The built environment in a winter climate: improving university campus design for student wellbeing

Abstract

ABSTRACT Like urban environments, the campus built environment can influence general wellbeing of students. At the same time, campuses are their own unique form and need to be analysed in their own way. This study identifies elements of the campus built environment that contribute to student wellbeing, including urban design qualities, considerations of safety and accessibility, and winter design strategies. Using the University of Alberta North Campus as a case study, evaluation criteria synthesised from a literature scan are used to assess Quad. This research identifies key design interventions and policy recommendations that are broadly applicable to northern university campuses. By exploring relationships between the university campus built environment and student wellbeing, we can gain insight into how to create an environment that promotes a sense of positive wellbeing for students. Such environments can contribute to better student success rates through higher academic performance, student retention, and graduation rates.