS program provides a bridge that connects this knowledge with the practical skills needed to solve complex restoration issues. The program’s holistic approach will empower you, as someone who is passionate about the environment, to make a difference in how we connect with the natural world.

Graduates of the Program should be able to:
  1. Design and evaluate restoration projects under a broad range of conditions and using interdisciplinary expertise
  2. Use scientifically rigorous approaches and science-based methodologies in restoration projects
  3. Achieve and maintain an understanding of modern restoration practice through interpreting technical reports, scientific publications, and professional networking
  4. Use current mapping and sampling technologies and understand modern technical advances in restoration implementation
  5. Identify and understand the issues, decisions, and policies governing restoration at multiple scales, from local to international
  6. Solve problems encountered in implementing restoration projects including dispute resolution, conducting consultative processes, and building consensus
  7. Incorporate traditional ecological knowledge in restoration planning where appropriate
  8. Communicate knowledge about restoration projects to the wider public

On this site, you will find resources for current students, information on community-engaged restoration activities within the program, and a celebration of our community partnerships. For detailed information on admission, course schedules, and program requirements, see the RNS Homepage.

News and events

One of our local community partners - the Greater Victoria Naturehood - has recently completed the first major stages of shoreline restoration at Kitty Islet in Oak Bay. The beautiful little spot is one of 30 eBird hotspots in Victoria Harbour Migratory Bird Sanctuary, and was covered in a blanket of invasive exotic species. Lead and fueled by local volunteers, restoration efforts have revealed a hauntingly beautiful willow patch, with trees gnarled and twisted by time and by nature.

Find more photos and details from their blog post.
Kitty Islet Willows after the weight of English Ivy was removed.
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