University of Prince Edward Island
The only university on Prince Edward Island, the University of Prince Edward Island 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. 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.
“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. UPEI’s large international exchange program includes exchange agreements with universities in 30 countries, and students at the school come from 96 countries. The student union pairs Canadian students with international students through the UPEI international buddy program to help them feel at home. At the heart of UPEI’s 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.
Campus buzz: A new residence building, originally constructed as the Athletes Village for the 2023 Canada Winter Games, is now open for students. In addition to two towers of apartments, the building also has classroom space and a 400-seat theatre.
Quick facts
Tuition (includes compulsory ancillary fees)
$8,017
Minimum Entering Grades
Arts: 71% | Science: 70% | Commerce: 72% | Engineering: 76%
Student Body
Undergraduates: Full-time: 4,536 | Part-time: 335
Graduates: Full-time: 546
Housing Facts
Residence Spaces: 810 (650 reserved for first-year students)
Cost of double room with meals: $11,004 to $12,666
Cost of single room with meals: $12,518 to $13,866
Cost of apartment-style: $5,450 to $8,200
Standout programs
Applied Climate Change and Adaptation: Students develop scientific knowledge and learn to use advanced technology, including virtual reality simulations, drones, and big data analytics, to address climate challenges around food security, coastal protection, health and more.
Diversity and Social Justice Studies: Explore theories about identity categories such as gender, disability and race and their relationship to power, and examine what social justice looks like in theory and practice.
Sustainable Design Engineering: Students gain a solid technical foundation as well as professional skills. Design clinics, integrated through all years of the program, provide project-based, hands-on learning
