Northern Studies

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

Embark on a unique academic journey with the Northern Studies Bachelors Degree at the University of Northern British Columbia, a program designed for those fascinated by the complex realities of the circumpolar north. This field is critical, addressing global challenges in resource extraction, climate change impacts, and Indigenous rights, making your expertise highly relevant. You will explore the distinct socio-economic, cultural, political, and physical environments of this vital region, developing a comprehensive understanding of its global significance. This undergraduate degree is ideal for students eager to engage with interdisciplinary topics and contribute to understanding and managing northern territories.

This full-time, on-campus program is studied over four years, offering a deep dive into northern environments and peoples through core courses like Introduction to the Circumpolar North and Contemporary Issues in the Circumpolar North. You will have the opportunity to specialise in areas such as Environment and Health or Culture and People, engaging with subjects like ethnobotany, Indigenous geographies, and environmental economics. The curriculum encourages practical application, with potential for an optional semester abroad through exchange agreements. You will graduate with a robust understanding of northern dynamics, prepared for careers in government, non-governmental organizations, resource management, and international development.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of the Northern regions, encompassing their diverse environments, cultures, and contemporary issues. Students will engage with core concepts of the Circumpolar North, delve into its lands and peoples, and examine pressing contemporary challenges. The curriculum also provides opportunities to specialize in areas such as environment and health, or culture and people, alongside methodological training and elective breadth.

1 Core Courses

Introduction to the Circumpolar North
Lands and Environments of the Circumpolar North 1
Lands and Environments of the Circumpolar North 2
Peoples and Cultures of the Circumpolar World 1
Peoples and Cultures of the Circumpolar World 2
Contemporary Issues in the Circumpolar North 1
Contemporary Issues in the Circumpolar North 2

2 Environment and Health

Human Adaptability and Environmental Stress
British Columbia Archaeology
Plants, Society and the Environment
Ethnobotany
Plant Ecology
Environmental Economics and Environmental Policy
Environmental Impact Assessment
Snow and Ice
Public Engagement for Sustainability
Aboriginal Resource Planning
First Nations Health and Healing
Indigenous Environmental Philosophy
Soil Formation and Classification
Health Geography
Indigenous Geographies of Climate Resilience
Northern Communities
Special Topics in Health Sciences
Health Promotion
Global Environmental Change
Special Topics in Northern Studies
Independent Research/Directed Reading in Northern Studies
Aboriginal Perspectives on Land and Resource Management

3 Culture and People

Medical Anthropology
Ethnography in Northern British Columbia
Archaeological Heritage Management
British Columbia Ethnography
British Columbia Archaeology
Ethnographic Field Methods
Ethnographic Research Project
Traditional Use Studies
Northern BC in the Global Economy
Indigenous Literature in Canada and the United States
Special Topics in Indigenous Literature
Northern BC Literature
Contemporary Challenges Facing Aboriginal Communities
Indigenous Women: Perspectives
Law and Indigenous Peoples
Indigenous Geographies of Climate Resilience
Northern Communities
History of Indigenous People of Canada
Special Topics in Northern Studies
Independent Research/Directed Reading in Northern Studies
Municipal Government and Politics
Community Development
Comparative Federalism
Comparative Northern Development
Resource Communities in Transition

4 Methodology

Qualitative Methods
Ecological Analyses
Statistics for Business and the Social Sciences
Social Research Methods
Perspectives in First Nations Studies
Research Methods in First Nations Studies
Introduction to GIS
Cartography and Geomatics
Geography Field School

5 Elective and Academic Breadth

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,542.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,542.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,542.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,542.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 78,169.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 530.00 - USD 1,716.00
Food & Groceries USD 5,634.00 - USD 6,068.00
Transport USD 521.00 - USD 694.00
Utilities & Bills USD 867.00 - USD 1,301.00
Estimated Total USD 7,022.00 - USD 8,063.00

Living cost estimates are based on Prince George Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

89%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Curriculum & Instructional DesignEdTech & E-LearningEducational Support ServicesElectrical & Mechanical InstallationFinancial Technology (Fintech)Forestry & LoggingMaritime & ShippingNursing & Allied HealthSupply Chain & Freight ManagementTransport Engineering & Infrastructure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BC Public Service

Carrier Sekani Family Services

City of Prince George

College of New Caledonia

Government of ALberta

Government of Canada

SLR Consulting

The University of British Columbia

Why Study Northern Studies at University of Northern British Columbia

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at University of Northern British Columbia in Canada

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Northern Studies at University of Northern British Columbia

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 24 hours per week during term time and unlimited hours during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for on-campus work.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English language test requirements include a Duolingo score of 105 across all sections, or equivalent scores for TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE. Prepare according to the specific test format to meet these requirements.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers such as northern development specialist, conservation officer, social services worker, government analyst, and resource manager.

What will I actually study in this course?

In the Northern Studies program, you will explore the socio-economic and political environments of the circumpolar north. The curriculum focuses on issues like Indigenous rights and climate change, making it globally significant.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

Intake for the Northern Studies program occurs in September each year. Make sure to prepare your application ahead of time to join this unique program.
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