When I first arrived at the University of British Columbia (UBC), I had a diverse range of academic interests and hadn’t yet decided on my major. UBC’s approach to course options and flexibility is one of its standout features, and it allowed me to explore various subjects before making a final decision. However, it’s important to note that this flexibility comes with both significant advantages and a few challenges.

The great thing about UBC is the two-year window within the Faculty of Arts that enables students to take a wide array of courses, free from the pressure of immediately declaring a major. This period of exploration is invaluable. It allows students to delve into subjects they’re passionate about, discover new interests, and consider different academic paths. The chance to engage with diverse courses and professors enriches the learning experience and fosters intellectual growth.
Yet, it’s not without its complexities. The drawback of UBC’s flexible approach lies in the somewhat complicated process. Navigating through the multitude of course options can be confusing. Students must continuously keep track of their course selections to ensure they meet the requirements of their intended major, minor, or other academic objectives. There is no set timetable to follow when you are part of a very flexible faculty, and it can be stressful to plan your own courses and timetables while simultaneously ensuring you’re fulfilling all the necessary requirements.
Despite the complexities, the flexibility offered by UBC is a significant advantage for students who appreciate the autonomy to shape their academic path. It’s a system that encourages exploration and personal growth. However, for it to truly thrive, UBC could enhance online suport rather than going to academic advisors all the time to ensure you’re on the right track with your degree.

Spacious and beautiful campus but insufficient sections seats to accommodate all the students. Great location and great variety of courses to select from. Not enough student housing to accommodate students

This university provides a high quality education to the students while also addressing their mental health and physical health needs. There are a variety of choices when it comes down to degrees so definitely do your research before applying. I am currently in the Visual Arts Program at UBC’s Okanagan campus and I thoroughly enjoyed what the program has had to offer so far. Although 1st year was very generic and the studio classes may be very long, it was worth it. The environment was very intimidating at first but everyone around is very willing to help, and talking to professors definitely helped me transition from high school into university

I am nearly halfway through the completion of my Bachelor’s program within the faculty of arts at UBC and I am quite impressed with the level of academia my studies have managed to impress upon me. I am the Political Science major and feel as though I have developed an excellent framework to conduct academic research within my field. One suggestion I would have is to increase the hands-on exposure we receive to matters relating to our field of study.

It is a very diverse university which offers multiple activities and courses that a student can pick from. The staff here is extremely approachable and it is very easy to navigate the system. In this university, students are able to accomplish their goals with like-minded people.

Throughout my university life, I feel like I’m been challenged to think about every aspect of my learning critically so that I can lead myself to a conclusion. My university helps you to interact with other students through discussions and to express yourself in a practical way such as video essays and presentations.

The University of British Columbia is a university where the most independent people get to shine brightest. No matter what program you are in, you are never pigeon-holed into one track and are given options to maneuver comfortably. Of course, this is not for everybody as my conversations with friends has illuminated. However, it can be very encouraging to the few who relish in the freedom of opportunity to try new things.

I highly recommend University of British Columbia, I am a first year arts student anchoring for psychology major at UBC, and I would give my overall experience a 5/5. UBC has a very diverse social environment which creates a comfortable social space for everyone, the campus is huge and absolutely gorgeous with all the natural landscape its surrounded with, it is especially beautiful in the summer with the view of cherry blossoms and the ocean. And of course, the academic environment at UBC is probably one of the bests in Canada, my professors are all very well-known elites in their areas of studies, they are very quick and responsible to student feedbacks and are dedicated to create good contents that helps me learn, some even balance the lectures with humor which significantly increased my interests and understanding for their classes. Overall, the university of British Columbia is a very good choice for secondary education if you’re seeking for success in both academic and social life! 🙂

UBC has amazing profs, great facilities, and some beautiful architecture. The food is a bit overpriced, but is pretty well made. It’s like a maze sometimes, when you walk around the campus you get lost pretty easily.

UBC is a comprehensive university with a beautiful environment and an intense learning environment with various resources. My campus in Vancouver is near the beach, so you can relax after studying. UBC also has a variety of student clubs for anything you are interested in or want to learn about. The teachers in the Arts program that I am in are very qualified and take care of their students. Compared to other schools, UBC doesn’t have a grade pressure situation, and each teacher is relatively fair in giving grades.