Choosing a university is a big decision. You are making a choice that will affect the next four years of your studies and could have a large impact on where you choose to go after you have graduated. You’ll create a bond with the campus, spark new relationships that will last a lifetime, and enter into a new chapter of life. Ottawa is a great place to do so; it’s a vibrant and beautiful city with many features just waiting to be discovered. With two universities in the city, Carleton University and the University of Ottawa, your decision will likely narrow down to your chosen program and the location of the institution. Student life should also be taken into consideration, as you likely won’t be spending all your time studying.
Let’s take a look at these universities and learn a bit more about them.
Carleton University
Nestled beside Old Ottawa South, the Rideau River and the Rideau Canal, Carleton offers an enclosed campus with a natural community feeling for prospective students. Heavily focused on the student experience, this post-secondary institution consistently ranks in the top five of Maclean’s university rankings comprehensive category. This means that they maintain a considerable amount of research, and plenty of programs, at all degree levels. Carleton is especially recognized for its journalism, public and international affairs, architecture, and technology degree offerings. If you aren’t enticed by the winters in Ottawa, Carleton understands, which is why the grounds have five kilometres of underground tunnels connecting its buildings for easy access in inclement weather.
University of Ottawa
One of the biggest pulls for students considering uOttawa is their bilingualism, as the school is the largest such university in the world. Its central and sprawling downtown location puts students in the heart of Ottawa, near the ByWard Market and Rideau Centre, providing them with plenty of options to explore career options, co-ops, and internships. With extensive options ranging from social sciences to engineering, education and law, the university provides plenty of choices for students who are looking to focus on one field or many, as well as an abundance of continued education opportunities for those looking to pursue a master’s or doctorate. It is also considered one of the top 10 most research-intensive universities in Canada.
How to Find the Best Fit For You
For some, the minute details of the campus will sway them to a certain school. For others, a location will weigh the difference in where they choose to go. Both universities in Ottawa are renowned for their educational impacts, so it might even depend on your program of choice when you pick your top university. The city itself is an accommodating metropolis, with experiences that are sure to make their mark on students no matter where they end up. When considering Carleton or uOttawa, give yourself some grace in your decision, and be sure to trust your instincts. Either option will put you on a path towards a bright future with plenty of educational avenues and employment opportunities.
After you’ve made your decision, or perhaps even before, you’ll likely want to find a place to drop your books and lay your head at the end of the day. Regardless of where you choose to go to school, Envie is here to support students with unique spaces that help you focus on learning and embrace your new lifestyle. Our all-inclusive, student-friendly apartments are of various sizes and always come fully furnished. Situated in convenient locations, with one building right beside uOttawa and two other buildings closer to Carleton, our properties will allow you the opportunity to enjoy luxury while living out your university years. Contact us to learn more about our spaces.