March 27, 2004 For Immediate Release

The Board of Governors has approved a number of new programs that will expand educational opportunities for students interested in business, health care, and the life sciences.

The Board has approved a Diploma in Business Administration, which is the first stage in the proposed Master's of Business Administration (MBA) program. Students undertaking the diploma will be introduced to the major areas within business studies, building on the broad base of skills required by senior management. The program will start in August, with all courses transferable to completing the MBA.

The new BSc degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology is a four year program of study combining aspects of Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Molecular Biology. The degree will provide students with a thorough understanding of the life sciences, suitable for advanced study in areas such as genomics, biotechnology, or medicine (including the Northern Medical Program). While the new degree will strengthen UNBC's offerings in the life and health sciences, it will also support BC's biotechnology community, which is the fastest-growing in Canada.

New offerings in Aboriginal Health Sciences will focus on techniques and knowledge that reinforce traditional health knowledge while providing exposure to courses in the health sciences. A certificate (10 courses; the equivalent of one year of full-time study) and a diploma (20 courses; two years of full-time study) will both be offered. The new courses in such areas as Aboriginal Medicines, Aboriginal Health Management, and Aboriginal Healing Practices will be taught by Aboriginal health practitioners together with UNBC professors to strengthen links between the program and the community. The program is unique in Canada and the first cohort of students is in Vanderhoof.