
Dominican University College in Ottawa offers specialized undergraduate and graduate programs in philosophy and theology in both English and French. It provides a unique academic environment within the Dominican tradition, with international student fees ranging from EUR 6,000–12,000 annually.
Dominican University College (DUC) is a specialized private Catholic institution in Ottawa, Canada, offering graduate and undergraduate programs exclusively in philosophy and theology within the Dominican intellectual tradition. Bilingual in English and French, it serves students seeking rigorous academic formation in classical and contemporary philosophical and theological thought. Affiliated with Carleton University until 2024, DUC remains a distinctive presence in Canadian Catholic higher education.
Student life at DUC centers on intellectual community: seminars, lectures, liturgical events, and interdisciplinary dialogue between philosophy and theology. The college hosts regular academic conferences and public lectures. Ottawa offers a vibrant multicultural urban environment with museums, Parliament Hill, and the Rideau Canal.
Contact Dominican University College directly for current tuition and fee schedules.
Dominican University College is a private Catholic institution recognized by the Ontario Ministry of Colleges and Universities to confer degrees. It was affiliated with Carleton University from 2012 to 2024.
International students must obtain a study permit from IRCC before arriving. Most college and undergraduate applicants must also include a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) confirming a space under the annual cap; from January 2026, master’s and doctoral students at public institutions are exempt from this requirement. Applicants must show living funds of CAD 22,895 (effective September 2025, for a single student, excluding tuition and travel), and Student Direct Stream applicants hold this amount as a GIC.
Full-time students at designated learning institutions whose permits include work authorization may work up to 24 hours per week off campus during academic terms — a cap in effect since November 2024 that replaced the former 20-hour rule and a temporary 40-hour exception. Students may work unlimited hours during scheduled breaks such as summer and winter holidays. From April 2026, eligible students no longer need a separate co-op work permit for mandatory placements.
Graduates of eligible programs may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) within 180 days of confirmed completion. The PGWP matches program length up to a maximum of three years, and master’s graduates receive a three-year permit regardless of program length. Since November 2024 most applicants must show a recent language test at CLB 7 (university graduates) or CLB 5 (college graduates); degree graduates are exempt from the field-of-study alignment rule that applies to other applicants.
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.


Dominican College of Philosophy and Theology (DSPT) offers several non-degree programs designed to meet diverse student needs. These programs provide opportunities for personal and professional development, as well as a chance to explore further educational pursuits in philosophy and theology. Credits earned in these programs may be transferable to degree programs.


The Certificate of Theological Studies (CTS) is designed for individuals who wish to deepen their understanding of the Catholic theological tradition. This program is suitable for those clarifying their academic or vocational goals without committing to a full degree program. It can also serve as a sabbatical option through the Institute of Salesian Spirituality (ISS). Under the guidance of a faculty advisor, CTS students will choose a program of study, potentially with a concentration, that aligns with their personal interests or prepares them for future degree program applications. Students who later enroll in a DSPT degree program may be able to transfer their certificate coursework.


For international students beginning undergraduate study at the University of Toronto who are first-time entrants from outside Canada. Students must be nominated by their school, then complete the U of T application and scholarship process. Selection recognises exceptional academic achievement and creativity, with a record of leadership and impact at school.
For international students entering their first undergraduate degree at the University of British Columbia (UBC) who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and financial need. Students must be nominated by their school and require financial support to study at UBC; the award is need-based, covering costs the student and family cannot meet.
Open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents entering full-time undergraduate study at Western University's main campus, with a minimum academic average of 90% in Grade 12 U/M courses (or equivalent), a school nomination, a reference letter, a transcript and an essay.
Open to international undergraduate students who hold a valid Canadian study permit and are newly admitted to an English-language undergraduate programme in Arts, Engineering, Health Sciences, Science, Social Sciences, or the Telfer School of Management. A minimum admission average of 80 percent is needed for the Admission Scholarship and 90 percent for the Academic Excellence Scholarship. Students in the French immersion or French-language streams are not eligible.
full fundingOpen to Canadian and international students pursuing a doctoral (PhD) degree at a Canadian university. Candidates must be nominated by the Canadian institution, not yet have started the doctoral program beyond defined limits, and demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership.
For doctoral students undertaking a PhD at a Canadian institution, with an outstanding academic record. Awards are made by Canada's tri-agency (CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC); applicants apply through their university, and eligibility (including for international students) follows the current Canada Graduate Scholarships rules.
Dominican University College offers undergraduate and graduate programs exclusively in philosophy and theology, focusing on the Dominican intellectual tradition. The college is bilingual in English and French.
International graduate students can expect fees in the range of EUR 6,000–12,000 per year, with undergraduate fees being lower. Living costs in Ottawa are estimated between EUR 10,000–12,000 annually.
International applicants typically need an IELTS score of 6.5 overall or a TOEFL iBT score of 90. It is advisable to contact the college directly for the most up-to-date requirements.
Graduate program applicants generally need an honours bachelor's degree or equivalent, and often a background in philosophy or theology. Two academic references and a personal statement are also required.
Student life is centered around an intellectual community with seminars, lectures, and liturgical events. The college also hosts academic conferences and public lectures. Ottawa provides a vibrant urban environment with cultural attractions.