2027 Admissions to MEL in High Performance Buildings and MEL in Urban Systems are paused as we redesign the program for relaunch in 2028, with expanded flexible full-time and part-time options. Current students are not affected. Details to be announced fall 2026.
TRANSFORM THE FUTURE IN A RAPIDLY EVOLVING INDUSTRY
Elevate your career to new heights with the Master of Engineering Leadership (MEL) in Urban Systems, an advanced degree crafted for visionary system thinkers eager to tackle complex challenges in infrastructure. This unique interdisciplinary program merges the rigor of graduate-level engineering and urban planning with the business acumen from UBC Sauder’s Robert H. Lee Graduate School. Equip yourself with the multifaceted skills essential for spearheading innovation necessary to build resilient cities.
Organizations across the public and private sectors are on the lookout for urban planners and engineers who not only possess technical and strategic abilities but also understand the intricate balance of social, environmental, and financial aspects in the built environment. They seek leaders with a holistic view and the interpersonal skills to lead teams and catalyze change effectively.
BLEND TECHNICAL EXPERTISE WITH BUSINESS INSIGHTS
The MEL in Urban Systems stands out with its rare blend of in-depth technical and business courses, preparing you to play a pivotal role in progressive organizations. Delve into a curriculum that covers the entire industry spectrum—from understanding the societal context of infrastructure to mastering engineering design, project delivery, and asset management. The business courses, led by the esteemed UBC Sauder’s Robert H. Lee Graduate School, lay a robust foundation in business strategy, innovation, project management, and leadership.
FLEXIBLE LEARNING OPTIONS
Tailor your educational journey to fit your lifestyle and career goals with the option to enrol full-time over 12 months or part-time over 24 months. The full-time program allows you to immerse yourself completely in learning, propelling your skills forward within a year. Opting for part-time lets you balance your part-time employment with your studies, applying your newfound knowledge directly to your current role while discussing real-life technical and leadership challenges in class. This format also provides the chance to expand your professional network over two years, with on-campus commitments just two weekdays each week.
GAIN A COMPETITIVE EDGE
Throughout the 12 or 24-month program, you will:
For specific program requirements, please refer to the departmental program website
Embark on a transformative journey with UBC’s Master of Engineering Leadership (MEL) in Urban Systems.
STEP INTO A LEADERSHIP ROLE OR PIVOT INTO A NEW INDUSTRY
Embark on a transformative journey with the MEL degree, designed to propel you into leadership roles and navigate seamlessly across the built environment. This degree serves as a launchpad to a future brimming with elevated responsibilities and exciting new career possibilities. Our statistics speak volumes about the impact of this program: a remarkable 61% of our alumni have ascended to higher positions, while 88% have ventured into new career paths. The MEL degree is not just an educational experience; it’s a catalyst for professional reinvention and advancement.
ENHANCE YOUR TECHNICAL PROFICIENCY
Delve into the pivotal elements of designing, constructing, managing, and renewing built infrastructure. This program equips you with a comprehensive technical understanding necessary for strategic decision-making, addressing the intricate interdependencies inherent in urban infrastructure systems.
MASTER THE FUNDAMENTALS OF BUSIESS
Beyond technical expertise, grasp the essential language of business through courses offered by the esteemed UBC Sauder’s Robert H. Lee Graduate School. Build a solid foundation in broad-based management concepts, preparing you to navigate and lead in the business world effectively.
DEVELOP LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE
Leadership skills are woven into every aspect of the MEL degree. As a student, you will find yourself immersed in a variety of leadership-building experiences. This includes leading diverse teams and managing complex projects. You will have the opportunity to attend a series of professional development workshops, each carefully crafted to refine and enhance your leadership abilities and interpersonal skills. These experiences are not just educational, but transformative, equipping you with the confidence and competence to emerge as an influential and effective leader in your field.
OBTAIN A PRESTIGIOUS DEGREE FROM A TOP-RANKED UNIVERSITY
UBC is globally recognized as a top 40 university and stands 7th in the world for climate action, celebrated for its exceptional programs and distinguished faculty. Its Faculty of Applied Science is home to Canada’s top engineering school. UBC’s Sauder School of Business is the best business school in Canada and ranks 38th worldwide, offering experiential and rigorous business education.
BUILD A POWERFUL NETWORK
Joining the MEL in Urban Systems program means expanding your network significantly. You’ll learn from world-renowned faculty and study alongside motivated peers, enriching your educational experience with diverse perspectives. Engage with students from various professional graduate programs, attend workshops and presentations by industry leaders, and immerse yourself in an environment where innovation thrives.