Institutes / Universities
Carleton University
Ranking
25Established in
1942Famous For
Economics, Business, Architecture
- Overview
- Services
- Rankings
- Accommodation
- Location
- Courses
- Scholarships
Overview
Carleton University is a public research institution located in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada’s capital city. Founded in 1942 as Carleton College, it began as a non-denominational evening college created to support returning World War II veterans. Today, Carleton occupies a scenic campus bordered by the Rideau River and the Rideau Canal, offering students a distinctive blend of natural surroundings and urban accessibility.
The University is organised into six faculties and offers more than 65 degree programmes, with over 200 career-focused options that span disciplines such as engineering, public affairs, journalism, international relations, and architecture. Many of these programmes are considered among the most distinctive in Canada, combining academic rigour with practical experience. Carleton’s emphasis on experiential learning is reflected in its co-operative education placements, research opportunities, and industry partnerships, which help students apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.
Carleton graduates benefit from a strong employment record, with 87% securing work in fields related to their studies. The University’s location in Ottawa provides unique access to government agencies, NGOs, and multinational organisations, enhancing opportunities for internships and employment.
Services
Carleton is home to more than 4,500 international students from over 150 countries, contributing to a diverse and inclusive academic community.
The University offers a range of support services tailored to international students, including guidance on immigration, academic advising, and cultural integration. English language support is available for those who require it, and students entering directly from secondary school are guaranteed residence accommodation if they accept their offer by the specified deadline.
Rankings
- 26th in Canada in the QS World University Rankings 2026
Accommodation
Carleton University has 11 residence buildings that are located in the northwest section of the campus and are connected to the University’s tunnel system.
The on-campus residence options at the University have traditional and suite-style housing, with the latter also offering a kitchenette to 4 students living together. For students living on campus, Residence Commons serves as a hub as it has The Caf (the University’s main dining hall), a Starbucks location, Residence Reception Desk and the Abstentions (a convenience store that also functions as the student government for residence students).
Location
Carleton’s campus is nestled where the Rideau Canal meets the Rideau River, in Ottawa. This makes the campus a location where the students and faculty can enjoy the best of both worlds; a vibrant capital city and natural beauty. Ottawa is one of the world’s safest and most livable cities, which is also a tech hub, making students gain access to a variety of employment opportunities with government agencies, international embassies, global companies and NGOs. The campus has 48 buildings, the latest one being the Nicol Building which was inaugurated in 2021.
The nearest airport to the University is the Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport (MSP), which is about 45 minutes from the main campus.
Courses offered at Carleton University
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