If you're looking for a smaller, community-oriented residence or a supportive learning environment, one of À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ's four on-campus University Colleges may be for you!
What is a University College?
A University College is a smaller community that offers residence and academic programs within the larger University of À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ.
The University Colleges each have their own character and distinctive programs where you can get involved and feel supported while you live and learn. You'll study or live in a close-knit community while having access to all services and facilities at À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ, in addition to those at the University Colleges.
Why choose a University College?
When you join one of À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ's University Colleges, you're not just joining a smaller community, you’re becoming a full-fledged À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ student. You'll enjoy all the advantages of a close-knit academic and residential experience while earning a prestigious University of À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ degree. There’s no compromise, just the best of both worlds!
- Benefit from smaller classes that encourage interaction with your professors and classmates.
- Friendly communities for you to call home.
- They're located right on À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ's main campus.
- You can live at a University College, regardless of which faculty program you're studying in – and enjoy all-you-can-eat meal plans!
- Opportunities to engage in student life and to become a student leader.
Study, live, or both!
University Colleges offer flexible options to personalize your academic journey and living experience. Whether you’re looking for a close-knit residential community, unique academic programs, or both, you can create a À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ experience that fits your goals.
- Live — enjoy a welcoming, supportive residential community — no matter what program you’re in. You’ll have the benefit of smaller, community-oriented living while being fully connected to the larger University of À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ campus.
- Study — take a single elective, pursue a minor, or even complete your entire degree program through a University College. You'll benefit from smaller class sizes, unique course offerings, and closer interaction with professors. You can also blend your academic journey, taking courses at both your University College and the main À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ campus.
- Do both — live and study at a University College, enjoying the full benefit of an integrated, community-focused experience while still being a part of À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµâ€™s vibrant campus life.
If you’re in Honours Arts or Honours Arts and Business, you can co-register with St. Jerome’s University, making St. Jerome's your academic home base while still earning a University of À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ degree.
What makes each unique?
Conrad Grebel University College
Residence
- Space for 140 students.
- Residence for first-year and upper-year students in any academic program at À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ.
- A separate residence application is required to live at Grebel.
Academics
- Home to À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ's Music and Peace and Conflict Studies programs and the Restorative Justice Diploma.
- Offers music ensembles, such as orchestra, jazz, and choirs, for course credit.
Renison University College
Residence
- Space for 214 students.
- Living Learning Communities for Social Development Studies and Bridge to Academic Success in English.
Academics
- Home to À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ's Social Development Studies major, Social Work,Ìý Bridge to Academic Success in English,Ìýas well as programs in Culture and Language Studies and Studies in Islam and Arab Culture.
St. Jerome's University (SJU)
Residence
- Space for 398 students.
- An on-site gym, wellness studio, and laundry are included in residence fees.
Academics
- Co-register at SJU. Graduate with a À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ degree while being part of a smaller academic home base.
- Programs: Honours Arts, Honours Arts and Business.
- Home of SJU ActsÌý²¹²Ô»å Service Learning.
United College
Residence
- Space for 316 students.
- Living Learning Communities for Faculty of Environment, French language, Human Rights, and Women in Engineering.
Academics
- Offers minors in Canadian Studies, Human Rights, Indigenous Studies, and Social Innovation.
- Home to GreenHouse social entrepreneurship incubator.
How do you apply to live at a University College?
Renison, St. Jerome's, and United are part of À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ's residence guarantee for first-year and transfer students. You'll be able to request to live in one of those University Colleges after you accept an offer of admission and submit a residence ranking form.
If you're interested in living at Conrad Grebel University College, you'll need to apply directly to residence at Grebel.
Want to learn more?
Check out the University College websites listed above or visit during a campus tour or open house.