Master of Business Administration
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at UNBC is designed to prepare stud...
Bachelor of Arts in Geography
Prince George
INTAKE: Jan, May & Sept
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Geography program at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) offers students an in-depth exploration of the physical and human aspects of geography. This program encompasses the study of natural landscapes, environmental processes, human societies, and spatial patterns. Through a combination of theoretical coursework, fieldwork, and hands-on learning experiences, students develop a comprehensive understanding of geographic principles and their applications to real-world issues. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary connections, critical thinking, and spatial analysis skills, preparing graduates for careers in fields such as environmental management, urban planning, resource development, and geographic information systems (GIS).
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Arts in Geography program at UNBC is designed to provide students with a broad foundation in both physical and human geography. Core courses cover topics such as physical geography, human geography, geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and research methods in geography. Additionally, students have the opportunity to choose elective courses in specialized areas such as environmental geography, urban geography, cultural geography, economic geography, and geospatial analysis. Through field courses, laboratory work, and independent research projects, students apply geographic concepts and analytical techniques to investigate spatial patterns, environmental processes, and human interactions with the landscape.
Research Focus: UNBC is committed to conducting geographical research that addresses pressing environmental, social, and economic challenges facing communities locally and globally. Faculty members and students in the Bachelor of Arts in Geography program engage in research projects that span a wide range of topics, including climate change impacts, natural hazards assessment, land use planning, indigenous land rights, urbanization, and resource management. Research methods may include field surveys, geospatial analysis, remote sensing, and community-based participatory research. Through collaborative research partnerships with government agencies, industry stakeholders, indigenous communities, and international organizations, UNBC fosters research initiatives that contribute to evidence-based decision-making and sustainable development.
Industry Engagement: The Bachelor of Arts in Geography program at UNBC emphasizes engagement with industry partners, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to address real-world challenges and promote sustainable development. Through internships, co-op placements, and applied research projects, students have the opportunity to gain practical experience and develop professional networks in fields such as environmental consulting, urban planning, natural resource management, and GIS analysis. Additionally, guest lectures, workshops, and site visits featuring industry professionals provide students with insights into career opportunities, industry trends, and emerging issues in the field of geography. Industry partnerships also facilitate student involvement in community-based projects, environmental monitoring initiatives, and land use planning processes, enhancing students' readiness for the workforce and their career prospects upon graduation.
Global Perspective: UNBC recognizes the importance of a global perspective in understanding geographical processes and addressing global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and urbanization. The program offers opportunities for international study exchanges, research collaborations with international scholars, and participation in global geographical conferences and fieldwork experiences. Courses on global environmental issues, development geography, and geopolitics provide students with exposure to diverse geographic contexts and perspectives. Through experiential learning opportunities such as study abroad programs, international internships, and cross-cultural projects, students develop intercultural competency, adaptability, and a global outlook, preparing them to engage with global challenges and opportunities in their future careers.
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 Arts in Geography program at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) possess a diverse skill set that prepares them for various career opportunities in fields related to environmental management, urban planning, resource development, and geographic information systems (GIS).
Environmental Consultant: Graduates can work as environmental consultants for consulting firms, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. They assess environmental impacts, conduct field studies, and develop strategies to mitigate environmental risks and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
Urban Planner: Graduates can pursue careers as urban planners for municipal governments, regional planning authorities, or private planning firms. They develop land use plans, zoning regulations, and transportation policies to promote sustainable development, manage urban growth, and enhance quality of life in urban areas.
GIS Specialist: Graduates can work as geographic information systems (GIS) specialists for government agencies, engineering firms, or environmental organizations. They collect, analyze, and visualize spatial data using GIS software to support decision-making processes in fields such as land management, emergency response, and natural resource conservation.
Cartographer/Mapmaker: Graduates can work as cartographers or mapmakers for mapping companies, government agencies, or publishing houses. They create maps, atlases, and geographic visualizations using cartographic techniques and GIS technology to represent spatial information accurately and effectively.
Environmental Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as environmental policy analysts for government agencies, research institutes, or advocacy organizations. They analyze environmental policies, assess their effectiveness, and make recommendations for policy reforms to address environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.
Natural Resource Manager: Graduates can work as natural resource managers for forestry companies, conservation organizations, or government agencies. They develop and implement strategies for sustainable resource management, land conservation, and ecosystem restoration to protect natural habitats and biodiversity.
Remote Sensing Specialist: Graduates can specialize in remote sensing for environmental monitoring, land use planning, or disaster management. They analyze satellite imagery, aerial photographs, and other remote sensing data to monitor environmental changes, assess landscape conditions, and support decision-making processes.
Community Development Officer: Graduates can work as community development officers for non-profit organizations, indigenous communities, or international development agencies. They facilitate community consultations, coordinate development projects, and empower communities to address social, economic, and environmental challenges.
Geospatial Analyst: Graduates can work as geospatial analysts for utility companies, transportation agencies, or natural resource industries. They analyze spatial data to optimize infrastructure planning, route optimization, and resource allocation, using GIS technology to improve operational efficiency and decision-making processes.
Geography Educator: Graduates can pursue careers as educators, teaching geography at primary, secondary, or post-secondary institutions. They may also provide professional development training for educators, develop curriculum materials, and engage in educational outreach activities to promote geographic literacy and awareness.
