University of Prince Edward Island
Founded 1804 | Charlottetown, PE
The only university on Prince Edward Island, UPEI has nine faculties, including veterinary medicine, business, nursing and the faculty of Indigenous knowledge, education, research and applied studies. All first-year students have to choose one of three mandatory courses: writing studies, inquiry studies or university studies. Having 58 exchange agreements with universities in 30 countries, UPEI’s international exchange program can hold its own with those found at larger schools. In keeping with efforts to internationalize, students hail from 96 countries. The student union pairs Canadian students with international students through the UPEI international buddy program to help them feel at home.
“We are passionate about providing our students—the global leaders of the future—with top-quality education in a safe and inclusive environment, as well as contributing to the betterment of society through innovation and collaboration,” says interim president Greg Keefe. The Canadian Centre for Climate Change and Adaptation houses the Climate Research Lab and serves as a living lab, giving students access to nearby wetlands, forests and coastal habitats affected by climate change. At the heart of campus is the historic quadrangle, known for its distinctive red-brick buildings. Surrounding modern structures include a recreation centre with a 25-metre pool and two NHL-sized rinks. The southeastern part of campus borders on the farmers’ market, and Brackley Beach is just a short distance away.
Standout Programs
• Sustainable Design Engineering: Students gain a solid technical foundation as well as professional skills. Design clinics, integrated through all years of the program, provide hands-on learning.
• Diversity and Social Justice Studies: Explore theories about identity categories—such as gender and race—and their relationship to power, and examine what social justice looks like in theory and practice.
• Applied Climate Change and Adaptation: Students develop scientific knowledge and technical skills, learning to address climate challenges around food security, coastal protection, health, and more.
Tuition (includes compulsory ancillary fees)
$7,672
Minimum Entering Grades
Arts: 70% | Science: 70% | Commerce: 71% | Engineering: 71%
Student Body
Undergraduates: Full-time: 4,406 | Part-time: 382
Graduates: Full-time: 506
International Students: First-year: 26.4% | Graduate: 24.7%
Male-Female Ratio: 40 to 60
Housing Facts
Residence Spaces: 444 (approx. 200 reserved for first-year students) Residence Costs: Double room with meals: $10,426 to $12,457
Single room with meals: $11,896 to $12,817
Apartment-style: $6,950
Cool Courses
• Media and Pop Culture in South Korea: Explore how digital media platforms influence Korean society, economy and politics.
• Mi’kmaq Foodways: Learn about Mi’kmaq recipes, as well as cultural teachings about food and its use in ceremonies.