University of British Columbia or UBC, established in 1908 and opened in 1915 is a public university in the Canadian state of British Columbia. This can be called a global center for learning, teaching, and research as it nurtures and inspires over 68,000 students worldwide. It is located in two places, one in Vancouver and the other in Kelowna in the Okanagan Valley. Vancouver location has their Robson square which is the extension of their campus, Learning Exchange, and their Center for Digital media. Most of the students, i.e 58,000 students study at this location while 11,000 students study at their Okanagan campus. Students from over 140 countries dream of taking admission here. It was ranked among top 100 public universities in the world by global ranking partners and the QS World University ranked it 47 for 2023. Times Higher Education (THE) ranked it 40 in the overall world universities and 13 in the Impact rankings for 2023. US News and World Reports ranked it 35 among the global universities for 2023. UBC has two regional bases in India and Hong Kong for local connections.
Download University of British Columbia Undergraduate Brochure and Graduate Brochure from here
Programmes At The University of British Columbia
UBC has about 254 undergraduate and 244 postgraduate programs in various fields, such as Business, Education, Science, Health and Medicine, Humanities, and Engineering. They provide clinical education to their Faculty of Medicine students at more than 80 training sites in Columbia.
Courses are delivered in four ways:
- In-person
- Online
- Hybrid
- Multi-access
Check Complete List of Undergraduate Programs and Graduate Programs At University of British Columbia.
| Undergraduate | Graduate |
|---|---|
| Applied Science (Year 1) | Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
| Applied Science (Years 2 to 5) | Master of Computer Science |
| Applied Science – Engineering | Master of Data Science |
| Arts | Master of Education |
| Commerce (Year 1) | Master of Engineering |
| Commerce (Years 2 to 4) | Master of Fine Arts |
| Commerce (Sauder School of Business) | Master of Health Administration |
| Computer Science | Master of Journalism |
| Dental Hygiene | Master of Laws (LLM) |
| Design in Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Urbanism | Master of Library and Information Studies |
| Environmental Design | Master of Music |
| Fine Arts | Master of Nursing |
| Forestry – Forest Operations | Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs |
| Forestry – Forest Science | Master of Science |
| Forestry – Natural Resources Conservation | Master of Social Work |
| Forestry – Resources Management | Master of Urban Design |
| Forestry – Wood Products Processing | Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) |
| International Economics | Doctor of Medicine (MD) |
| Kinesiology | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) |
| Land & Food Systems | |
| Media Studies | |
| Medical Laboratory Science | |
| Midwifery | |
| Music | |
| Nursing | |
| Pharmaceutical Sciences | |
| Science | |
| Social Work | |
| Urban Forestry | |
| Dentistry (DMD) | |
| Education (11 month) – BEd teacher education | |
| Education – NITEP | |
| Education: Diploma Program | |
| Entry to Practice Doctor of Pharmacy | |
| Law | |
| Medicine (MD) |
Fee Structure
Undergraduate Programs
You can find the standard timetable for all their programmes on their official website based on campus and session. Their courses and tuition fee are given in the table below.
Applied Science – Engineering
Here are some of the undergraduate Engineering programs offered by UBC’s Faculty of Applied Science:
- Chemical and Biological Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Engineering Physics
- Environmental Engineering
- Geological Engineering
- Integrated Engineering
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
These programs provide students with a strong foundation in fundamental engineering principles and practices, as well as specialized knowledge and skills in their chosen area of study. In addition to classroom instruction, students in the Engineering programs at UBC have opportunities to gain hands-on experience through co-op placements, design projects, and research opportunities.
*domestic students fees, **international students fees for 2023 intakes
| Country, Currency | On-Campus Tuition Fees | Online Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| United States, USD | 40451.05** | NA |
| Canada, CAD | 54,986.81** | NA |
| Mexico, Peso | 783310.75** | NA |
| India, INR | 3342684.39** | NA |
| Brazil, Real | 208978.20** | NA |
Computer Science
UBC is well known for its high-quality Computer Science program, which is offered through the Department of Computer Science within the Faculty of Science. UBC offers several degree programs in Computer Science, including a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, a Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Engineering, a Master of Science in Computer Science, and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Computer Science. The Computer Science program at UBC provides students with a solid foundation in computer science theory and practice, as well as a broad range of specialized courses and research opportunities in areas such as artificial intelligence, computer graphics, databases, human-computer interaction, networking, security, and software engineering. UBC’s Computer Science Co-op Program provides students with valuable work experience in industry or government, helping them to develop their skills and gain practical experience that can enhance their career prospects after graduation.
| Country, Currency | On-Campus Tuition Fees | Online Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| United States, USD | 32435.76** | NA |
| Canada, CAD | 5,729.10* | NA |
| Mexico, Peso | 628099.53** | NA |
| India, INR | 2680339.16** | NA |
| Brazil, Real | 167569.65** | NA |
Design in Architecture, Landscape Architecture and Urbanism
UBC offers a number of programs related to design in architecture, landscape architecture, and urbanism, including undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Some of the programs offered at UBC in this area include Bachelor of Environmental Design, Master of Architecture, Master of Advanced Studies in Architecture, Master of Landscape Architecture, Master of Urban Design, and PhD in Architecture.
| Country, Currency | On-Campus Tuition Fees | Online Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| United States, USD | 31408.43** | NA |
| Canada, CAD | 9,232.20* | NA |
| Mexico, Peso | 608205.78** | NA |
| India, INR | 2595445.00** | NA |
| Brazil, Real | 162262.23** | NA |
Graduate Programs
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at UBC Sauder School of Business is designed for students who want to pursue careers in management, consulting, or entrepreneurship. The UBC MBA program can be completed in 16-20 months of full-time study. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers core business topics such as accounting, finance, marketing, and operations management, as well as elective courses that allow students to specialize in areas such as innovation and entrepreneurship, sustainability, and global business. The UBC MBA program offers a co-op program that allows students to gain practical work experience while earning their degree. The co-op program involves three work terms and can be completed in 28 months.
| Country, Currency | On-Campus Tuition Fees | Online Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| United States, USD | 61643.45** | NA |
| Canada, CAD | 59,817*, 84,312** | NA |
| Mexico, Peso | 1142317.30** | NA |
| India, INR | 5072244.59** | NA |
| Brazil, Real | 322851.89** | NA |
Master of Engineering
The Master of Engineering (MEng) program at UBC is a professional graduate degree program designed for students who want to advance their careers in engineering. The program is typically completed in 12 to 24 months of full-time study, or up to five years of part-time study. The MEng program at UBC offers students the opportunity to specialize in one of several areas of engineering, including:
- Chemical and Biological Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
The program consists of a combination of coursework and a project or thesis. Students are required to complete a minimum of 30 credits of coursework, which may include technical courses in their area of specialization, as well as courses in project management, communication, and leadership. The project or thesis component of the program allows students to apply their knowledge and skills to a real-world engineering problem.
| Country, Currency | On-Campus Tuition Fees | Online Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| United States, USD | 10310.41** to 20105.58 | NA |
| Canada, CAD | 7,018* to 10,614* | NA |
| Mexico, Peso | 191261.14** to 373027.98 | NA |
| India, INR | 847998.91** to 1654043.45 | NA |
| Brazil, Real | 53989.50** to 105291.01 | NA |
Master of Science
UBC offers a wide range of Master of Science (MSc) programs across various faculties and disciplines. Some of the MSc programs offered by UBC include Computer Science, Data Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Environmental Science, Forestry, Health Sciences, Integrated Studies in Land and Food Systems, Kinesiology, Mathematics, Nursing, Physics, Population and Public Health, Resources, Environment and Sustainability, Zoology. These MSc programs typically require completion of a research thesis, although some programs may offer a non-thesis option. Admission requirements and program details may vary depending on the specific program, and prospective students are encouraged to visit the UBC website for more information.
| Country, Currency | On-Campus Tuition Fees | Online Tuition Fees |
|---|---|---|
| United States, USD | 6323.11** to 23561.28** | NA |
| Canada, CAD | 5,094* to 9,954* | NA |
| Mexico, Peso | 117342.55** to 437672.71** | NA |
| India, INR | 520013.90** to 1938266.44** | NA |
| Brazil, Real | 33096.04** to 123393.01** | NA |
Centre For Digital Media
CDM is a collaboration between UBC, SFU, Emily Carr University of Art & Design, and BCIT. It provides a few programs like Master of Digital media, Pre-MDM, IDEA-X, and Teen MDM. Here is the application link. Deadline for January to April session is 25th October and for May to August session is 11th March.
- You need a minimum 4 year undergraduate degree from a recognized university with minimum B+ grade or 76% or more in 3rd and 4th year courses.
- Have scored 7.0 in IELTS Academic with minimum 6.5 in each section or minimum 100 in TOEFL and minimum 20 in each section. If you don’t meet English proficiency requirements, you may join Pre-MDM.
| Country, Currency | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| United States, USD | 46654.75** |
| Canada, CAD | 38,438.23*, 63,419.76** |
| Mexico, Peso | 903441.75** |
| India, INR | 3855328.97** |
| Brazil, Real | 241027.75** |
| Additional Fee | CAD 15,000 refundable equipment fee |
If you’re an undergraduate student and have doubts, you can reach out to the Enrolment Services Advisor and to find your advisor, you need to log into the Student Service Center (SSC) and click on “UBC Contacts”, that appears under “Personal Info”. Remaining students like graduate students and postgraduate students may call on 604 822 9836 or fill their online form.
Admission
Student Intakes For 2023
Vancouver
| Term/Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Vancouver | |
| Accept offer and pay deposit | May 1, 2023 |
| Housing applications | May 1, 2023 |
| Study permits | Early May 2023 |
| Final transcripts (Canadian) | May 15, 2023 |
| Land One and Science One | Late May 2023 |
| Accept offer and pay deposit | June 1, 2023 |
| Housing offers | Early June 2023 |
| Course registration | Late June 2023 |
| Final transcripts (US) | June 30, 2023 |
| Loan applications (US) | June 30, 2023 |
| Jump Start orientation | Early July 2023 |
| Deferred admission | July 1, 2023 |
| Loan applications (Canada) | July 25, 2023 |
| Out-of-province transcripts | July 25, 2023 |
| Out-of-country transcripts | July 25, 2023 |
| Early arrival to residence | Early August 2023 |
| A-Level results | August 20, 2023 |
| Jump Start orientation | Late August 2023 |
| Residence move-in day | Early September 2023 |
| First day of classes | Early September 2023 |
| Tuition payment | Early September 2023 |
| Application opens | Early October 2023 |
| Scholarships and awards | Nov 15, 2023 |
| Scholarships and awards (Canada) | Dec 1, 2023 |
| First-round offers of admission | Dec 1, 2023 |
| Applications due | Jan 15, 2024 |
Okanagan
| Term/Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Accept your offer! | May 1, 2023 |
| Housing applications | Early May 2023 |
| Study permits | As soon as possible |
| Final transcripts (Canadian applicants) | May 15, 2023 |
| Accept your offer! | June 1, 2023 |
| Housing offers | Early June 2023 |
| Course registration | Late June 2023 |
| Final transcripts (US applicants) | June 30, 2023 |
| Loan applications (US applicants) | June 30, 2023 |
| Out-of-province transcripts (Canadian) | July 31, 2023 |
| Out-of-country transcripts (non-US) | July 31, 2023 |
| Loan applications (Canadian residents) | July 31, 2023 |
| Jump Start orientation (Okanagan) | Late July 2023 |
| Early arrival to residence | August 1, 2023 |
| Deferred admission | August 1, 2023 |
| A-Level results | August 20, 2023 |
| Jump Start | Late August 2023 |
| Residence move-in day | Early September 2023 |
| Orientation day (Okanagan campus) | Early September 2023 |
| First day of classes | Early September 2023 |
| Tuition payment | Early September 2023 |
| Application opens | Early October 2023 |
| International Scholars Program (Intl.) | Nov 15, 2023 |
| Presidential and Centennial Awards (Can.) | Dec 1, 2023 |
| First-round offers of admission | Dec 1, 2023 |
| Applications due | Jan 15, 2024 |
| Interim transcripts (Canadian applicants) | Jan 31, 2023 |
| Grade submissions (Ontario applicants) | Jan 31, 2023 |
Eligibility Criteria
Undergraduate Programs
The eligibility criteria for undergraduate programs at UBC vary depending on the specific program and the applicant’s academic background. However, here are some general eligibility requirements:
- Academic qualifications: Applicants must have completed a secondary education equivalent to British Columbia’s Grade 12, which includes at least five academic courses. The specific courses required vary depending on the program, but generally include English, mathematics, and science.
- Language proficiency: Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency by taking an approved English language test, such as the TOEFL or IELTS.
- Minimum grades: Applicants must meet the minimum academic requirements for their chosen program. These requirements vary depending on the program, but generally require a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
- Additional requirements: Some programs may have additional requirements, such as submission of a personal statement, portfolio, or reference letters. Applicants should check the specific requirements for their chosen program on the UBC website.
In addition to meeting the eligibility criteria, applicants must also submit an application by the deadline and pay the application fee. It is important to note that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to UBC, as admission is competitive and based on a holistic review of the applicant’s academic achievements, personal qualities, and other factors.
Graduate Programs
The eligibility criteria for graduate programs at UBC may vary depending on the specific program and department. However, there are some general requirements that apply to most graduate programs at UBC:
- Bachelor’s degree: Applicants must have a four-year bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) from a recognized university or college. The degree should be in a field relevant to the graduate program they are applying for.
- Minimum GPA: Applicants are usually required to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, or equivalent. However, some programs may require a higher GPA.
- English language proficiency: Applicants whose first language is not English are required to demonstrate proficiency in English by submitting scores from an approved English language proficiency test, such as TOEFL or IELTS.
- Letters of recommendation: Applicants are usually required to submit two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references who can attest to their qualifications for graduate study.
- Statement of purpose: Applicants are usually required to submit a statement of purpose or personal statement outlining their academic background, research interests, and career goals.
- Standardized tests: Some graduate programs may require applicants to submit scores from standardized tests such as the GRE or GMAT.
It’s important to note that these are general requirements and specific graduate programs may have additional requirements or different criteria for admission. Applicants should carefully review the admission requirements for the specific program they are interested in applying to.
How To Apply?
You can register into the course by following the steps given as below. However, Find the detailed procedure on their official website.
- Once you know the timeline and registration dates, you can begin your registration procedure.
- Registration deposit is applicable for most certificates and diplomas. However, it has been removed from most UG degree programs for continuing students. It is applicable if you are new to UBC which is non-refundable.
- Check your degree requirements and make sure to fulfill them. This is available in the Academic Calendar.
- Work on your worklists which are nothing but draft class timetables candidates need to create before registration to plan courses. Login to course schedule tool and create them.
- Register for your desired classes quickly. Keep multiple worklists ready in case courses are full.
- Once registration completes, you may add or drop classes as you wish before course change deadline.
Alumni and Achievements
The University of British Columbia can be called as one of the finest in the world and Canada. Its alumni has over 3,75,999 from over 160 countries. This university has produced some notable personalities worldwide.
- 8 Nobel laureates – Bertram Brockhouse CC FRSC FRS (Nobel Laureate in Physics)
- 3 Canadian Prime Ministers – Justin Trudeau PC MP (Canada’s 23rd and current prime minister), John Turner (Canada’s 17th prime minister)
- 65 Olympic Medals – 19 gold
- 74 Rhodes Scholars
- Other popular alumni – Jeff Wall (prominent Canadian artist, and most prominent figure of the Vancouver School)
Rankings & Awards
The University of British Columbia (UBC) is a well-regarded institution with numerous rankings and awards to its credit. UBC is consistently ranked among the top 50 universities in the world by QS World University Rankings. In 2022, it was ranked 45th in the world. UBC is ranked 34th in the world by Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022. UBC is consistently ranked among the top 50 universities in the world by ARWU. In 2021, it was ranked 35th in the world. UBC is ranked 25th in the world by U.S. News & World Report’s Best Global Universities 2022. UBC is consistently ranked among the top universities in Canada by Maclean’s magazine. In the 2021 rankings, it was ranked second among medical-doctoral universities in Canada. UBC has won numerous awards over the years, including the 2017 Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion Award from the Canadian Bureau for International Education, the 2016 Innovative University of the Year Award from the World Education Congress, and the 2015 Sustainable Campus Excellence Award from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.
Scholarships
More than CAD 30 million worth of scholarships, awards, and in other forms are provided to the deserving candidates internationally. More than 350 students have received these scholarships since 2001. International Major Entrance Scholarship, UBC Vantage One Scholarship are a few to name.
Placements
UBC has a strong reputation for producing highly employable graduates who go on to successful careers in a variety of fields. The university offers a wide range of programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, that prepare students for careers in many different industries. Top recruiters include:
- Amazon
- Microsoft
- Deloitte
- PwC
- KPMG
- Ernst & Young (EY)
- TD Bank
- RBC
- BMO Financial Group
- Telus
Accommodation & Other Facilities
UBC Vancouver campus is located at the tip of the point Grey Peninsula amidst the forest with sea on one side. More than 400 hectares in size
UBC Vancouver campus accommodates as many as 13,000 students in their 15 residences. Most of the first year students are guaranteed for winter session residence and are assigned to Orchard Commons, Totem Park, or Place Vanier residences. Students need to purchase their meal plan to live here. Rest of their residences are assigned to their upper year and graduation students. Typical cost for a room and meal plan for the first year is around CAD 12,000 to CAD 14,500 a year. However, based on the room type, the fee may range between CAD 10,300 to CAD 15,000 a year.
You can find more details regarding accommodations for international students here.