Program Overview

Introduction to the Wood Products Major

The global demand for sustainable and innovative wood products with a lower carbon footprint is on the rise, making the Wood Products major a standout opportunity for future leaders in the forest products industry. This program is perfect for young individuals passionate about solving problems and eager to delve into engineering concepts, sustainable design, and production.

Program Overview

The curriculum provides a comprehensive and engaging learning experience, integrating materials science, engineering principles, design theory, manufacturing, and business skills, all with a keen focus on wood-based bioproducts and construction solutions. For students enthusiastic about addressing real-world challenges, this program not only explores the intricacies of wood as a material but also empowers students to design functional and sustainable products.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will gain an in-depth understanding of wood as a climate-friendly building material, learning to optimize its use in construction, manufacturing, and engineering contexts. They will also explore the innovative potential of products that meet emerging commercial needs. The program provides access to Canada’s national centre of excellence in wood products education, hosted by the UBC Department of Wood Science and its Centre for Advanced Wood Processing, which are renowned global leaders in wood products science and engineering.

Key Topics

• Implementation of sustainable building practices
• Data generation and management for modern applications
• Optimization of supply chain operations
• Cutting-edge product design and manufacturing processes
• Mastery of computer-aided design & manufacturing (CAD/CAM) for precision engineering
• Industrial process optimization for efficiency and innovation
• In-depth studies in biomaterials science and technology

Additional Opportunities

Minor in Commerce

The optional Minor in Commerce offered through the UBC Sauder School of Business gives students the opportunity to explore concepts from business, science, and engineering with a cohort of like-minded peers.

Dual Degree Option

Earn a Bachelor of Natural Resources in Wood Products and a Master of Management in 4.5 years with the Forestry Dual Degree program.

Land One Option

The Land One program is a great option for first-year students who want a smaller classroom experience. Learn about forest management and food security in a tight-knit cohort environment.

Co-op Option

Apply for the Forestry Co-op Program to gain paid work experience related to your degree and acquire the experience necessary to launch your career. Co-op students have the added benefit of further opportunities to connect with leaders in the sector.

CORS Diploma

Wood Products students and alumni are eligible to receive a diploma from the Canadian Operational Research Society (CORS). This non-UBC diploma is an additional credential for those interested in pursuing a career in operational research, modelling, data analytics, and related fields.

Program Details

• Program length: 4 years, full-time
• Academic year: September - April
• Location: UBC Vancouver Campus
• Tuition (Year 1 - 2024/25):
  • Canadian students: $6,079.20 CAD
  • International students: $51,040.50 CAD

This major is not just an academic pursuit but a pathway to becoming a pioneer in sustainable innovation, equipped to tackle the challenges of today’s and tomorrow’s forest products industry.