University of Northern British Columbia
Prince George, Canada
University of Northern British Columbia
Prince George, Canada
Founded
1990
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
3,700+
Maclean's Ranking
#2 in Category
Discover the University of Northern British Columbia
Discover the University of Northern British Columbia
The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) is a public research university established in 1990 through a grassroots movement by northern British Columbia residents who petitioned the provincial government for a university in the region. The main campus is located on Cranbrook Hill in Prince George, with additional regional campuses in Prince Rupert, Terrace, Quesnel, and Fort St. John. UNBC officially opened its doors to students in 1994 and has since grown to serve over 3,700 students.
Known as Canada's Green University, UNBC has held this trademark since 2007 and is recognized for its commitment to environmental sustainability, including its innovative biomass heating system that uses renewable wood pellets. The university is a member of the University of the Arctic due to its northern latitude, connecting it to a cooperative network of over 200 institutions in the circumpolar region. UNBC's academic themes focus on natural resources, the environment, health, Indigenous peoples, and community sustainability.
UNBC has consistently been ranked among the top small universities in Canada by Maclean's magazine, finishing in the top three in its Primarily Undergraduate category 18 out of 19 years. The university offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across five faculties and a Division of Medical Sciences. Its Northern Medical Program, a collaboration with the University of British Columbia, trains physicians to serve rural and northern communities.
Key Milestones
- 1990: UNBC officially established by the BC Legislative Assembly through the UNBC Act (Bill 40)
- 1994: Main campus opened and inaugurated by Queen Elizabeth II with first full class of students
- 2007: Obtained the trademark for Canada's Green University, reflecting deep commitment to sustainability
- 2015: Ranked number one university of its size in Canada by Maclean's magazine
Academic Faculties and Programs at UNBC
Academic Faculties and Programs at UNBC
UNBC offers a comprehensive range of programs across five faculties and a Division of Medical Sciences, with strengths in environmental science, Indigenous studies, health sciences, and engineering. The university provides certificates, diplomas, bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and doctoral programs designed to address the needs of northern and rural communities.
Faculty of Environment
Focuses on environmental science, natural resource management, and sustainability, leveraging UNBC's unique northern location to provide hands-on learning in one of Canada's most spectacular natural environments.
- Environmental Science
- Natural Resource Management
- Geography and Environmental Studies
Faculty of Science and Engineering
Offers rigorous programs in mathematics, computer science, physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering with small class sizes and close faculty mentorship in research-intensive settings.
- Computer Science
- Civil Engineering
- Mathematics and Statistics
Faculty of Human and Health Sciences
Prepares students for careers in health care, social work, education, and community development, with programs designed to address the health needs of northern and rural populations.
- Nursing
- Social Work
- Health Sciences
Faculty of Indigenous Studies, Social Sciences and Humanities
Combines Indigenous studies, social sciences, and humanities into an interdisciplinary faculty that explores cultural expression, history, political science, and First Nations knowledge systems.
- First Nations Studies
- English and History
- Political Science
Faculty of Business and Economics
Provides programs in business administration, economics, and commerce, including an MBA program that prepares graduates for leadership roles in diverse industries and northern communities.
- Commerce (BComm)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Economics
Division of Medical Sciences
Delivers the Northern Medical Program in collaboration with the University of British Columbia, training physicians and health professionals to serve northern and rural communities across British Columbia.
- Northern Medical Program (MD)
- Biomedical Studies
- Community Health Science
Admission Requirements for UNBC
Admission Requirements for UNBC
Undergraduate Admission
- High School DiplomaCompletion of Grade 12 or equivalent with required academic courses
- Admission AverageCalculated from English 12 plus next three highest academic Grade 12 courses and one additional Grade 12 course
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0) or TOEFL 88 iBT
- Application FeeNon-refundable application fee required at submission
- International DepositCAD 9,000 admission deposit for international undergraduate students
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeFour-year bachelor's degree from a recognized institution with minimum B average
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0) or TOEFL 90 iBT (min. 20 per section)
- ReferencesTwo or three academic or professional letters of reference depending on program
- Statement of InterestWritten statement outlining academic interests and research goals
- International DepositCAD 1,500 admission deposit for international graduate students
Priority deadline for undergraduate programs starting in September. Applications received by this date receive full consideration for competitive admissions.
Deadline for domestic undergraduate applicants for the January semester start.
First deadline for many graduate programs for the September intake. Check individual program pages for specific dates.
Deadline to apply and self-declare grades for automatic consideration for early entrance awards and leadership scholarships.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at UNBC
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at UNBC
UNBC offers competitive tuition rates compared to many Canadian universities. The following estimates are based on 2025-2026 fee schedules. International undergraduate tuition is charged on a per-credit-hour basis, while graduate tuition is assessed per semester. All amounts are in Canadian dollars.
| Fee Category | Domestic (CAD) | International (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (per credit hour) | Contact university for current rate | CAD 963.10 |
| Undergraduate Tuition (30 credits/year est.) | Contact university for current rate | CAD 28,900 |
| Graduate Tuition (per semester, full-time) | CAD 1,893.67 | CAD 2,651.13 |
| MBA Tuition (per credit hour) | CAD 803.56 | CAD 1,128.40 |
| Total | Varies by program — contact UNBC for details | Approx. CAD 28,900 (UG) / CAD 7,953 (Grad, 3 semesters) |
Early Entrance Awards
First-year students who apply by January 15 and self-declare grades are automatically considered for grades-based early entrance awards, which recognize outstanding academic achievement in high school.
- Eligibility: First-year undergraduate students with strong academic records
- Deadline: January 15
- Application: Automatic consideration based on self-declared grades at time of admission application
Leadership Awards
Undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional leadership in their communities can apply for Leadership Awards by submitting a leadership application and two letters of reference before the January 15 deadline.
- Eligibility: Undergraduate students demonstrating community leadership
- Deadline: January 15
- Total Annual Awards: UNBC distributes approximately CAD 3.7 million in financial awards each year
Campus and Facilities at UNBC
Campus and Facilities at UNBC
UNBC's main campus is situated on Cranbrook Hill, overlooking Prince George and surrounded by northern British Columbia's forests and mountains. The campus is renowned for its innovative architecture, with buildings designed to represent elements of the northern landscape, and its sustainable biomass heating system powered by renewable wood pellets.
An iconic gathering space with a flowing blue staircase and wooden lattice ceiling representing the west coast rainforests
Once the world's tallest modern all-timber structure, this facility supports research and education on innovative uses of wood
A state-of-the-art athletic facility offering fitness areas, gymnasium, climbing wall, and indoor track for students and community members
Housing and Dining
On-Campus Housing
UNBC Housing is home to more than 500 students and provides a convenient, safe, and supportive community within walking distance of all campus facilities.
- Four-bedroom shared apartments available
- Each floor equipped with WiFi and laundry facilities
- Priority housing for first-year and returning students
Dining and Services
The campus features dining options in a cafeteria designed with a lighthouse motif representing the rugged northern BC coastline, along with a bookstore and various student service offices.
- On-campus cafeteria with diverse meal options
- UNBC Bookstore beneath iconic triangular glass skylights
- Child daycare centre available on campus
Student Life at UNBC
Student Life at UNBC
UNBC fosters a close-knit, inclusive community where students benefit from small class sizes and personal attention from faculty. The Student Life department, along with student ambassadors, hosts regular events, workshops, and volunteer opportunities to keep students engaged throughout the academic year.
Prince George: Gateway to Northern British Columbia
Prince George: Gateway to Northern British Columbia
Life in Prince George
Prince George is the largest city in northern British Columbia with a population of approximately 75,000. Located at the confluence of the Fraser and Nechako rivers, it serves as a regional hub for commerce, health care, and education. The city offers a unique blend of urban amenities and unparalleled access to outdoor recreation in one of Canada's most spectacular natural regions.
Outdoor Recreation
World-class skiing, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and access to ancient forests and provincial parks are all within easy reach of the city.
Northern Gateway
Prince George is a transportation hub connecting Highway 16 and Highway 97, with an airport offering direct flights to Vancouver and other destinations.
Arts and Culture
The city features galleries, theatres, museums, and a vibrant arts community, along with festivals and cultural events throughout the year.
Affordable Living
Compared to larger Canadian cities like Vancouver and Toronto, Prince George offers a significantly lower cost of living, making it an attractive option for students.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where UNBC Graduates Work
Practical Information for Students
Practical Information for Students
For International Students
International students receive guidance on study permit applications and visa requirements. A CAD 9,000 admission deposit is required for undergraduate students before receiving the official Letter of Admission needed for permit applications.
All international students must maintain valid medical coverage. A compulsory medical insurance fee of CAD 190 per semester is assessed, and students must also enroll in BC Medical Services Plan after the three-month waiting period at CAD 75 per month.
UNBC recommends international students use the Convera payment platform, which allows payments in local currencies via online payment options or bank transfer. Credit card payments are also accepted.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Northern British Columbia Rankings
University of Northern British Columbia Rankings
UNBC is consistently recognized as one of Canada's top small universities. The university has been ranked in the top three in its category by Maclean's magazine for 18 of the last 19 years and continues to improve its standing in international rankings, particularly in research environment and international outlook.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Business and Economics | Times Higher Education | #601 |
| Ecology | University Guru | #401 |
| Climate Action (SDG 13) | THE Impact Rankings | #101-200 |
| International Outlook | Times Higher Education | #703 |
Features
The University of Northern British Columbia stands out for its strong focus on sustainability, personalized learning, and community engagement. As a research-intensive public university, UNBC offers small class sizes that allow students to build meaningful connections with professors and participate in hands-on research from early in their studies. Its scenic campus, surrounded by forests and mountains, creates an inspiring environment for learning and exploration. UNBC is also known for its commitment to Indigenous collaboration, innovative programs in environmental and health sciences, and supportive services for international students. With modern facilities, a safe and welcoming atmosphere, and a reputation for academic excellence, UNBC provides a high-quality educational experience rooted in both global awareness and regional relevance.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
January - March
April - June
Location
3333 University Way, Prince George, BC, V2N 4Z9
Uni4Edu AI Assistant
