UNB firsts

First English-language university in Canada

We're proud to be the oldest English-language university in Canada – established in 1785.

First engineering program

UNB's Fredericton campus is home to the first engineering program in Canada – established in 1854. We now offer undergraduate programs in chemical, civil, electrical, geological, geomatics, mechanical and software engineering.

First biomedical graduate program

UNB is home to the first graduate program in biomedical engineering in Canada, now part of our internationally acclaimed Institute for Biomedical Engineering, which is home to a regional clinic specializing in upper-limb prosthetics.

First computer science faculty

Canada's first computer science faculty started here at UNB. Our curriculum, research, technology and teaching has been evolving since our innovators purchased their first computer in 1959. The department of computer science was established in 1968/69 and we graduated our first Master of Science in Computer Science student in 1970. We now graduate exceptional computer scientists from both UNB campuses.

First leadership studies bachelor program

UNB's Renaissance College is home to Canada’s first accelerated degree in interdisciplinary leadership. Academic development, practical leadership and critical thinking combine in a comprehensive program that uses experiential education and an outcomes-based curriculum.

First student newspaper

The Brunswickan on UNB's Fredericton campus is Canada's oldest official student publication, publishing since 1867. The Baron is the independent newspaper of UNB's Saint John campus.

Pitch your "UNB First" idea to brand@unb.ca