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Dean's Message


The Irving K. Barber School of Arts & Sciences is a place to explore who you are and to discover how best to make your imprint on the world. There are endless possibilities of where to dedicate your time and talents; our job is to supply the knowledge, the resources and most important, the inspiration.

We have energetic faculty who will inspire you in the classroom and through research mentorship. They seek solutions to many of the problems we face today – be it genocide, species at risk or freshwater management - and students can join them in this quest. Our staff are creating a dynamic and supportive place, one where the small campus context can make a real difference. We’re on the move, and whether your role is that of student, faculty member, or staff, we are committed to helping you reach your potential.

Come join us, and get inspired.

Cynthia Mathieson, PhD
Dean, Irving K. Barber School of Arts & Sciences
Professor, Psychology
UBC Okanagan

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Get Inspired

Dr. Cynthia Mathieson is a professor of psychology and the dean of the Irving K. Barber School of Arts & Sciences. She obtained a doctorate in psychology from the University of Calgary and holds master's degrees in English and psychology. Her area of research focuses on narrative analysis and qualitative approaches to women's health. She has received numerous awards for teaching and research excellence including the Association of Atlantic Universities Distinguished Teacher Award and the Progress Women of Excellence Award (in the education and research category).

a place of mind, The University of British Columbia