Ontario Tech University
Signs of innovation are everywhere at Ontario Tech University. The north Oshawa campus reflects the university’s emphasis on technology with more than 80 specialized research laboratories and facilities. Among them is the Automotive Centre of Excellence (ACE), where one of the world’s largest and most sophisticated climatic wind tunnels is being used to develop the first all-Canadian-made zero-emissions car prototype. Shawenjigewining Hall houses tech-enhanced classrooms and research labs, as well as Mukwa’s Den, an Indigenous space where all students can learn more about Indigenous culture. Several downtown Oshawa buildings provide additional classrooms, labs and study space.
The government act that created the university in 2002 required the school to respond to the needs of students and to the market-driven needs of employers. “Employers want career-ready graduates with a passion for and an understanding of the social and ethical implications of technology,” says president Steven Murphy. “Our vibrant and diverse university offers specialized programs delivered through flexible and dynamic learning. In recent years, more than 90 per cent of Ontario Tech undergraduate students have participated in one or more experiential learning experiences.” Oshawa is less than an hour’s GO train ride from Toronto. The university is close to pubs, restaurants, and sport and concert venues in a rapidly growing community.
Campus buzz: Ontario Tech will be hosting a U Sports championship for the first time in fall 2024, when the national men’s soccer tournament takes place on campus.
Quick facts
Tuition (includes compulsory ancillary fees)
$8,371
Minimum Entering Grades
Arts: 70-73% | Science: 70-85% | Commerce: 73-75% | Engineering: 75-85%
Student Body
Undergraduates: Full-time: 9,338 | Part-time: 684
Graduates: Full-time: 756 | Part-time: 174
Housing Facts
Residence Spaces: 1,273 (approx. 700 reserved for first-year students)
Cost of double room: $6,800
Cost of single room: $8,240 to $8,750
Cost of double room with meals: $12,799 to $13,349
Cost of single room with meals: $14,239 to $15,299
Cost of apartment-style: $6,200 to $6,800
Standout programs
Industrial Engineering: Students begin with a foundation year and go on to develop a diverse skill set applicable in several industries. Co-op work terms provide hands-on experience.
Creativity, Digital Arts and Entertainment Industries: This specialization in communication and digital media studies explores how the social environment shapes creativity. Students explore the impact of business, law, politics, policy and new technology, and learn how to create engaging content.
Marine Biology: Students in this program—a specialization within the biological sciences program—complete one semester at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences, where they have access to well-equipped floating labs in one of the world’s most diverse ocean ecosystems.
