Carleton University, Canada’s Capital University, is a dynamic and innovative university with a strong commitment to teaching, research and learning. Our academic programs, campus community, capital location and global possibilities provide countless opportunities for learning to happen both inside and outside of the classroom.

Carleton University is located in Ottawa, a G7 capital city, which offers opportunities you won’t find anywhere else. Known primarily as the seat of Canada’s federal government, Ottawa is that and so much more. It is home to over 130 embassies and high commissions from around the world, as well as numerous national organizations and museums. A large percentage of Canada’s major medical, clinical and life sciences research centres are located in the Ottawa area, as well as a technology industry comprised of over 1,900 companies.

Ottawa is also one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, with a great number of neighbourhood parks and tranquil green spaces, waterways that wind through the city, and historical and architectural landmarks. The magnificent Gatineau Park, which features 165 km of hiking trails, is located in the National Capital Region.

Carleton has a long history of attracting international students to our welcoming and inclusive campus. Today the university has approximately 4,500 international students from 150 countries, creating a diverse and supportive academic community. We are committed to giving back through education while pursuing contributions to the common good. These founding values are at the heart of the university’s focus on research, community partnerships and teaching excellence.

Situated on a beautiful campus just minutes from downtown, Carleton has earned a reputation as one of the foremost universities in the fields of international affairs, commerce, journalism, and high technology. The wide range of nationally and internationally renowned programs offer the flexibility to choose the degree that suits your interests. With over 150 majors and specializations to choose from, Carleton offers 22 undergraduate degree programs across the faculties of Arts and Social Sciences, Business, Engineering and Design, Science and Public Affairs.

Over 30,000 students enjoy our small and interactive classes, state-of-the-art research, laboratory and athletic facilities.

The best learning environments unite theory and practice. Research shows that experiential learning contributes to student engagement, deeper learning, improved academic outcomes, and enhanced work and life skills. At Carleton, we strive to provide students with real-life experiences that bring the classroom to the world and the world to the classroom. We emphasize hands-on research, community engagement, work experience and immersive learning. Many of our programs feature co-op or practicum options, allowing students to develop their skills in a workplace environment. We also encourage undergraduate research, entrepreneurship initiatives and Community Service Learning. Having the paid “real-world” experience serves to compliment all that is taught in the classroom and opens doors of opportunity upon completion of the undergraduate degree.

Extensive residence support network includes live-in residence staff, organized academic programs and social events, a Residence Reception Desk, and university safety staff. In residence, you will have the opportunity to meet people from around the world and make friendships that last a lifetime.

On Campus Housing information: https://admissions.carleton.ca/student-life/residence/.

The Residence Commons has been renamed Teraanga Commons (pronounced tare-ang-gah), a Senegalese name emphasizing generosity of spirit and sharing with all.

If students decide to live off-campus, they should be prepared to spend some time to look for an appropriate place. Information regarding off-campus housing is available on our website: housing.carleton.ca/off-campus-housing.

Carleton students have access to an unparalleled package of academic and co-curricular initiatives designed to support a complete university experience and promote a culture of success. Students have many opportunities to get involved in community-building activities both on and off-campus.

Students can access services and programs dedicated to helping adjust to university life and making sure they get the most out of their Canadian university experience. The International Student Service Office (ISSO) organizes: Orientation; Fun cultural and social activities; Advice on immigration, study permits, health insurance, working in Canada, budgeting and homesickness; and peer mentors who make sure students are making friends, having fun, and finding the help they need.

“Co-op” = paid work experience
The majority of Carleton’s undergraduate programs include a co-operative education option (known as “co-op”). Study terms alternate with paid, full-time work terms that are directly related to your program of study. Students can gain 12 to 16 months of work experience during their degree. Typically an additional year of study is required to complete the co-op option.

Many programs include a work-study component such as a practicum, field placement, field course, apprenticeship or research placement. Carleton also offers an International Internship Program that connects students in all disciplines with internships worldwide for academic credit.

Career Coaches, consultants and counsellors can help students explore talents, interests and skills, and align your degree with a career. They also assist with resume and cover letter reviews, job search strategies, interview preparation, and networking advice. They can organize opportunities such as job shadowing, and provide guidance as students explore graduate studies and professional programs.

Carleton students can take full advantage of first-class athletic facilities, conveniently located in one area of campus. Students can sign up for fitness classes, swim laps in the Olympic size pool, lift weights, run on a treadmill in the 11,000 sq. ft Fitness Centre or get together with friends to play one of your favourite sports during open recreation time. Whatever your level of fitness, you are sure to find something here that suits you. Students can also try out for one of Carleton’s varsity teams, the Carleton Ravens, who compete in: basketball, fencing, football, golf, hockey, nordic skiing, rowing, rugby, soccer and water polo.

Carleton’s extensive network of clubs and societies is another great way to meet new people and pursue interests outside the classroom. With more than 300 active clubs and societies to choose from, students will certainly find a venue for academic, social, political or charitable interests.

For a complete list of all our clubs and societies and their contact information, visit cusaonline.ca.

Carleton and the city of Ottawa offer many cultural opportunities. The Carleton campus boasts an art gallery, a student theatre company, several music ensembles, a student newspaper, and a radio station. Public lectures and weekly concerts are also presented throughout the year. Students can participate in more than 300 special interest clubs, societies, and a student government. Off campus, there is the National Gallery, the National Archives, libraries, museums, embassies, theatres, and much more.

With a comprehensive approach to global outreach, Carleton University attracts students, faculty and researchers from every continent who discover, generate and share transformative knowledge from a global perspective. We partner with universities, governments, industries and organizations to make Carleton University a global hub of intellectual engagement.

Carleton is known as a Canadian university of choice for international students and for encouraging all students to think globally. On campus, you’ll study with student peers from over 150 different countries. Given the education of global citizens requires exposure to international and global experiences, we also offer many opportunities for students to study abroad.

Take a tour of Carleton’s beautiful riverside campus. Explore the classrooms, facilities and services that make our campus an excellent place to study in Canada’s capital city. Stay tuned for more exciting tour stops, including our vibrant residence community, green spaces and scenic river views! https://virtualtour.carleton.ca/carleton/home/featured-tours.

Be sure to visit Carleton’s Virtual Experience, where students can get involved, learn about the benefits of studying at Carleton and ask questions: https://admissions.carleton.ca/carleton-university-virtual-experience/.