UBC Engineering Course Requirements!

World Vision Academy
2 days ago
3 min read

For high school students interested in engineering, the University of British Columbia (UBC) is a top choice as it has one of the best engineering programs in the world. The Engineering program is divided into 14 specializations, and students choose one to major in.

However, students don't pick their specialization right away. In their first year, engineering students must complete the Foundation Year curriculum, which is a standard set of courses that all students must take before they can specialize. This ensures that all engineering students have the same solid basis in math, physics, and engineering thinking.

Specializations

After completing the Foundation curriculum, students can choose their major at the end of first year. UBC Engineering offers the following specializations:

Civil Engineering: Designing and constructing infrastructure such as buildings, bridges, roads, and water systems.
Mechanical Engineering: Developing mechanical systems and machines, from engines to HVAC to robotics.
Electrical Engineering: Focusing on electrical systems, circuits, power generation, and electronics.
Computer Engineering: Combining computer science and electrical engineering to design hardware and software systems.
Chemical Engineering: Applying chemistry and engineering principles to develop processes for manufacturing chemicals, fuels, and materials.
Biomedical Engineering: Creating medical devices, technologies, and systems to improve healthcare.
Chemical/Biological Engineering: Integrating chemical and biological sciences to innovate in biotechnology and chemical production.
Environmental Engineering: Designing solutions to environmental challenges like pollution control and sustainable resource management.
Engineering Physics: Applying advanced physics concepts to solve complex engineering problems and innovate new technologies.
Geological Engineering: Applying engineering to earth sciences, focusing on mining, natural hazards, and geotechnical projects.
Manufacturing Engineering: Optimizing production processes and designing efficient manufacturing systems.
Material Engineering: Studying and developing new materials with enhanced properties for various applications.
Mining Engineering: Planning and managing extraction of minerals and resources from the earth safely and efficiently.
Integrated Engineering: Combining multiple engineering disciplines with business and design for holistic problem solving.

Required High School Courses

To be eligible for admission to UBC Engineering, you'll need to have a strong foundation in core science and math subjects. These courses are not only admission requirements, but they also prepare you for the demanding coursework in your first year.

Here's what you need to complete in high school:

English 12 or equivalent
Pre-Calculus 12
Physics 12
Chemistry 12

These are considered UBC's standard entrance requirements for science-based programs.

However! To strengthen your application competitiveness and stand out, and to make your transition to university smoother, we highly recommend going beyond the minimum.

⭐ Take these if available at your school!

AP Physics
Calculus 12 or AP Calculus

Even if your school doesn't offer these courses, it is a good idea to take an online or in-person AP class or self-study. These courses will not only boost your application, but will help you be sufficiently prepared for university.

Final Thoughts: Start Planning Early

Getting into UBC's Engineering programs is competitive, but absolutely achievable with the right preparation. The key is to:

Take the right high school courses
Keep your grades high, especially in math and science
Explore your interests through extracurriculars, volunteering, or summer programs in engineering and related subjects