Innovative research with real-world impact
Research at VCC is rooted in real-world impact. Our applied research explores pressing questions in teaching, health, accessibility, and more. Faculty and staff pursue inquiry that improves lives, strengthens industries, and reflects the diverse communities we serve.
Research ethics approval at VCC
The Research Ethics Board (REB) is responsible for ensuring that any research involving humans meets the highest ethical standards. If you have questions about applying for research ethics approval, please contact [email protected] for more information.
The course-based research ethics application may be used for courses where students carry out projects of a similar scope under supervision of an instructor. In these cases, the students do not need to apply for individual REB approval. One application covers all eligible projects with human participants, as long as they fit within the parameters of the course-based application and the assignment is described in the class syllabus.
Studies that involve no more risk to participants than they would encounter in their everyday lives are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Please submit your application and all attachments to the REB two to three weeks before your data collection start date.
For applicants submitting a study that involves more risk than participants would encounter in their everyday lives, please contact the REB Chair and provide all materials two to three weeks in advance of the meeting dates below to ensure sufficient time for a full board review:
- September 17, 2026
- October 15, 2026
- November 19, 2026
Research Funding
The VCC Research Fund (VRF) assists employees in building the skills and abilities to engage in high quality research at our institution. This year, a total of $4500 is available. Individuals may apply for any amount, up to $4500. The application deadline is October 14, 2026.
The funds are intended to offset some of the costs associated with research engagement. Research activity may involve any stage of a project beyond primary research and data collection, including literature review, creation of data collection tools such as surveys, preparation of proposals and grant applications, activities related to publishing, preparing data sets for deposit, and knowledge mobilization.
More information about eligibility and use of the funds can be found on the Research Fund Application form.
Research Events
Teaching, Learning & Research Symposium
The VCC Teaching, Learning and Research Symposium provides an opportunity for educators to share best practices, research findings, and innovative ideas from post-secondary education.
VCC Student Showcase
The annual showcase offers a glimpse into student learning and achievement at VCC from across the college.
In past years, the event has included student lightning presentations and digital posters from Dental Hygiene, Early Childhood Education, Hospitality Management, BSN Nursing, Fashion Art and Design, and Auto Collision.
See left 2026 Student Showcase winners Katie Munroe, Tiana Glennon, Teresa Yuh, Donya Roshan (Dental Hygiene department).
Research Output
Employee research and exemplary student work is preserved in the VCC Digital Repository. VCC researchers also have access to Borealis for the publication of research data sets, supporting the discoverability, sharing and preservation of research.
