Douglas College

ABOUT UNIVERSITY

Douglas College is the largest public college in British Columbia, Canada, with 7,958 full-time equivalent students in the 2023–24 academic year. Established in 1970, the college was named after Sir James Douglas, a former Governor of British Columbia. It offers a broad range of educational programs including bachelor’s degrees, university-transferable courses in arts and sciences, and career-oriented training in areas such as healthcare, human services, business, and the creative arts. In 1981, the college underwent a significant change when Kwantlen College separated from Douglas to form its own institution. One of the unique aspects of Douglas College is its coat of arms, which was unveiled on January 21, 2020, in celebration of the college's 50th anniversary. Designed by Coast Salish artist Carrielynn Victor, the emblem was the first in Canada to be entirely created by an Indigenous artist. It features a crowned heart, symbolizing both the Douglas family crest and the college's motto, “Do what you love.” The crown is made of cedar, a wood native to the region, and is topped by a raven, a bird that represents cleverness. Flanking the raven are two Douglas fir trees, linking the emblem to the college’s name. Beneath the shield are the words “Excellence, Knowledge, Passion” written in the Coast Salish language, acknowledging the college’s presence on First Nations territory. Douglas College operates primarily from two main campuses located in Metro Vancouver—one in New Westminster, which includes both Royal Avenue and Anvil Tower locations, and another in Coquitlam. Additionally, the college has a smaller Training Centre in Surrey. Through a combination of academic education, career training, and cultural awareness, Douglas College has established itself as a leading institution committed to both student development and community engagement in British Columbia.