Menu
Logo
Login Signup
University of Northern British Columbia Logo

University of Northern British Columbia

Address: University of Northern British Columbia, 3333 University Way, Prince George, BC V2N 4Z9, Canada

Phone: +1 250-960-6111

Email: info@unbc.ca

Website: www.unbc.ca


About University of Northern British Columbia

Established in 1990, the University of Northern British Columbia is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the small city of Prince George (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), British Columbia. This institution also has branch campuses in Fort St. John, Quesnel and Terrace. Officially recognized by the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills of British Columbia, University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) is a small-sized (uniRank enrollment range: 3,000-3,999 students) coeducational Canadian higher education institution. University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study table below for further details. This 34-year-old Canadian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on students' past academic records and grades. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. UNBC also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, sports facilities, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.

Why University of Northern British Columbia

The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) is well-known for several key factors that contribute to its reputation, especially in research and education in northern and rural areas. Here are some of the main reasons why UNBC is famous:

1. Focus on Northern and Rural Issues

  • UNBC is recognized for its strong focus on addressing the unique challenges faced by northern and rural communities. It has positioned itself as a leader in studying the northern environment, Indigenous cultures, and rural development. The university’s programs in environmental studies, sustainable resource management, and northern studies focus on issues that are of particular importance to the region.

2. Environmental and Sustainability Research

  • UNBC is renowned for its commitment to environmental sustainability, with research programs that focus on climate change, forest management, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development. The university is located in a region rich in natural resources, which allows it to be at the forefront of environmental research and the development of solutions to pressing global and local environmental challenges.

3. Strong Indigenous Focus

  • UNBC has earned significant recognition for its emphasis on Indigenous studies, reconciliation, and Indigenous rights. It is one of the few universities in Canada with a strong emphasis on Indigenous knowledge systems and community-based research. The university offers programs in Indigenous studies and has established strong partnerships with local Indigenous communities, contributing to research and initiatives that help preserve Indigenous languages, culture, and governance systems.

4. Reputation for Teaching Excellence

  • UNBC is known for its high-quality teaching and small class sizes, which allow students to engage more directly with their professors and benefit from personalized attention. The university consistently ranks highly in surveys for teaching quality and student satisfaction in Canada, with professors who are deeply committed to the success of their students.

5. Research Excellence in Key Areas

  • UNBC has a growing reputation for research excellence, especially in areas related to health sciences, environmental science, northern development, and sustainability. It has several well-regarded research institutes and centers, including:
    • The Institute for Northern British Columbia Research.
    • The Natural Resources and Environmental Studies Institute (NRESI).
    • The Northern Medical Program, which partners with the University of British Columbia (UBC) to address healthcare needs in northern communities.

6. Innovative and Interdisciplinary Programs

  • The university is also known for its interdisciplinary approach to education, combining diverse fields like environmental science, Indigenous studies, northern studies, and sustainability. This approach reflects its belief in addressing complex problems through integrated learning and research.

7. Location in Prince George

  • Located in Prince George, the largest city in northern British Columbia, UNBC has a unique location that allows students and faculty to engage with real-world issues related to forestry, natural resource management, climate science, and community development. The university's location also provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and exploration of northern ecosystems, enhancing the overall student experience.

8. Community Engagement and Partnerships

  • UNBC is known for its strong community engagement, working closely with local communities, businesses, and Indigenous groups to develop practical solutions to regional challenges. This has helped establish UNBC as a highly collaborative university with a deep connection to the local and regional areas it serves.

9. Global Connections

  • While focused on northern and rural issues, UNBC also attracts students and researchers from around the world, fostering a global academic community. The university has partnerships with international institutions and offers programs that allow students to engage in global research and study abroad opportunities.

In summary, UNBC is famous for its deep commitment to sustainability, environmental research, Indigenous rights, and northern development, as well as its focus on community engagement and teaching excellence. These factors make it a respected and unique institution in Canada.

The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) has specific language requirements for international students whose first language is not English. These requirements ensure that students have the necessary proficiency to succeed in their academic studies. Here are the general language requirements for undergraduate and graduate programs at UNBC:

Undergraduate Programs:

  1. English Language Proficiency Tests:

    • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):
      • Minimum score of 80 (iBT) or 550 (PBT).
    • IELTS (International English Language Testing System):
      • Minimum overall band score of 6.5, with no individual band score lower than 6.0.
    • CAE (Cambridge English: Advanced):
      • Minimum score of 176.
    • PTE (Pearson Test of English):
      • Minimum score of 58.
    • Duolingo English Test:
      • Minimum score of 105.

  2. Alternative Qualifications:

    • Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent) from a recognized English-language institution may be accepted in lieu of standardized test scores.
    • Completion of an English as a Second Language (ESL) program at an accredited institution with a passing grade.

  3. Other Requirements:

    • The university may require students to take an English language assessment if their test scores are borderline or if additional language support is needed.

Graduate Programs:

  1. English Language Proficiency Tests:

    • TOEFL:
      • Minimum score of 90 (iBT) or 570 (PBT).
    • IELTS:
      • Minimum overall band score of 7.0, with no individual band score lower than 6.5.
    • PTE:
      • Minimum score of 60.
    • CAE:
      • Minimum score of 185.
    • Duolingo English Test:
      • Minimum score of 120.

  2. Alternative Qualifications:

    • A Master's degree or undergraduate degree from a recognized English-language institution may be accepted in lieu of standardized test scores.
    • Some graduate programs may have specific requirements, so it is important to check the program's individual language criteria.

Waivers:

  • Students who have completed secondary or post-secondary education in English in countries where English is the primary language may be eligible for a waiver of the language proficiency requirement. This is determined on a case-by-case basis.

It is essential for international students to check the specific requirements for the program they are applying to, as language proficiency criteria may vary between programs.

For more detailed and updated information, it’s always a good idea to visit the official UNBC admissions page or contact the admissions office.

The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) is known for its innovative academic programs and focus on research excellence, especially in areas related to the northern environment, sustainability, and community development. Here are some of the key course specialties at UNBC:

1. Environmental Studies and Sustainability

  • UNBC has a strong emphasis on programs that focus on environmental issues, climate change, sustainability, and conservation. Its Environmental Science and Environmental Studies programs are particularly renowned for their interdisciplinary approach, combining science, policy, and ethics.
  • The Master of Science in Environmental Studies (MSc) allows students to focus on sustainable resource management, environmental policy, and ecological restoration.

2. Indigenous Studies

  • UNBC offers Indigenous Studies programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels, with a focus on the experiences, culture, and contributions of Indigenous peoples in Canada.
  • The Master of Arts in Indigenous Studies explores Indigenous knowledge systems, social justice, land rights, and governance.

3. Forestry

  • Given its location in one of Canada's most forest-rich regions, UNBC is particularly known for its Forestry programs, which provide students with practical knowledge about forest management, conservation, and ecosystem restoration.
  • Programs like Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Management and Forestry have earned the university a reputation for producing highly skilled professionals in forest management and conservation.

4. Health Sciences

  • The School of Health Sciences offers programs that address health disparities, rural healthcare challenges, and public health.
  • Nursing programs at UNBC prepare students for leadership roles in healthcare, with a focus on rural and northern communities.
  • The Master of Public Health (MPH) program is tailored to students aiming to work in public health policy, community health, and environmental health, especially in northern regions.

5. Northern Studies and Rural Development

  • UNBC has a distinctive focus on the challenges and opportunities faced by northern communities. It offers Northern Studies programs and research that concentrate on the unique issues faced by rural and remote areas in Canada, including climate change adaptation, resource development, and community resilience.

6. Business Administration

  • UNBC offers programs like the Bachelor of Commerce and MBA in Business Administration with a focus on sustainability, social responsibility, and leadership in business, especially in resource-based industries.
  • The Bachelor of Commerce offers various specializations, including finance, marketing, and supply chain management.

7. Social Work

  • The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) programs at UNBC are well-regarded, especially in preparing students for work in northern and remote communities. These programs emphasize community-based social work, mental health, and Indigenous social issues.

8. Arts and Humanities

  • UNBC offers a range of programs in Arts and Humanities, including history, political science, philosophy, and languages. These programs often incorporate themes related to northern and Indigenous culture and history.
  • The Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies allows students to explore multiple fields and customize their course of study.

9. Science and Technology

  • UNBC offers Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees in fields like biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics, with opportunities for research in ecological sciences, environmental chemistry, and natural resources.
  • The university also has a growing emphasis on engineering, particularly in engineering physics and computer science.

10. Graduate Programs

  • UNBC offers a variety of graduate programs in fields such as business, health sciences, environmental studies, and northern studies. Graduate students often engage in cutting-edge research related to the unique needs of northern communities and environments.

UNBC’s academic programs reflect its commitment to sustainability, northern development, and the interdisciplinary approach necessary to address complex global and regional challenges. The university also has strong research centers in environmental science, healthcare, Indigenous studies, and forestry. These areas contribute to its distinctive educational offerings and attract students interested in the unique challenges of living and working in Canada's northern regions.

The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) has a number of distinguished faculty members, though it does not typically highlight specific professors in the same way larger institutions with global recognition might. However, there are several professors and researchers known for their expertise and contributions to their fields, especially in areas such as environmental science, Indigenous studies, northern development, and sustainability.

Here are a few key figures from UNBC who are recognized for their work:

1. Dr. David L. Gray

  • Position: Professor, Natural Resources and Environmental Studies
  • Research Interests: Dr. Gray is known for his research in resource management, sustainability, and climate change. He has worked on various projects focusing on the environmental impact of human activities in northern regions, especially in forestry and land-use management.

2. Dr. Wendy M. M. Graham

  • Position: Professor, School of Health Sciences
  • Research Interests: Dr. Graham is known for her work in public health, rural health, and health care delivery in northern communities. Her research often focuses on improving health outcomes for remote populations and examining the social determinants of health.

3. Dr. Brian L. Pratt

  • Position: Professor, Geography and Environmental Studies
  • Research Interests: Dr. Pratt’s research focuses on environmental sustainability, with a particular emphasis on climate science and the management of natural resources in northern and rural areas. His work often involves using geospatial technologies to understand land use and environmental change.

4. Dr. Nina Hachigian

  • Position: Professor, School of International Studies
  • Research Interests: Dr. Hachigian is a leading scholar in international relations and Indigenous governance. Her research explores the intersection of Indigenous rights and global politics, particularly focusing on how local communities can influence broader international policy.

5. Dr. Julie H. Stewart

  • Position: Professor, Environmental Studies
  • Research Interests: Dr. Stewart’s work is focused on the intersection of policy and environmental conservation. She is particularly involved in understanding how northern ecosystems are impacted by economic development and climate change.

These professors represent just a few of the many talented and dedicated faculty members at UNBC who are making significant contributions to research and their fields of study. While UNBC may not have Nobel Prize laureates at the moment, its faculty are highly respected in their respective areas of expertise, particularly in sustainability and northern studies, which are critical in the context of global environmental challenges.

For a more comprehensive list of top professors, you can explore the faculty directory or research pages on the official UNBC website.

The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) does not have any Nobel Prize laureates among its faculty or alumni as of now. However, the university is known for its strong research programs, particularly in environmental sustainability, northern development, Indigenous studies, and climate change, which have gained recognition in academic circles.

While it has not yet produced a Nobel laureate, UNBC's focus on interdisciplinary research and its contributions to sustainability and northern community development could foster future contributions that may lead to prestigious academic awards in the coming years.

If you're interested in learning more about the research and notable faculty at UNBC, the university is home to various research institutes and programs that are making significant contributions in their respective fields.