faq's (services)
- faq's (services)
- forms
How can I get past transcripts, tax forms or other documents?
These items are available by printing and completing our 'Request for Services' form. Submit this form with the appropriate fees. We accept money orders or bank drafts ONLY.
Can I have students help me with my photographic or journalism/photojournalism needs? (i.e. I would like a photographer for my wedding.)
The Western Academy provides a service to the public which we call 'Job Postings.' Students have a variety of skills and progress throughout the year. These requests are posted and students are free to respond if they feel they have the skills to complete the job. Negotiations are between the student and the client. The Academy does not get involved in this process nor guarantee or warrant any job accepted by a student..
If I want to sell something related to photography, how do I go about it?
Please click on our 'For Purchase or To Sell' form to submit an ad for posting.
What programs are available?
We offer The Professional Photography Program (PP), The Journalism and Photojournalism Program (Written Image) (WI) and the Advanced Visual Communications Program (AVC). Please go to our programs page for further detailed information.
What are the entrance requirements?
For the Professional Photography and Journalism and Photojournalism programs, grade 12 graduation or Mature student status (over 19 years of age) is the fundamental requirement for admission. Quebec Students Only (BC grade 12 equivalence = 1st year CEGEP English 603 Series). You do not require a portfolio or previous experience.
To view entrance requirements for Advanced Visual Communications, Please go to the Advanced Visual Communications calendar. For general information on the Academy please refer to our general calendar.
How much is the tuition for the programs?
Advanced Visual Communications $11,750.00
Professional Photography $14,500.00
Journalism and Photojournalism (Written Image) $14,500.00
What other costs are there?
Damage Deposit: A $200.00 damage deposit payable to the Western Academy is required at the beginning of the program. The deposit ensures student responsibility and will only be used if damages to school equipment or facilities are incurred. This deposit is partially refundable upon completion of the program.
File Management Fee: Students will pay a $20.00 file management fee.
How do I apply?
Please view the program calendar in which you are interested. On this web site you will find an application form. Fill out this form, print it and submit along with your tuition deposit of $500.00.
Is Western Academy an accredited School?
We are registered and accredited with the (PCTIA) Private Career Training Institutions Agency. For further information please go to www.pctia.bc.ca or our general calendar
How do I contact someone from your school?
Please call Toll Free at 1-866-889-1235 ( Canada & U.S.A.) or Long Distance at 1[250] 383-1522 or E-mail us at wap-office@shaw.ca
How do I get a student loan?
In the general calendar, you will find each Province’s contact information, as well as a link to their student loans web site. Please note, courses and hours are designed to meet student loan criteria. You may require the following information for student loan purposes.
How do I pay for my course?
The Western Academy of Photography accepts payment (in Canadian Funds) in the form of cheques, money orders, certified cheques, cash as well as payments from student loans, passport to education and other funding agencies. In special circumstances, we will accept payment (by permission of the Managing Director) by paypal. This method may only be used for the tuition deposit.
How long are the programs?
All three programs are 10 months in length and start every September. They run inclusively until June, of the following year. Programs are equivalent to a 2-year diploma.
How many are accepted into the programs?
The AVC course accepts up to a maximum of 15 positions, the Professional Photography accepts up to a maximum of 46 positions, which is divided into two smaller groups of 23 and then further divided into smaller labs. The Written Image accepts up to a maximum of 18 positions. These courses fill up quite early and as a result, we do use a wait list.
What are the school hours?
Actual classes run from:
Monday - Friday, 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. & 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. PST
During the school year, the hours are as follows:
Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. PST & we are CLOSED Saturday & Sunday.
We observe all Statutory Holidays. After graduation, the hours will change. Please check our web site for posted summer hours.
What housing resources are available?
Western Academy recommends the following in your search for accommodation.
Is there parking at the school?
We are located in beautiful downtown Victoria, and as a result are limited to a 2-hour interval parking restriction.
Where do I obtain a Bus Pass?
Monthly bus passes may be obtained from most local grocery stores, convenience stores and gas stations. Please go to BC Transit for further information regarding costs, routes, zones ...etc.
Where is WAP located?
How do I arrange for a tour of the school?
To arrange for a tour of the facilities, please call the toll free number below, two weeks in advance. Please leave your name, phone number and email address with the program manager for the program you are interested in. They in turn will call and make arrangements with you directly.
What do we need the first day of school?
All you need is a pen, pencil and a pad of paper during orientation week, which begins the first day you attend school. Please do not bring your gear to school. You will meet with the staff and view facilities and equipment. Recommendations will be made to help you in purchasing cameras, tripods, light meters and other materials needed in the course.
All Programs are digital. Printer Friendly Frequently Asked Questions:
