University of Alberta

Student life

Alongside your studies, there are many opportunities to gain new experiences through sport, international exchanges and by joining one of more than 425 student societies. With a thriving campus community and a wide range of extracurricular activities, students have ample opportunities to connect  with peers, pursue their interests, and engage in meaningful experiences outside the classroom. 

Whether you're passionate about environmental sustainability, entrepreneurship, arts and culture, or sports and recreation, there's a club or organisation for you. These student-led groups provide opportunities for leadership development, networking, and community engagement, fostering a sense of belonging and community among students from diverse backgrounds. There are also opportunities to study at partner institutions around the world, at leading research universities including through the Worldwide Universities Network – a consortium of 23 universities.

Sporting facilities and communities are second to none with the University of Alberta Golden Bears and Pandas Athletics recognised as one of Canada's premier intercollegiate programmes. Students compete in the Canada West conference, which resides under the U SPORTS national body, and is home to 24 teams  and over 475 student-athletes. Sports which the University of Alberta competes in include basketball, curling, football, golf, ice hockey, rugby, soccer, swimming, tennis, track & field, volleyball, and wrestling.
There is also a strong programme of recreational sport.

Beyond extracurricular activities, the University of Alberta offers numerous support services and resources to enhance student wellbeing and success. From academic advising and counselling services to health and wellness programmes, students have access to comprehensive support systems designed to  help them thrive personally and academically.

Research

At the University of Alberta, research serves as the cornerstone of academic exploration. Leveraging state-of-the-art facilities and resources, researchers delve into complex inquiries spanning health and life sciences, energy solutions, artificial intelligence advancements, and beyond. From unravelling the  mysteries of human health to pioneering breakthroughs in sustainable technologies, the university's research endeavours make profound contributions to both academia and society at large.

With 91 Canada Research Chairs, the institution attracts world-class scholars and scientists who lead groundbreaking research projects that shape the future of their respective fields. With over £500 million in annual research funding in 2019, their researchers have the resources necessary to tackle grand challenges and pursue ambitious initiatives that drive progress and innovation. 

With over 120 active spinoff companies, the institution has a strong track record of translating research discoveries into real-world applications and commercial ventures. These spinoff companies exemplify the university's dedication to knowledge mobilisation and technology transfer, catalysing economic growth  and societal advancement.