General information

More information Before you apply, read up on the definitions of different university degrees -> Don't know the difference between a university and a university college? Read on ->

Canada's universities - A profile of your higher education options

The provinces and territories are responsible for all levels of education including universities. There's no federal ministry of education or formal accreditation system. Instead, membership in the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada, coupled with the university's provincial government charter, is generally deemed the equivalent. Currently, there are 95 universities with membership in AUCC.

Academic programs

Universities offer programs that range from fine art, biology and commerce to astronomy, media studies and religion. Currently, there are more than 10,000 undergraduate and graduate degree programs offered in Canada as well as professional degree programs and certificates. Regardless of the program, a Canadian degree is globally recognized and considered equivalent to those from American and other Commonwealth universities.

Academic quality

Canadian universities receive a great deal of public funds and so their programs, particularly at the undergraduate level, are uniform in quality. And while Canadian universities design their own missions and pursue their own futures, they consistently demonstrate a remarkable ability to cooperate with one another and work collectively.

University size and character

Each university has a style all its own. You can study at a large, research-intensive campus in an urban centre, or if you'd prefer, you can enrol at a small liberal arts institution with a focus on undergraduate education, where most of the students live in residence.

Language and enrolment options

Canada has English language and French language institutions with some universities offering instruction in both official languages.

Many universities offer full-time and part-time enrolment as well as opportunities to participate in co-operative education, distance learning, continuing education and student exchange programs.

Services and programs for students

Canadian universities are much more than academic institutions; they also provide support and opportunities for their students through a wide range of services and resources. University life extends beyond the lecture hall or lab to include:

• student exchange programs (study abroad for part of your degree)
• first-year student programs (orientation week, study skills workshops, counselling)
• academic and campus services (bookstore, career placement centre, academic advisors)
• financial assistance (entrance scholarships and bursaries)
• athletics (recreational, inter-university teams, fitness centres)

Students also have access to career, personal or academic counsellors and can get help with medical concerns or resolving housing issues. Many universities also have services for students with specific needs, such as single parents, women, those with physical, sensory or learning disabilities, aboriginal students, part-time students, gays and lesbians, mature students and students of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

Universities as part of the community

Our universities also play a vital part in their local communities - offering concerts and plays, day care centres, sports and fitness facilities, lectures, museums, on-campus radio stations and art galleries. Together, our universities make up a diverse, vibrant, dynamic and high quality system. Visit a university -­ either in person or online -­ to see for yourself how varied and enriching their offerings can be for you.

Your career - A key reason for attending a Canadian university

No matter what you study, or where, attending a Canadian university helps you prepare for a rewarding career. For Canadians, higher education is considered the ticket to future success because a university education translates into new skills, better prospects and higher salaries.

Now, and even more in the future, a postsecondary education - a university degree, a college diploma or some combination of the two - will help you get a great job. University also prepares you for the challenges you will face throughout your life. Going to university will help you learn how to solve problems, think critically and creatively, present your ideas persuasively, work in teams, and make effective decisions - all attributes that are in high demand from today's top employers.