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The University of New Brunswick and Keyano College in Fort McMurray, Alta., have partnered to create a new 2+2 Pathway that offers Keyano students an exciting opportunity to advance their education and careers in environmental science and resource management.

Graduates of Keyano’s two-year environmental technology program, in both co-op and non-co-op streams, can now transfer to UNB and complete a bachelor’s degree in just two additional years. This means students can earn a four-year degree while building on the strong foundation they gain at Keyano.

Students can choose to pursue either a bachelor of science in forestry or a bachelor of science in environmental management, which includes specializations in wildlife conservation, water resources management and environmental stewardship.

This pathway gives Keyano students a clear and affordable route to advanced education, combining hands-on experience in Alberta with cutting-edge studies at UNB.

“This partnership is especially meaningful because one of our own UNB alumni now teaches in Keyano’s Environmental Technology program,” said Dr. Michelle Gray, dean of Forestry and Environmental Management at UNB. It’s inspiring to see our graduates training future environmental professionals, and we’re proud to build a pathway that helps those students continue their journey at UNB. We look forward to welcoming Keyano graduates into our programs and supporting their growth as leaders in natural resource and environmental fields.”

Keyano’s environmental technology co-op diploma program is nationally recognized for preparing students to work in environmental science and resource management.

With Alberta’s oil, mining and forestry sectors in focus, students develop practical skills to manage natural resources sustainably. The program combines classroom learning with hands-on lab training, fieldwork and a summer co-op work term, providing real-world experience in environmental monitoring, reclamation and conservation projects.

“We are excited to add this pathway with UNB to our University Studies stream,” said Dr. Coert Erasmus, interim senior dean of Business, University Studies, Academic Upgrading, and Health and Human Services. “This program will provide environmental technology graduates with a pathway to a four-year degree in an exceptional program.”

At UNB, the faculty of forestry and environmental management brings together more than a century of forestry leadership with innovative approaches to environmental management and climate solutions. Students gain applied experience in digital forestry, geospatial analytics, forest science, environmental monitoring and sustainable resource management, preparing them for diverse careers in natural resource sectors, from technology-driven innovation to policy and planning.

About Keyano College

Keyano College, located in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, serves students through its Clearwater Campus and Suncor Energy Industrial Centre in Fort McMurray, AB. The college meets industry training needs and community enrichment by offering certificates, diplomas, trades qualifications, and degrees. Programs span energy, construction, business, health, arts, sciences, education, and more. Dedicated to lifelong learning, Keyano College increases access to post-secondary education, professional development, corporate training, Indigenous education, and Regional Stewardship programs in northeastern Alberta.

About UNB

The University of New Brunswick (UNB) is Canada's oldest English-language university, and New Brunswick’s only national comprehensive university. Founded in 1785, the multi-campus institution has a rich history as well as a dynamic focus on research, innovation, experiential learning and entrepreneurship. UNB welcomes more than 10,000 students from 100 countries to its campuses. With over 100 programs in 14 faculties, UNB helps students acquire the abilities needed to make an impact in their communities.

Media contacts

Kathleen McLaughlin
Media Relations Strategist
University of New Brunswick
media@unb.ca

Ercelan Yazdani
Associate Director of Marketing and Communications
Keyano College
Ercelan.Yazdani@keyano.ca