University of New Brunswick
Canada's oldest English-language university - strong engineering and forestry in a welcoming smaller city.
The University of New Brunswick, founded in 1785, is the oldest English-language university in Canada. Located in Fredericton, UNB is well regarded for engineering, computer science, forestry, and education. It has a strong co-op program and a welcoming, community-focused campus culture.
What average do you need to get into UNB?
There is no single UNB acceptance rate - admission is program-by-program. Top competitive programs like Forestry & Environmental Mgmt require mid-to-high 80s, while programs at the more accessible end admit students with averages around mid 80s. A competitive overall average for most UNB programs is roughly the mid-80s and up. Check the per-program admission averages below to find your target.
Key Facts
- Location: Fredericton, NB
- Founded: 1785
- Students: 10,000
- Maclean's ranking: #8
- QS World ranking: #622
- Approximate domestic tuition: $9000/year
- Co-op available: Yes
Top Strengths
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Forestry
- Education
- Business
- Nursing
Admission Averages by Program
Real admission average ranges for UNB programs, from most accessible to most competitive:
- Civil Engineering — admission average: high 80s (Strong infrastructure program, good Atlantic Canada connections.)
- Electrical Engineering — admission average: high 80s (Good co-op, Fredericton tech sector growing.)
- Mechanical Engineering — admission average: high 80s (Strong co-op, good manufacturing and energy placements.)
- Chemical Engineering — admission average: high 80s (Good program, pulp and paper industry connections.)
- Geodesy & Geomatics Eng. — admission average: high 80s (Unique program in Canada - surveying and mapping engineering.)
- Computer Science — admission average: high 80s (Good co-op, IBM and Spielo offices in Fredericton provide placements.)
- Software Engineering — admission average: high 80s (Strong program, growing Fredericton tech ecosystem.)
- Business Administration (BBA) — admission average: high 80s (Solid Atlantic Canada business program.)
- Nursing (BN) — admission average: high 80s (Strong clinical placement in NB health system.)
- Forestry & Environmental Mgmt — admission average: mid-to-high 80s (One of Canada's most respected forestry programs.)
- Environmental Management — admission average: mid-to-high 80s (Strong sustainability and environmental policy focus.)
- Psychology — admission average: mid-to-high 80s (Solid program with research opportunities.)
- Political Science — admission average: mid 80s (Good for law school and Atlantic public service careers.)
- Education (BEd) — admission average: mid 80s (Well-regarded NB teacher certification.)
- Kinesiology — admission average: mid-to-high 80s (Strong sports science program.)
Things to Know
- UNB is one of the most affordable university experiences in Canada with high-quality engineering and CS programs.
- Fredericton's small size is a genuine advantage for community, safety, and cost of living.
- Co-op placements through UNB often include federal government, tech companies, and engineering firms.
- UNB's forestry and environmental management programs are among Canada's best and often overlooked.
Notable Alumni
- Louis Robichaud
- Dalton Camp
- Antonine Maillet