Master of Business Administration
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at UNBC is designed to prepare stud...
Bachelor of Planning - Northern and Rural Community Planning
Prince George
INTAKE: Jan, May & Sept
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Planning program with a specialization in Northern and Rural Community Planning at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) is tailored to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by northern and rural communities. This program prepares students to become professional planners capable of fostering sustainable development, enhancing community resilience, and promoting social equity in northern and rural areas. Students gain practical skills and theoretical knowledge to address issues such as land use, transportation, housing, and economic development in diverse communities.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Planning - Northern and Rural Community Planning program at UNBC is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of planning principles, theories, and practices, with a focus on northern and rural contexts. Courses cover topics such as community development, land-use planning, resource management, Indigenous planning, and environmental sustainability. Students engage in experiential learning opportunities, including fieldwork, case studies, and collaborative projects, to apply theoretical concepts to real-world planning challenges.
Research Focus: UNBC has a strong research focus on northern and rural community planning, with faculty members conducting research on a wide range of topics relevant to northern and rural areas. Research areas may include Indigenous land use and governance, climate change adaptation, sustainable transportation, community economic development, and cultural heritage preservation. Students in the Bachelor of Planning program have the opportunity to engage in research activities, gaining valuable research skills and contributing to innovative solutions to planning issues in northern and rural communities.
Industry Engagement: UNBC fosters strong connections with government agencies, Indigenous organizations, non-profit groups, and industry partners involved in planning and development in northern and rural regions. Through internships, co-op placements, and community-based projects, students have opportunities to collaborate with professionals and stakeholders, gaining practical experience and building professional networks. These industry connections enhance students' understanding of real-world planning practices and facilitate career opportunities upon graduation.
Global Perspective: The Bachelor of Planning program at UNBC incorporates a global perspective, exploring planning issues within a broader international context. Students learn about global trends and best practices in planning, comparative planning approaches, and international development initiatives. Through coursework, study abroad programs, and international research collaborations, students develop a comprehensive understanding of planning challenges and solutions from a global perspective, enriching their education and preparing them to work in diverse cultural and geographical contexts.
Location
Prince George
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
CAD 24771
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS for International Students:
Application Fees: CAD $ 125
Academic Requirements: International students should have a minimum average of 65% or equivalent in their high school or secondary school studies. This average is calculated based on the applicant's best six academic courses.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: An overall band score of 6.5, with no individual band score less than 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum score of 90 on the internet-based test (iBT).
- PTE: A minimum score of 65 on the Pearson Test of English.
- DET: A minimum score of 105 on the Duolingo English Test.
The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) offers several scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the community.
International Excellence Entrance Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to international students entering their first year of study at UNBC. The scholarship values range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the academic achievements of the students.
International Major Entrance Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students entering undergraduate programs in specific disciplines, such as Business Administration, Environmental Science, Computer Science, and more. The scholarship amounts range from $5,000 to $15,000 per year.
External Scholarships: UNBC also encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. The university provides resources and information about external scholarships that international students can apply for, including government scholarships, private foundations, and international organizations.
International Student Work Study Program: UNBC offers an International Student Work Study Program that provides on-campus employment opportunities for international students. This program allows students to gain work experience while studying and earn income to support their education.
Donor-Funded Scholarships: UNBC has a range of donor-funded scholarships that are available to both domestic and international students. These scholarships are supported by generous contributions from individuals, organizations, and businesses who value education and want to support students in their academic journey.
It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary each year. Applying for scholarships at UNBC usually requires a separate application process, and some scholarships may require additional documentation, such as letters of recommendation or personal statements. International students are encouraged to carefully review the scholarship requirements and deadlines to ensure a successful application.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Planning program with a specialization in Northern and Rural Community Planning from the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) are well-equipped to pursue various rewarding career paths in the field of community planning and development.
Community Planner: Graduates can work as community planners, collaborating with local governments, Indigenous communities, and non-profit organizations to develop land use plans, zoning regulations, and community development strategies that promote sustainable growth and enhance quality of life in northern and rural areas.
Land Use Planner: Graduates may pursue careers as land use planners, responsible for assessing land use needs, conducting environmental impact assessments, and recommending land use policies and regulations that balance economic development, environmental conservation, and community priorities.
Indigenous Planning Specialist: With a focus on Indigenous planning, graduates can work as planning specialists, supporting Indigenous communities in land use planning, community development, and cultural heritage preservation initiatives that respect Indigenous rights, values, and traditions.
Economic Development Officer: Graduates may work as economic development officers, assisting communities in identifying economic opportunities, attracting investment, and implementing strategies to support local businesses, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in northern and rural areas.
Environmental Planner: Graduates can pursue careers as environmental planners, focusing on environmental protection, conservation, and sustainable resource management in northern and rural regions. They may work for government agencies, consulting firms, or non-profit organizations involved in environmental planning and management.
Community Development Officer: Graduates can work as community development officers, facilitating community engagement processes, coordinating development projects, and advocating for community priorities and needs in northern and rural communities.
Policy Analyst: Graduates with strong analytical skills can pursue careers as policy analysts, working for government agencies, research organizations, or advocacy groups to analyze policy issues, evaluate planning strategies, and recommend policy solutions that address the needs of northern and rural communities.
Regional Planner: Graduates may work as regional planners, collaborating with multiple stakeholders, including local governments, Indigenous communities, and industry partners, to develop regional development plans and coordinate planning efforts across jurisdictions in northern and rural areas.
Social Planner: Graduates can specialize in social planning, focusing on issues such as affordable housing, social services, and community health in northern and rural communities. They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or community health organizations, advocating for policies and programs that improve social equity and well-being.
Consultant: Graduates can work as planning consultants, providing expertise and advice to governments, Indigenous organizations, and private sector clients on a wide range of planning issues, including land use planning, community engagement, and sustainable development strategies.
