With a global reputation for academic excellence, the University of Alberta (U of A) ranks in the top 100 universities in the world and #4 in Canada (QS World University Rankings 2025). From developing cutting-edge AI research to producing Nobel Prize winners, the University of Alberta is known for its high standard of education.
Here are just some reasons why U of A consistently ranks among the global top 100 universities.
Research that you can get involved in
The U of A is a member of the U15, an association of fifteen leading Canadian research universities, cementing its place among the best research universities in the country. The U15 is also part of the Global Network, which includes partners such as the Association of American Universities (AAU) and the Russell Group.
As a U15 member, the U of A attracts world-class professors and faculty who conduct cutting-edge research. Undergraduates can take part in this research through the Undergraduate Research Initiative, which offers the chance to make an impact in your field of study and set you apart from other graduates when you start your career.
166
Royal Society of Canada Fellows
CAD$500m+
in annual research funding
100+
Canada Research Chairs
The University is also home to 18 faculties, centres, and institutes that focus on critical research in:
- Agriculture and food
- Artificial intelligence
- Energy and environment
- Health and wellbeing
The research projects carried out range from examining how climate change affects our oceans to how AI can improve our lives.
Making an impact around the world
Along with developing world-changing research, U of A also ranks highly for addressing some of the world’s biggest challenges when it comes to sustainability.
For example, the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings measure universities against 17 Sustainable Development Goals set out by the United Nations which are assessed based on universities research, stewardship, outreach and teaching. The University of Alberta is #6 in the world and #1 in the Canada for impact overall, but it also ranks highly for several individual goals in the THE Impact Rankings for 2024:
#2 in the world
for marine conservation
#4 in the world
for solving world hunger
#7 in the world
for land conservation
If you’re interested in these areas and are looking to make a global impact, then the University of Alberta has many related degree programs that could be a good fit for you! For example, you could study for a:
- BA in Sustainability Studies, where you can use the analytical skills you’ll learn to encourage change in the world we live in.
- BSc in Conservation Biology, where you’ll learn how to help protect natural spaces so that everyone can benefit.
- BSc in Food Business Management, will give you both scientific and business skills, giving you a wide range of careers to choose from.
Alumni and faculty that make a difference — you could too
Among its alumni and faculty, the University of Alberta has produced three Nobel Prize winners. For instance, Sir Michael Houghton, a virologist who has been at the University since 2010, was jointly award the the prestigious award in 2020 for his work on the Hepatitis C virus.
Alumni from the the University of Alberta have also gone on to make huge contributions to both the Canadian and global economy. Over 75,000 profit and non-profit companies have been founded by alumni, generating over $250B CAD annually.
As a graduate of the University of Alberta, you’ll have fantastic graduate prospects as it is top 100 globally and #6 in Canada for employability after graduation (Times Higher Education Global Employability University Ranking 2025), giving you a head start in your career and the chance to become a world-changing alumni.
Along with your degree program, you’ll benefit from support from the University’s Career Centre, which will help you develop professional skills, increase your knowledge and give you the tools to take chances and try new things that could enhance your career.
Become a world-changer at the University of Alberta
Inspired by the University of Alberta’s world-changing impact? With Kaplan, you’ll get support for admission to the U of A Year One Foundation Program (YOFP), which is the first year of a four-year bachelor’s degree offered in January, May, and September. This program is designed to provide a smooth transition into a top 100 university for international students who don’t yet meet U of A’s entry requirements.
You’ll get dedicated international student support, and after you finish the program, you can progress to second year of over 60+ bachelor’s degree programs. Fill out an application now and one of our expert advisors will be in touch.
