Based in the stunningly beautiful Fraser Valley of British Columbia, the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is one of Canada’s most dynamic and innovative public universities. With a student body of approximately 15,000, UFV has grown from a small community college into a respected degree-granting institution, driven by its mission to provide accessible, hands-on education that is powerfully connected to the communities it serves.
UFV’s story is one of extraordinary grassroots advocacy. Established in 1974 as Fraser Valley College, the institution was born after more than a decade of determined lobbying by local residents who envisioned a post-secondary option closer to home. The relentless efforts of community members turned a kitchen-table conversation into a province-wide movement that culminated in the passing of the “Bill 71” University Act. It was designated a university-college in 1991 and began developing its third- and fourth-year programming, before proudly achieving full university status and becoming the University of the Fraser Valley in 2008.
Today, UFV has campuses in Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Mission, Hope, Agassiz, and a growing presence in Chandigarh, India. The main Abbotsford campus, set on 26 hectares, features a major student union building, a large library, and numerous research facilities, while the purpose-built Chilliwack campus at Canada Education Park is home to its acclaimed trades and technology programs. Buy fake Canada diploma online.
Academically, UFV is renowned for its “laddering” approach, which allows students to use a one-year certificate or two-year diploma as a stepping stone to a full bachelor’s degree. With a 96% student satisfaction rate, it is widely considered one of BC’s top universities. UFV offers more than 100 programs across eight faculties, including business, the sciences, health sciences, media and arts, and professional studies. It is particularly recognized for its nationally-renowned criminology and criminal justice programs and the flight training program at the Abbotsford International Airport. The university also prioritizes work-integrated learning through numerous co-op education options, giving students the chance to combine classroom theory with paid, real-world experience.
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Community and school spirit are central to the UFV experience. Home to the UFV Cascades, the university fields 20 athletic teams in U Sports competition. The Campus Connector Shuttle service bridges the gap between the Abbotsford and Chilliwack campuses for students and faculty, and in 2025 the SUS Book Club and campus recreation activities continue to draw crowds for drop-in basketball, volleyball, and indoor soccer. Beyond sports, over 90 annual student life events—from performing arts to outdoor treks and volunteering opportunities—ensure every student can find their place.
True to its roots, UFV’s research has a tangible local impact, particularly through its Food and Agriculture Institute and the cutting-edge BERRI (Berry Environmental Resilience Research & Innovation) Lab, where undergraduate students lead studies on global food security and agri-tech innovation with funding from the Canadian government.
At the heart of this vibrant community is a motto that defines its mission: *Iyaqáwtxw*, meaning “house of transformation” in the Halq’eméylem language of the Stó:lō people. For any student seeking a supportive, engaged, and career-focused education, the University of the Fraser Valley offers an authentically transformative experience.