Prince George, BC – The University of Northern British Columbia is the top university of its size in the country according to annual rankings released today by Maclean’s magazine.

For the first time ever, UNBC is ranked No. 1 in the Primarily Undergraduate category that includes 19 universities.

“This recognition from Maclean’s only supports what the residents of Northern BC already know - that UNBC provides a first-rate education and a foundation for the development of the next generation of leaders for our region, our province and our country,” says UNBC President Dr. Daniel Weeks. “The dedication of our faculty and staff, the achievements of our students and alumni, and the generosity of our donors all contributed to this tremendous accomplishment.”

UNBC finished in the top five in seven different categories including student awards, total research dollars, library acquisitions, student/faculty ratio, faculty awards, operating budget per full-time student, and library expenses.

This year, Maclean’s added a student satisfaction survey, and strong support from UNBC students figured significantly in the outcome. UNBC students gave the University high marks in mental health services, extra-curricular activities and the quality of course instructors.

“As a graduate of UNBC, I recognize the value of a UNBC education, and can echo the sentiment of our current students that pushed us to the top of the national rankings,” says UNBC Board of Governors Chair Ryan Matheson. “On behalf of the Board of Governors, I offer sincere congratulations to the entire UNBC community as well as its supporters and champions.”   

Trent University placed second in the undergraduate rankings and the University of Lethbridge placed third.

Simon Fraser University retained top spot in the Comprehensive category, followed by Waterloo and Victoria. McGill placed first in the Medical Doctoral category, followed by Toronto and UBC.

UNBC had been a runner-up three times in the past, placing second in 2014, 2012 and 2008.

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