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    University of British Columbia
    University

    University of British Columbia

    Canada flagCanada

    "Tuum Est: It's Yours"

    Founded 1908 Vancouver President and Vice-Chancellor: Benoit-Antoine Bacon
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    About

    The University of British Columbia, commonly known as UBC, is a public research university in Canada, consistently ranked among the top 20 public universities globally. It operates two main campuses: the flagship Vancouver campus on the Point Grey peninsula and a second campus in Kelowna, the hub of the Okanagan Valley. The Vancouver campus sits on unceded Musqueam territory, a fact the university acknowledges in its official land acknowledgments. With a student body exceeding 60,000, UBC attracts learners from across Canada and more than 140 countries.

    UBC's research enterprise is substantial. The university's annual research budget reaches $893 million, funding nearly 10,000 projects each year across industrial, governmental, and non-governmental sectors. This scale places it among the top research institutions in North America. The Vancouver campus is known for its ocean and mountain views and iconic architecture, including the Museum of Anthropology and the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts. The Okanagan campus, established in 2005, has grown rapidly and offers a more intimate setting focused on innovation and interdisciplinary study.

    UBC's alumni include three Canadian prime ministers, numerous Rhodes Scholars, and leaders in business, science, and the arts. The university's commitment to sustainability and community engagement is woven into its academic programs and campus operations. Its reputation for academic excellence is matched by its role as a cultural landmark in the Pacific Northwest.

    Mission

    UBC's mission is to be a global centre for research and teaching, fostering sustainability, community engagement, and interdisciplinary study. The university aims to create an inclusive environment where students and faculty can push boundaries and address complex societal challenges.

    History

    UBC was founded in 1908 as the McGill University College of British Columbia, an affiliate of McGill University, before becoming an independent university. The Vancouver campus opened in 1915 with 379 students. The university's formal founding date is recorded as 1908.

    Over the decades, UBC expanded its programs and infrastructure. The Okanagan campus was established in 2005, merging with Okanagan University College. Today, UBC is recognized globally for its research and teaching, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and community engagement.

    Subdivisions

    UBC Okanagan

    The Kelowna campus, established in 2005, offering a more intimate setting with a focus on innovation.

    UBC Robson Square

    A downtown Vancouver campus offering continuing education and public programs.

    Notable People

    Dr. Jim Christenson

    Professor, Faculty of Medicine

    Appointed to the 2026 Order of British Columbia, the province's highest honour.

    University of British Columbia Faculty of Arts

    Walter C. Koerner Library

    University of British Columbia Faculty of Applied Science

    Milestones

    1908

    Founded as McGill University College of British Columbia

    1915

    Vancouver campus opens with 379 students

    2005

    UBC Okanagan campus established in Kelowna

    2026

    UBC researchers develop seaweed coating to keep strawberries fresh longer

    Departments

    Faculty of ArtsFaculty of Applied ScienceFaculty of MedicineFaculty of ScienceFaculty of ForestrySauder School of Business

    Sources

    Organization Info

    Founded
    1908
    Headquarters
    Vancouver
    Country
    Canada
    President and Vice-Chancellor
    Benoit-Antoine Bacon
    Type
    University
    President
    Benoit-Antoine Bacon
    Employees
    6539
    Students
    60,000+

    Financials

    Revenue
    $2.0 billion
    Employees
    6539

    Official Website

    www.ubc.ca/

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