Carleton University

Quick Facts about Carleton University

• Founded: 1942
• Type: Public
• Students: 30,713
• Campus: Urban
• Tuition: $25,000 – $39,000/year
• Language: English
• Intakes: January, September

About Carleton University

Academics

Carleton University offers a wide array of academic programs across five faculties: Arts and Social Sciences, Engineering and Design, Public Affairs, Science, and the Sprott School of Business. The university provides 26 bachelor's degree programs with over 150 majors, allowing students to customize their education. Carleton emphasizes experiential learning, combining theory with practical application through co-op programs, internships, and research opportunities. Notable programs include journalism, engineering, public affairs, and international affairs.

International Students

Carleton University is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for international students through its Global Opportunities & International Student Services Office (GO-ISSO). This office provides various services, including transition support, immigration advising for study permits, and assistance with the University Health Insurance Plan. Carleton's student body is diverse, with 15% international students from over 150 different countries. The university offers English-taught programs and provides resources for English language proficiency. International students can also engage in numerous cultural organizations and events, promoting cultural integration and a vibrant campus life.

Campus & Location

Carleton University boasts a beautiful riverside campus bordered by the Rideau River and Canal, offering ample green space. Located in Ottawa, Canada's capital city, students have access to a wealth of resources including federal government institutions, national galleries, museums, and a thriving high-tech sector often referred to as "Silicon Valley North." Ottawa is recognized as a student-friendly, safe, and welcoming city with a high quality of life, numerous festivals, and affordable living options. On-campus housing is guaranteed for eligible first-year international students, with 12 residence buildings offering various living styles and amenities.

Career Outcomes

Carleton University is highly committed to preparing students for successful careers, ranking #10 for employment outcomes among Canadian universities. The university offers extensive career services, including resume help, interview practice, and job search strategies. Carleton's co-op programs provide valuable paid work experience with leading organizations such as Microsoft, IBM, Amazon, and Deloitte. The International Student Employment Program (ISEP) specifically assists international students in navigating the Canadian labor market and securing paid experiential learning opportunities. Graduates benefit from strong industry connections, particularly in Ottawa's high-tech and public sectors.

Information for International Students at Carleton University

Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada welcomes international students.

• No visa support offered
• No on-campus work
• Student housing available
• Work placement / internship opportunities available
• Teaching languages: English

Admissions Requirements for Carleton University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Carleton University:

• IELTS minimum: 6.5
• TOEFL minimum: 80
• Duolingo minimum: 120
• GPA minimum: 2.7
• Selectivity: Selective (20-40%)

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Programs at Carleton University (20 programs)

Carleton University offers 20 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (10)

• Architectural Studies (BAS) — 48 months · English · STEM
  This program provides a comprehensive foundation in architectural design, history, theory, and technology, preparing students for professional practice or further graduate studies in architecture.
  Field: Architecture
  Career outcomes: Architectural Designer, Urban Planner, Heritage Consultant
• Journalism (BJ) — 48 months · English
  Students develop skills in news gathering, reporting, writing, and multimedia production across various platforms, preparing them for careers in traditional and digital media.
  Field: Journalism
  Career outcomes: Journalist, Editor, Content Creator, Broadcast Reporter
• Economics (BA) — 48 months · English
  Students analyze how societies allocate scarce resources, studying microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and various economic policies and theories.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Policy Advisor, Market Researcher
• Aerospace Engineering (BEng) — 48 months · English · STEM
  This program focuses on the design, analysis, and manufacturing of aircraft and spacecraft, covering aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, and flight mechanics.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Aerospace Engineer, Aircraft Designer, Systems Engineer
• Biochemistry (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
  This program explores the chemical processes within living organisms, covering molecular biology, metabolism, and genetics, preparing students for research or health-related fields.
  Field: Science
  Career outcomes: Biochemist, Research Scientist, Pharmacologist, Medical Laboratory Technologist
• Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
  Students learn fundamental concepts of computing, including programming, algorithms, data structures, and software engineering, with options for specialization in various areas like artificial intelligence or game development.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst
• Civil Engineering (BEng) — 48 months · English · STEM
  Students learn to design, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects such as buildings, bridges, roads, and water systems, focusing on sustainability and safety.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager, Urban Planner
• Business Administration (BCom) — 48 months · English
  This program offers a broad understanding of business functions, including marketing, finance, accounting, and management, with opportunities for specialization and practical experience.
  Field: Business
  Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Financial Analyst, Accountant, Business Consultant
• Public Affairs and Policy Management (BPAPM) — 48 months · English
  Students analyze public policy issues, governance, and political processes, developing skills in policy analysis, research, and communication for careers in government and non-profit sectors.
  Field: Public Affairs
  Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Government Relations, Public Administrator, Advocacy Officer
• Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English
  This program explores human behavior and mental processes through scientific inquiry, covering areas such as cognitive, developmental, social, and clinical psychology.
  Field: Psychology
  Career outcomes: Research Assistant, Social Worker, Human Resources Specialist, Counsellor

Master Programs (7)

• Master of Architecture (MArch) — 24 months · English · STEM
  This professional degree program builds upon undergraduate architectural studies, focusing on advanced design studios, theoretical inquiry, and specialized topics in architecture.
  Field: Architecture
  Career outcomes: Licensed Architect, Urban Designer, Architectural Researcher
• Master of Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
  This advanced program deepens understanding in specialized areas of computer science, including artificial intelligence, software engineering, and data science, through coursework and research.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, AI Researcher, Data Scientist, Academia
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) — 20 months · English
  The MBA program develops strategic leadership and management skills, covering core business disciplines and offering specializations in areas like finance, marketing, or technology management.
  Field: Business
  Career outcomes: Business Leader, Consultant, Entrepreneur, Senior Manager
• Master of Arts in English (MA) — 12 months · English
  This program allows students to pursue advanced literary and critical studies, exploring various periods, genres, and theoretical approaches in English literature.
  Field: English Literature
  Career outcomes: Educator, Editor, Writer, Communications Specialist
• Master of Arts in Public Policy and Administration (MA) — 24 months · English
  This program provides advanced training in public policy analysis, development, and implementation, preparing students for leadership roles in government, non-profits, and international organizations.
  Field: Public Policy
  Career outcomes: Senior Policy Advisor, Public Sector Manager, Consultant, International Development Specialist
• Master of Engineering (Aerospace) (MEng) — 24 months · English · STEM
  This program offers advanced studies in aerospace engineering, focusing on specialized topics such as aircraft design, propulsion systems, and space technology, often with a project or thesis component.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Aerospace Systems Engineer, Research and Development Engineer, Project Lead
• Master of Journalism (MJ) — 12 months · English
  This program provides advanced training in journalistic practice, ethics, and theory, with a focus on digital storytelling, investigative reporting, and media innovation.
  Field: Journalism
  Career outcomes: Senior Journalist, Media Producer, Communications Specialist, Editor

PhD Programs (3)

• PhD in Psychology (PhD) — 48 months · English
  The PhD in Psychology offers advanced research opportunities in various sub-disciplines, including cognitive, developmental, social, and clinical psychology, leading to original scholarly contributions.
  Field: Psychology
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Clinical Psychologist, Research Director, Consultant
• PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
  This doctoral program involves advanced research in electrical and computer engineering, contributing new knowledge in areas such as telecommunications, microelectronics, or intelligent systems.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, R&D Engineer, Innovator
• PhD in Economics (PhD) — 48 months · English
  The PhD in Economics offers rigorous training in economic theory and econometrics, preparing students for academic or research careers in economics and related fields.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Economist (Government/Private Sector), Research Fellow

Scholarships & Tuition at Carleton University

Annual tuition for international students: $25,000 – $39,000/year

✅ Carleton University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Carleton University

• National Ranking: #4 in Canada
• QS World University Ranking: #781
• Times Higher Education (THE): #501
• Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #501
• Ranking tier: Research University
• Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at Carleton University

• Student housing available
• Sports facilities available
• Disability support available
• Campus type: Urban

Key Highlights

• Canada's Capital University in Ottawa
• Leader in journalism and communications
• Extensive underground heated tunnel system
• Top-tier engineering and aerospace programs
• Strong focus on experiential learning
• High-ranking international affairs and public policy

Accreditation

• Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security (MCURES) of the Province of Ontario
• Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board of Engineers Canada
• Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB)
• Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International)
• Network of International Business Schools (NIBS)
• Accreditation Council of the Canadian Information Processing Society
• Canadian Society for Chemistry
• Statistical Society of Canada (SSC)
• Canadian Association of Social Work Education

Notable Alumni

• Dan Aykroyd
• Peter Jennings
• Norm Macdonald
• Rob Ford
• John Manley

Frequently Asked Questions about Carleton University

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