Gain the foundation you need to succeed
UBC Engineering’s foundation year prepares you with a strong knowledge base from which to build a solid and rewarding academic and professional career.
Along with other first-year engineering students, you’ll take courses in math, chemistry, physics and communication to gain the fundamental knowledge you need to succeed as an engineer.
The heart of our program is two engineering classes where you’ll learn how to think like an engineer – to use your problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to solve real-world problems and challenges. Weekly design studios bring it all together as you apply the knowledge you are using in your other core classes to work on engineering design projects.
Vancouver's First Year Curriculum
Okanagan's First Year Curriculum
These classes also introduce you to the 14 specialized engineering programs offered for students at the Vancouver campus and four programs for students at the UBC Okanagan campus. If you’re like many students entering first year and are unsure about what path you want to take, these classes will help you make an informed decision about which engineering specialization is the best fit for you.
See the 14 engineering programs
Visit the UBC Academic Calendar for the first-year curriculum course listing or check out our course planning page for more information on degree requirements.
Learn more about the first year classes
Life after first year
With this solid foundation in place, you’ll apply for the specialized engineering program you want to study at the end of your foundation year.
Second and third year offer other exciting opportunities, including pursuing a minor or dual degree, paid work experience (such as co-op or research work experience), studying or working internationally, and getting more involved in student clubs and teams.
