About Ottawa
Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is renowned for its thriving academic community, hosting numerous esteemed universities and colleges with a wide range of educational programs. It is considered an unparalleled destination for higher education in Canada. As the nation’s capital, Ottawa not only offers an exceptional learning environment but also provides countless opportunities for enriching experiences. The city seamlessly combines stunning 20th-century architecture with a diverse culinary scene, creating a captivating modern atmosphere.
Additionally, Ottawa boasts an abundance of national museums and galleries that enable students to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of artistic expression and historical significance that the city has to offer. Beyond its surface charm, Ottawa holds even more profound prospects and adventures waiting to be explored by students seeking personal growth. Ottawa is a fantastic city to pursue your studies for several reasons.
Here are the top 10 reasons to study in Ottawa
Tourist Attraction:
In 2017, Canada celebrated its 150th anniversary as a unified nation with great pride. The capital city of Ottawa hosted an extraordinary year-long series of events known as Ottawa 2017. This remarkable celebration featured a diverse range of activities, festivals, and festivities designed to cater to different interests and ensure there was something for everyone to enjoy. Memorable highlights included the captivating Sky Lounge, the thrilling Red Bull Crashed Ice competition and the prestigious Juno Awards that honored outstanding Canadian musical talent. The significance of Canada’s sesquicentennial year was further underscored by its recognition as the top travel destination in 2017 by renowned travel guide Lonely Planet.
Ideal location:
Located in the southeastern province of Ontario, Canada, Ottawa has a strategic position. It sits on the beautiful banks of the Rideau and Gatineau rivers, bordering Quebec and the United States. This prime location provides residents and visitors with easy access to nearby world-class cities like Montreal, Toronto, and even New York, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an unforgettable urban experience. Beyond its proximity to major metropolitan areas, Ottawa itself offers many enticing attractions and activities. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful weekend retreat at the Toronto Islands or marveling at the breathtaking architectural wonders of Notre Dame Basilica, this vibrant city has something to cater to every preference and interest. From leisurely walks through Central Park to exploring museums brimming with history and culture, Ottawa promises endless possibilities for enjoyment. Its diverse culinary scene allows food enthusiasts to embark on a delightful gastronomic journey where flavors from around the world can be savored.
In summary, Ottawa combines its advantageous location with captivating attractions that appeal to everyone’s taste. With convenient access to renowned cities and an array of engaging experiences within its own borders, this city guarantees an exceptional travel experience filled with fond memories.
Endless Activities:
Ottawa offers a variety of activities year-round, appealing to both summer and winter lovers. In the summer, you can enjoy thrilling experiences like boating on the scenic Ottawa River. Take in the peaceful surroundings as you glide through its calm waters, surrounded by breathtaking views. When winter arrives, the city transforms into a magical wonderland, with the renowned Rideau Canal turning into the world’s longest skating rink. Skating enthusiasts can embark on an exhilarating adventure, gliding effortlessly across the shimmering ice and immersing themselves in its enchanting ambiance.
Safety and Quality of Life:
When selecting a city to study in, the safety of the location is always a top concern. Ottawa, renowned for its safe and welcoming atmosphere, provides a high quality of life. It has gained recognition as one of Canada’s safest and most livable cities, even earning the title of the country’s safest city according to a study by Mainstreet and Postmedia. Alongside its standing in terms of safety, Ottawa is also praised for its friendly ambiance and relaxed pace, setting it apart from other Canadian cities. This unique blend of security, warmth, and laid-back environment makes Ottawa an excellent choice for students seeking a secure and enjoyable educational journey.
Diverse arts and culture scene:
Ottawa is known for its diverse arts and culture scene, offering residents and visitors a wide array of artistic and cultural experiences. The city also provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities surrounded by the beautiful natural landscapes, including the stunning Gatineau Hills.
Canada has one of the best education systems:
Canada’s education system is highly regarded globally for its excellence. It is firmly committed to providing high-quality education and nurturing students’ academic growth.
In a comprehensive study conducted in 2016 by Bav Consulting and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, Ottawa emerged as Canada’s leading hub for education. With its impressive record of offering top-notch education and research opportunities, Ottawa is home to some of the country’s best universities, such as the prestigious University of Ottawa and Carleton University. This accolade further strengthens Canada’s standing as the second-best country for education worldwide, according to the same study. The educational scene in Ottawa thrives with numerous resources and institutions committed to nurturing intellectual development and academic success.
Growing culinary scene:
In recent years, Ottawa’s culinary scene has undergone a remarkable transformation, attracting food enthusiasts from far and wide. This exciting evolution can be attributed to the influx of talented and passionate chefs who are dedicated to showcasing the local ingredients and demonstrating their culinary expertise. While the renowned ByWard Market has always been a haven for restaurant-goers, the gastronomic landscape in Ottawa has expanded beyond this iconic hotspot. Now, vibrant neighborhoods like Westboro, The Glebe, and Elgin Street have become thriving hubs for an array of new and enticing eateries. These additions have truly enriched the city’s culinary tapestry.
The culture:
Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is known for its commitment to inclusivity and cultural diversity. With almost 25% of its population born outside of Canada, Ottawa truly represents a multicultural society. It’s important to note that the city holds bilingual status, recognizing both English and French as official languages. The European culture, including British and French influences
Diversity:
Ottawa is a shining example of a diverse and inclusive city that is proud to embrace multiculturalism as one of its defining traits. Living in Ottawa offers individuals a unique chance to interact with people from all over the world, creating an environment that is vibrant and fosters cross-cultural connections. The city’s strong commitment to multiculturalism
Research opportunities:
Ottawa, Canada’s capital city, is home to several prestigious research institutes and organizations that play a crucial role in advancing knowledge and technology. Notable institutions include the National Research Council of Canada, known for its groundbreaking research initiatives, and the respected Canada Science and Technology Museum, which serves as a center for scientific exploration and discovery. If you have a passion for research and innovation, studying or working in Ottawa offers abundant opportunities.
Career opportunities:
Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, provides numerous job opportunities for students after they graduate. This is because there are many government agencies and private sector companies located here.
Top Universities and Colleges in Ottawa:
In Ottawa, there are numerous universities and colleges offering education in both French and English languages. These institutions are committed to providing excellent education to students, focusing on delivering a comprehensive learning experience. Whether you choose a public university or a private college
Augustine College:
Augustine College, located in Ottawa, Ontario, is a highly regarded private Christian liberal arts institution that offers an encompassing education. It sets itself apart by providing two-semester programs that explore the rich histories of both science and the humanities, encompassing late antiquity, the classical era, and the modern age. Through this emphasis on diverse periods, the college seeks to equip students with a profound comprehension of the development of knowledge and human thought throughout history. One notable aspect that distinguishes Augustine College is its unwavering dedication to preserving its independence and autonomy.
Herzing College:
Herzing College is situated in the eastern part of Ottawa, specifically within St. Laurent Mall. The college is highly regarded for its dedication to providing exceptional education and offers convenient, career-focused programs that foster both academic and professional growth for students. With a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs spanning various disciplines, Herzing College strives to meet the educational needs of a wide array of students. Additionally, the college is known for its affordability, offering low tuition fees that make it an attractive option for international students seeking quality education without a significant financial burden.
Algonquin College:
Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology is known for its inclusive approach to education, maintaining strong connections with prestigious organizations such as the Canadian Office of International Associations, the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association, and Polytechnics Canada. This esteemed institution offers a wide range of academic programs for undergraduate and graduate students. Currently, the university boasts a diverse and dynamic community with a total population of 19,957 individuals. It’s worth noting that this includes a significant number of international students from over 130 countries, totaling more than 4,000 students. This signifies the institution’s commitment to cultivating.
Ottawa Ladies College:
The Ottawa Ladies College is a prestigious educational institution in Ottawa, Canada. It is known for providing high-quality education to women from diverse backgrounds. With a comprehensive range of academic disciplines, the university offers programs from grade 1 to advanced post-secondary levels. The dedicated faculty and rigorous curriculum aim to foster intellectual growth and personal development for students. International students seeking educational opportunities will find the Ottawa Ladies College as one of the top choices in the region.
Willis College:
Willis College is a highly-regarded educational institution in Ottawa that specializes in providing education for international students. They offer a variety of company-led programs and courses focused on business, technology, and healthcare, aiming to prepare students with the specialized knowledge and practical experience necessary to succeed in their chosen fields. One standout feature of Willis College is its dedication to offering affordable education for international students, making it an economical choice compared to other universities in Ottawa. This commitment to affordability ensures that students from diverse backgrounds can access quality education without excessive financial burden.
La Cite College:
La Cité Collège, located in Ottawa, Ontario, is known as the largest French-language university specializing in applied arts and technology in the province. What sets it apart is its wide selection of over 90 post-secondary programs, many of which are exclusive to this institution and not offered anywhere else in Canada. These programs usually last 1 to 3 years and include valuable hands-on internships, providing students with a comprehensive learning experience.
In addition to traditional on-campus courses, La Cité Collège also offers a variety of distance education programs conducted entirely in French. These specialized courses cover diverse fields such as autism and behavioral sciences, human resource management, early childhood education, palliative care, and multimedia webmaster programming. With a commitment to delivering excellent theoretical knowledge alongside practical skills development, La Cité Collège ensures that their students are well-prepared for success.
Top student accommodation options in Ottawa, Canada:
With various housing options available, Ottawa, Canada, provides numerous student accommodation choices. As the capital city, Ottawa offers diverse housing specifically tailored to meet students’ needs. Let’s explore some of the top choices for students in Ottawa.
The University of Ottawa Residences:
The University of Ottawa offers a variety of on-campus housing options to meet the needs and preferences of its students. These include traditional dormitories and modern apartments, providing convenience and comfort. Living on campus not only allows students to be close to their classes but also gives them easy access to academic and social resources, creating a vibrant and inclusive university experience.
Off-campus apartments:
As students search for housing options in Ottawa, they will find a wide selection of off-campus apartment buildings tailored to their needs. These apartments offer an excellent opportunity for students to enjoy increased independence and privacy. They provide a comprehensive solution that caters specifically to the unique requirements of student living.
Homestays: Another accommodation option available for students is participating in a homestay program, where they can live with a local family. Choosing a homestay can be a valuable experience as it allows students to fully immerse themselves in the local culture and provides an excellent opportunity to improve their language skills, specifically English.
Residence inns and hotels:
Residence inns and hotels in Ottawa provide an array of extended stay rates tailored to meet the needs of students seeking short-term or flexible accommodation options. These establishments understand the importance of catering to the unique requirements of students who may require temporary housing for various reasons, such as internships,
When looking for student housing in Ottawa, it’s essential to start the search early because there is high demand, and available options fill up quickly. It’s also crucial to carefully assess your budgetary limitations and prioritize the amenities and services that are essential to you before making a final decision. Considering these factors, you can have a thorough and rewarding experience while searching for the perfect student accommodation in Ottawa.
