Dominican University College

Dominican University College is one of the oldest public university colleges in Canada. With its specialization in philosophy and theology, Dominican University College offers programs at the certificate, undergraduate and graduate levels. The university is devoted to nourishing critical thinking, analysis, teamwork and overall, a unique educational experience. A faculty-to-student ratio of 1:7 allows the university to provide each student with undivided attention and a well-rounded base of knowledge and skills needed for a demanding job market.

Dominican University College, DUC for short, is heir to one of the oldest university models produced by Western culture. Born in the first part of 13th Century, at the same time as the institution of the university itself, the studium generale was a center of intellectual life, specializing most often in philosophy and theology. This model of studium generale was adopted by the Order of Preachers (later known as Dominicans), founded by Domingo de Guzmán in 1215. In Canada, the Order's institutional center of studies was established in Ottawa in 1900.

DUC boasts its star power with the names of the world-famous philosophers Étienne Gilson and Jacques Maritain forever tied to the history of the institution. Thomistic thought (i.e., the legacy of the philosopher Thomas Aquinas) is to date the solid foundation that connects the two faculties, as well as bridges DUC with other Dominican universities in Europe and the US.

DUC is proud of its diverse student body. We enjoy meeting and discussing educational options with students from a variety of faiths, backgrounds, and cultures. Our application process, like our education, is personalized. We consider the entire dossier of our applicants, not just their grades.

Dominican University College is proud of its student association, AECDO, which ensures that each student stays up-to-date with the current events around the campus and the city, and that all its students maintain a healthy and happy academic and life balance.

Social Activities for Students AECDO encourages students, once in a while, to take a breather from the hectic hustle and bustle of studying in order to get to know each other in a more informal setting. Jointly with the Dominican community, AECDO welcomes students to spend some time at the Dominican cottage, socialize in a relaxed atmosphere, enjoy good food and fun, at the heart of nature. Students can take advantage of this social activity at least twice during the academic year.

Sports and Cultural Activities AECDO takes its role of responding to the needs and suggestions of the DUC students seriously. AECDO coordinates visits to museums, theaters, and other cultural venues. Students often get together to go hiking and ice skating in the region. Activities are usually inexpensive or free!

Concerts Given the great acoustics of the building, the Dominican Church is well known for hosting various classical music concerts, often with the participation of DUC students.

Conferences Throughout the academic year, students are encouraged to attend conferences and talks organized by both facutlies. These academic events are hosted and attended by professors, students, and invited speakers, and are a great way to build one’s academic network. For over 22 years, AECDO has organized a student conference for undergraduate and graduate students. Participants from the Ottawa region, as well as from across North America join us for a few days of stimulating conversations.