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University of Alberta, Canada

  • Edmonton, Canada
  • Rank

    111

  • Established

    1908

  • Programs

    -+

Overview

The University of Alberta is a public research university located in Edmonton, Canada, founded on October 1, 1908. With over 40,000 students, it is one of Canada's largest universities offering over 400 undergraduate programs, and approximately 500 graduate programs across 18 faculties.

The university has a strong focus on research, with its research facilities including the National Institute for Nanotechnology, and the Alberta School of Business is ranked among the top five business schools in Canada. The University of Alberta has a diverse and inclusive community and offers a range of sports, arts and cultural activities for its students.

 

Why choose University of Alberta?

There are several compelling reasons why students choose to study at the University of Alberta Canada:

  1. Academic Excellence: The University of Alberta is consistently ranked among the world's top universities, offering a wide range of programs known for their academic rigor and quality.

  2. Diverse Programs: With over 200 undergraduate programs and 500 graduate programs, the university covers a vast array of disciplines, enabling students to pursue their passions and interests.

  3. Research Opportunities: As a leading research institution, the university provides numerous opportunities for students to engage in groundbreaking research projects, contributing to advancements in various fields.

  4. Global Reputation: The university's reputation extends worldwide, attracting students, researchers, and faculty from diverse backgrounds, fostering a truly global learning environment.

  5. Strong Faculty: You'll learn from accomplished professors, researchers, and experts who are at the forefront of their fields, gaining insights from leaders in academia.

  6. Campus Facilities: State-of-the-art facilities, libraries, laboratories, and research centers offer a conducive learning environment equipped with cutting-edge technology.

  7. Career Prospects: The University of Alberta's strong connections with industries, businesses, and government agencies provide valuable networking opportunities and pathways to internships and job placements.

  8. Community Engagement: The university is deeply integrated into the community, offering students opportunities to contribute through volunteer work, community projects, and partnerships.

  9. Cultural Diversity: With a diverse student population from over 150 countries, you'll experience a rich multicultural environment that fosters cross-cultural understanding and global perspectives.

  10. Location: Situated in the vibrant city of Edmonton, Alberta, you'll enjoy a mix of urban amenities, natural beauty, and a friendly atmosphere, creating an ideal setting for both academics and leisure.

  11. Student Life: The university offers a dynamic campus life with numerous clubs, organizations, sports teams, and cultural events that help you connect with fellow students and explore your interests.

  12. Support Services: From academic advising to mental health resources, the university is committed to providing comprehensive support services to ensure your well-being and success.

  13. Scholarships and Funding: The University of Alberta offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support students in achieving their educational goals.

  14. Alumni Network: Join a strong and influential network of alumni who have gone on to excel in various fields, providing you with potential connections and mentorship.

  15. International Opportunities: Whether it's exchange programs, study abroad initiatives, or international internships, the university encourages students to embrace global learning experiences.

 

Key Features

Key Features of University of Alberta include:

  1. Trailblazing Research Initiatives: The university is at the forefront of groundbreaking research, from pioneering work in artificial intelligence to innovative advancements in health sciences and environmental sustainability.

  2. Pronghorn Petroglyphs: The U of A is home to Pronghorn Petroglyphs, a unique rock art site that offers insights into the cultural history of Alberta's Indigenous peoples.

  3. National Institute for Nanotechnology: Collaborating with the National Research Council of Canada, the U of A hosts a cutting-edge facility dedicated to nanotechnology research, driving innovation at the smallest scales.

  4. Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity Partnership: The U of A partners with Banff Centre to offer programs that integrate arts, leadership, and entrepreneurship, fostering interdisciplinary growth.

  5. Housing Observatory: The university operates an innovative Housing Observatory that examines housing affordability and urban development, contributing to informed policy decisions.

  6. Natural Resources and Energy Law Programs: Unique to Canada, the U of A offers specialized law programs that focus on natural resources, energy, and environmental law.

  7. Stollery Science Lab: Part of the Children’s Autism Services of Edmonton, this lab focuses on research, assessment, and support for children with autism spectrum disorder.

  8. Solar Telescope: The U of A operates a state-of-the-art solar telescope that contributes to solar physics research and promotes public understanding of solar phenomena.

  9. Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology: This research hub studies infectious diseases and virology, playing a vital role in addressing global health challenges.

  10. Canadian Indigenous Languages and Literacy Development Institute: This unique institute supports the revitalization of Indigenous languages, cultures, and literacies.

  11. Folklore and Ethnology Programs: The university's Folklore and Ethnology programs explore cultural traditions, storytelling, and identity in an ever-changing world.

  12. Aurora Watch: Developed by U of A researchers, the Aurora Watch app notifies users when the Northern Lights are visible in their region.

  13. Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute (Amii): Amii accelerates machine learning research, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government.

  14. Institute for Sexual Minority Studies and Services: This institute pioneers research, education, and advocacy for LGBTQ2S+ communities, promoting inclusivity and equity.

  15. Prairie Urban Farm: A partnership between the university and non-profit organizations, this sustainable urban farm contributes to food security and community engagement.

University of Alberta Courses & Fees

University of Alberta Courses

University of Alberta offers various undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs across various disciplines.

Overview of the University of Alberta Courses and University of Alberta course

University of Alberta Tuition Fees & Cost of Living

The University of Alberta Tuition Fees and cost of living at the University vary depending on the level of study, campus location, accommodation options, and personal lifestyle choices.

Tuition fees:

  • The average tuition fee for international students is between CAD 31,000 to CAD 42,000 per year for undergraduate courses and approximately CAD 9,000 per year for postgraduate courses. 

  • For domestic students, the average tuition fee is CAD 6,693 per year for undergraduate courses and CAD 7,472 per year for postgraduate courses  

Cost of living:

The cost of living for students at the University of Alberta College can vary based on factors such as your location, lifestyle choices, and personal spending habits.

General estimate of the cost of living in Kingston, Ontario:

  1. Housing (Rent): Monthly rent for student housing or shared apartments can range from CAD $800 to $1,500 or more, depending on the type of accommodation and its proximity to the campus.

  2. Food: Monthly food expenses might range from CAD $300 to $500, depending on whether you cook at home or eat out.

  3. Transportation: Edmonton has public transportation options, and a monthly transit pass might cost around CAD $97 for students.

  4. Books and Supplies: Budget around CAD $800 to $1,200 per academic year for textbooks, supplies, and course materials.

  5. Health Insurance: International students may need health insurance coverage, which can vary in cost depending on the coverage and duration.

  6. Miscellaneous Expenses: This category includes entertainment, personal care items, and other incidentals. Budget around CAD $100 to $200 per month.

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

  • Housing: CAD $9,600 - $18,000

  • Food: CAD $3,600 - $6,000

  • Transportation: CAD $1,164

  • Books and Supplies: CAD $800 - $1,200

  • Health Insurance and Miscellaneous: Variable

University of Alberta Rankings & Intakes

University of Alberta Rankings

Here are some of the most recentUniversity of  Alberta Rankings:
 

University of Alberta Ranking

Ranked By 

Ranking 

QS World University Rankings 

111

US News & World Report - Global Universities 

136

Times Higher Education World University Rankings

118

 

US News & World Report - Global Universities Rankings 2023 for Courses 

Ranked By

Ranking

Agricultural Sciences 

38

Computer sciences 

100

Materials Science 

178

Nanoscience & Nanotechnology

198

Polymer Science 

99

Space Science

194

Engineering 

85

Artificial Intelligence

52

Civil Engineering 

169

 

Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023 for Courses

Ranked By

Ranking

Art & Humanities 

201-250

Engineering  

101-125

Social Sciences 

151-175

Physical Sciences 

151-175

Computer Science 

101-125

 

The University of Alberta Intakes

The University of Alberta intakes are mentioned in the tables below:
 

University of Alberta Intakes

Intakes 

Month of Intakes 

Application deadline 

Fall

September 

July 1 

Spring 

January

November 1 

Summer 

May

1 March

Admission Criteria

The University of Alberta has specific admission criteria for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs.

Here are the University of Alberta Admission Criteria:

 

Undergraduate Programs:

  • Academic Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent with specific course prerequisites for the desired program. Minimum GPA requirements may vary by program.

  • English Language Proficiency: For international students or those whose first language is not English, you may need to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

  • Transcripts and Documents: Official high school transcripts, including predicted or final grades, along with any other required documents such as letters of recommendation or a personal statement.

  • Standardized Tests: Some programs may require standardized test scores like the SAT or ACT. Additionally, certain competitive programs may require additional entrance exams or portfolios.

  • Program-Specific Requirements: Certain programs, especially those in fine arts, design, or health sciences, might have specific portfolio submissions, interviews, or auditions.

 

Graduate Programs:

  • Academic Background: A completed bachelor's degree from a recognized institution is usually required. Some programs might have specific prerequisites or minimum GPA requirements.

  • Transcripts: Official transcripts from all previous post-secondary institutions attended.

  • Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional references who can attest to your qualifications for graduate studies.

  • Statement of Purpose or Personal Statement: A well-written essay explaining your academic and career goals, research interests, and reasons for pursuing the program.

  • Standardized Tests: Depending on the program and department, you might need to submit scores from tests like the GRE or GMAT.

  • English Language Proficiency: International applicants might need to provide English language proficiency scores through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.

  • Work Experience (if applicable): Some professional and specialized programs may require relevant work experience.

  • Research Proposal (for research-based programs): If you're applying for a research-based program, you might need to submit a detailed research proposal outlining your intended research area and methodology.

The University of Alberta acceptance rate does not publicly disclose its official acceptance rate. Additionally, acceptance rates can vary significantly based on the program, academic year, and applicant pool.

The University of Alberta is a prestigious institution that attracts a diverse range of applicants from around the world. Its programs are competitive, and admission decisions are based on various factors, including academic achievements, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, personal statements, and more.

University of Alberta Scholarships

Here are the University of Alberta scholarships for international students:

1. Graduate Teaching and Research Assistantships:
Scholarship Name Graduate Teaching and Research Assistantships
Scholarship amount N/A
Details While not scholarships, these assistantships provide graduate students with financial support by offering stipends or salary for their teaching and research contributions.
2. Entrance Scholarships for Transfer Students:
Scholarship Name Entrance Scholarships for Transfer Students:
Scholarship amount N/A
Details Monetary awards for transfer students based on their academic performance at their previous institution.
3. Emergency Funding and Bursaries:
Scholarship Name Emergency Funding and Bursaries
Scholarship amount N/A
Details While not traditional scholarships, emergency funding and bursaries provide financial support to students facing unexpected financial challenges.
4. Faculty-Specific Scholarships:
Scholarship Name Faculty-Specific Scholarships
Scholarship amount N/A
Details Various faculties within the university offer scholarships with monetary value to students who excel in their respective fields of study.
5. Graduate Excellence Scholarship:
Scholarship Name Graduate Excellence Scholarship
Scholarship amount N/A
Details A monetary award for outstanding graduate students who are pursuing research-based master's or doctoral programs.
6. International Country Scholarships:
Scholarship Name International Country Scholarships
Scholarship amount N/A
Details These scholarships offer monetary awards to international students from specific countries, encouraging global diversity and academic excellence.
7. Jason Lang Scholarship and Louise McKinney Post-Secondary Scholarship:
Scholarship Name Jason Lang Scholarship and Louise McKinney Post-Secondary Scholarship
Scholarship amount N/A
Details Alberta government scholarships for undergraduate students with high academic standing, providing financial assistance for tuition costs.
8. President's Doctoral Prize of Distinction:
Scholarship Name President's Doctoral Prize of Distinction:
Scholarship amount N/A
Details A monetary award given to exceptional doctoral students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievements and research contributions.
9. Chancellors' Scholarships:
Scholarship Name Chancellors' Scholarships
Scholarship amount N/A
Details These scholarships offer a substantial monetary award to students with exceptional academic achievements entering their first year of undergraduate studies.
10. University of Alberta Gold Standard Scholarship:
Scholarship Name University of Alberta Gold Standard Scholarship
Scholarship amount N/A
Details A prestigious scholarship that provides recipients with a substantial monetary award, often covering a significant portion of tuition fees.

FAQ's

The acceptance rate at the University of Alberta varies from program to program. However, on average, the university's overall acceptance rate is approximately 50%.

The admission requirements at the University of Alberta vary depending on the program of study. However, most undergraduate programs require a minimum high school GPA and completion of specific high school courses. Graduate programs typically require a minimum undergraduate GPA, references, and a statement of intent.

Yes, the University of Alberta offers a variety of scholarships and awards for both international and domestic students. These scholarships are based on academic merit, financial need, or a combination of both.

The student-to-faculty ratio at the University of Alberta is approximately 30:1. This means that for every 30 students, there is one faculty member.

Yes, the University of Alberta offers on-campus housing to both undergraduate and graduate students. However, availability is limited and priority is given to first-year students.

The average class size at the University of Alberta varies depending on the program of study. However, most undergraduate lectures have approximately 150-200 students, while tutorials and labs typically have 30-40 students.

Yes, the University of Alberta offers co-op programs in various faculties, including engineering, business, and science. These programs allow students to gain work experience in their field of study while earning academic credit

Yes, the University of Alberta has a strong research focus and is one of Canada's leading research-intensive universities. It has over 150 research centers and institutes and is home to several Canada Research Chairs.

The University of Alberta has a variety of sports facilities available to students, including an Olympic-sized swimming pool, ice rinks, a fitness center, and a track and field complex.

The University of Alberta is known for its strong research focus, with strengths in areas such as nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, and environmental science. It also has a reputation for academic excellence, and its business school is ranked among the top five in Canada.

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