University of British Columbia Institute for Resources Environment and Sustainability
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
- N/A
- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Graduate students at IRES join a community of researchers passionate about environmental sustainability and committed to interdisciplinary approaches. The institute's relatively small size fosters close relationships among students and with faculty. Regular seminars, workshops, and informal discussions create intellectual community beyond individual research projects. UBC's Point Grey campus offers one of the most beautiful university settings in the world, with forest, beaches, and mountain views surrounding academic buildings. Campus facilities include libraries, recreation centers, dining options, and student services. The campus community creates a small-town atmosphere within Vancouver's larger urban environment. Vancouver consistently ranks among the world's most livable cities, offering exceptional quality of life through its combination of urban amenities and natural beauty. Mountains, ocean, and forests are accessible within minutes of downtown. The mild Pacific climate enables year-round outdoor activities, though significant rainfall characterizes winter months. Housing costs in Vancouver are among the highest in North America, creating challenges for graduate students. University housing helps mitigate costs, though availability is limited. Many students rent in neighborhoods connected to campus by transit. The cost of living should be carefully considered when planning graduate study at UBC.
Location & Surroundings
UBC's Point Grey campus occupies a peninsula extending into the Strait of Georgia, surrounded by ocean on three sides and separated from Vancouver proper by Pacific Spirit Regional Park. This spectacular setting provides immediate access to beaches, forests, and marine environments while remaining connected to the city by bus and SkyTrain. Vancouver is Canada's third-largest metropolitan area, with a population exceeding 2.5 million. The city's economy spans technology, film production, resource industries, trade, and finance. Vancouver's diverse population reflects its position as a Pacific gateway and destination for immigration from throughout Asia and worldwide. The Vancouver climate is mild and wet, with temperatures moderated by Pacific Ocean influence. Winters are cool and rainy but rarely cold, with snow uncommon at sea level. Summers are warm and dry, with temperatures typically reaching the mid-20s Celsius. The mild climate enables year-round outdoor activities, though winter rain requires appropriate gear. Transportation in Vancouver includes SkyTrain rapid transit, buses, and cycling infrastructure. Many residents live without cars, particularly those in neighborhoods well-served by transit. Vancouver International Airport provides domestic and international connections, with direct flights throughout North America, Asia, and beyond.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Graduate funding at IRES typically combines research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and scholarships to provide full support for doctoral students and competitive support for master's students. Current stipend levels provide adequate living for Vancouver, though housing costs require careful management. International students face additional fees but may access specific scholarship programs. Living costs in Vancouver are significant, with housing representing the largest expense. Graduate students should budget $1,500-2,500 CAD monthly for housing, with total living costs ranging from $18,000-30,000 CAD annually depending on housing choices and lifestyle. The financial demands of Vancouver living should be carefully considered. Scholarships are available through IRES, the university, and external sources including the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) and Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC). Competition for major scholarships is intense, and applications require substantial preparation. Career outcomes for IRES graduates span academia, government, NGOs, consulting, and industry. The interdisciplinary training prepares graduates for diverse roles addressing environmental and sustainability challenges. Alumni work for universities, environmental ministries, international organizations, conservation groups, and private sector organizations throughout Canada and worldwide.
Campus Location
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