The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) will introduce a new PhD program in engineering, which represents the institution’s first doctoral program launch in over 15 years. Provost Michel Beaulieu hailed this development as a significant milestone for both UNBC and northern British Columbia. The program aims to enhance research opportunities, particularly in fields crucial to the region such as resource development and environmental management.
As one of British Columbia’s six research universities, UNBC’s expansion into a new academic domain underscores its commitment to serving the northern communities. Beaulieu emphasized that offering doctoral studies locally allows students to remain connected to their home regions while engaging in impactful research. Presently, many students have to leave the province to pursue their doctoral degrees, leading to a potential loss of talent.
This initiative will make UNBC the fourth institution in British Columbia to provide a PhD program in engineering, joining the ranks of the University of Victoria, Simon Fraser University, and the University of British Columbia. The inaugural cohort of students is set to commence their studies in the upcoming fall semester.
UNBC, primarily located in Prince George with additional campuses in Fort St. John, Terrace, Prince Rupert, and Quesnel, was established in 1994 to offer greater educational access in the northern region. While the university currently offers a master’s program in engineering, a PhD is often necessary for advanced research endeavors.
Highlighting the pressing demand for expertise in various engineering disciplines pertinent to northern British Columbia, Beaulieu stressed the importance of addressing local challenges. These include sustainable infrastructure, water resource management, environmental engineering, structural engineering, wood engineering, transportation systems, and geotechnical engineering.
Jessie Sunner, B.C.’s minister of post-secondary education, lauded the program for its potential to attract and retain top-tier talent in northern B.C., fostering innovation and addressing critical issues statewide. The new PhD program has garnered support from community leaders like Albert Koehler, who envisions further growth by expanding into additional engineering branches such as mechanical and electrical engineering.
